Moonshine Meadow, Cuckfield Road, Ansty, Haywards Heath, West Sussex, RH17 5AL

Main issues, as the Inspector framed them

• Whether the proposed development would be in a suitable location, having regard to the local development strategy
• The effect of the proposed development on the character and appearance of the area, with particular regard to the health and longevity of trees
• The effect of the proposed development on protected species, with particular regard to the long-term conservation status of Great Crested Newts
• Whether other material considerations, including the need for and supply of pitches, outweighs any harm identified such as to justify the development

What decided it

The proposal's failure to demonstrate that great crested newts would not be harmed, which the Inspector found would render a grant of permission unlawful under the Habitats Regulations.

the substantial benefit of the proposal's contribution to the shortfall in pitch supply, together with moderate socio-economic and biodiversity benefits, was significantly and demonstrably outweighed by harms to protected species, trees, and the unsuitability of the location