ECE Planning are delighted to have assisted Sussex Housing & Care in gaining planning permission for a new 31 bedroom extension at their existing Oakwood Court care home in Haywards Heath. Planning permission was granted by Mid Sussex District Council Planning Committee after a long running application and extensive previous consultation with Council Officers, surrounding residents, the Town Council and stakeholders. Sussex Housing & Care are a not for profit housing association and the new extension provides a significant opportunity to enhance their existing care facilities for local residents.

The scheme will create new jobs and as well as 31 new bedrooms, includes new communal spaces, lifts and level access, lounge/dining area, a salon and new staff areas for residents. Externally the scheme will vastly improve the enjoyment of the gardens for residents with access improvements to sensory gardens, a new external terrace, landscape and wildlife enhancements. Designed by WWA (West Waddy Archadia) Architects, the building extension will be part 3 storey and part 2 storeys to the rear of the existing facility. It will be sustainable and energy efficient with a fabric first approach ensuring good standards of insulation and photovoltaic panels as a renewable source of energy to help further reduce carbon emissions.

The application was supported by Committee Members despite objections from residents, Town Council and the Local MP.

Planning Director Huw James said,

‘We are incredibly pleased for the client to be granted permission for this much needed extension which will ensure huge improvements to the existing facilities to allow SHC to carry on providing the highest standard of care to its residents.’

Above image courtesy of  WWA – West Waddy Archadia