Brighton MP urges council to save greenfield site from housing

Brighton Kemptown MP Simon Kirby has written to Brighton and Hove City Council, urging planners to protect Meadow Vale in Ovingdean.

He wants officials to rule out development at the greenfield site as part of the council’s current review of urban fringe sites being considered by for development.

Mr Kirby said: “I recently spoke at the public meeting organised by local people and it was abundantly clear that residents share my belief that development at this site is completely inappropriate.

“I am therefore calling on Brighton and Hove City Council to listen to local people and rule out development at Meadow Vale.”

The Conservative MP added: “The council should be looking at brownfield sites, infill sites and other more appropriate sites across the city before threatening areas like Meadow Vale.”

The council is currently considering a list of 49 urban fringe sites across Brighton and Hove.

Surrey developer Lightwood Property wants to build 112 homes on the nine-acre Meadow Vale site.

Mr Kirby said: “I will continue to stand alongside local residents in opposing development at this site, which is completely inappropriate for a whole host of reasons.

“It is important the city council listens to the strong message being sent by the community who want to see this important piece of land safeguarded.

“It is within the power of the council to make it very clear that Meadow Vale is an inappropriate site for development.”