Inspector rejects costs claim after Angmering development appeal

Arun District Council has been told it will not have to cover the developer’s costs following a successful appeal that granted outline permission for up to 190 homes and a community building on farmland in Angmering.

Planning inspector Nick Fagan ruled that no unreasonable behaviour had occurred, rejecting Gleeson Land’s application for a full award of costs.

The appeal overturned the council’s refusal of the scheme, which had prompted significant local opposition, with nearly 1,800 objections submitted. Worthing West MP Dr Beccy Cooper expressed disappointment at the outcome, saying the decision overlooked environmental concerns and the strain on local infrastructure. She noted that the absence of an up-to-date Local Plan had weakened the council’s position and said she would examine whether national planning rules were fit for purpose.

Angmering Parish Council and local campaigners, who raised more than £11,000 to contest the appeal, said they were saddened by the decision but thanked residents for their support. The inspector concluded that while the project would have some adverse effects, it would not cause significant landscape harm, and any increase in traffic would not pose major highway safety issues.