Bantham Farm, London Road, Hurst Green, East Sussex, TN19 7QY

Main issues, as the Inspector framed them

• Appeal A: whether the appeal site is a suitable location for a development of the type now proposed, having regard to the relevant planning policies relating to the location of new housing and its accessibility by sustainable modes of transport; the effects of the development on the character and appearance of the High Weald National Landscape; and whether the proposed new dwelling would be able to provide satisfactory external amenity space for its future occupants.
• Appeal B: the effects of the development on the character and quality of the High Weald National Landscape; and whether the development would accord with relevant planning policies which seek to limit development in the countryside to that which is necessary.

What decided it

Appeal A: the isolated location in open countryside far from any settlement, combined with poor accessibility by sustainable transport modes, conflicts with fundamental development plan and NPPF policies directing housing to sustainable locations, and this conflict is not outweighed by housing supply shortfall or other benefits. Appeal B: the building causes no discernible impact on the High Weald National Landscape and has been shown to be reasonably necessary for the site's management needs, in accordance with Policy RA3.

Appeal A: the benefits of housing delivery, ecological enhancements and carbon negativity were outweighed by the conflict with development plan policies and key NPPF policies on sustainable locations; the tilted balance did not apply because the proposal conflicts with NPPF paragraphs 84 and 110. Appeal B: no balancing exercise required as the proposal accords with the development plan and causes no material harm.