A developer has submitted plans for hundreds of homes on the edge of a quiet Sussex village.

Cala Homes wants to build 400 homes on green space to the east of Westergate Street in Westergate, near Chichester.

The hybrid application will be seeking outline planning permission for the new homes and full planning permission for the proposed infrastructure from Arun District Council.

If the hybrid application is granted permission, more details of Cala’s proposals will follow in a subsequent reserved matters application.

The homebuilder intends to offer 40 affordable homes.

The Argus: A bird's eye view of the plans for 400 homes in WestergateA bird's eye view of the plans for 400 homes in Westergate (Image: ADC)

Cala said when full details are put forward in the reserved matters application, it will plan for all homes to be equipped with electric vehicle charging points and air source heat pumps – a low carbon heating system.

It said there will also be measures to support wildlife as part of the homes such as bird nesting boxes and hedgehog fencing.

The plans also include new public open space, children’s play areas, and footpaths and cycle paths throughout the site.

It would also bring an access link bridge to the west, restricted to public transport, cyclists and pedestrians until the A29 realignment is complete.

The site is allocated for residential development as part of the Barnham Eastergate Westergate strategic allocation in the Arun local plan.

An online public consultation was held in October 2023 that outlined what the scheme would deliver and give residents the chance to comment on the application at this stage.

Jessica Sparkes, head of planning at Cala, said: “We’re thrilled to submit a hybrid application for our proposed development in Westergate. This is an important and significant proposal for the economic, social and environmental future of the area, which will see major benefits delivered.

“The submission of our plans for these high-quality new homes, in tandem with supporting the delivery of essential highways, community, utilities and green infrastructure, is a great step towards supporting Arun District Council deliver the 1,310 new homes needed in the area each year to ensure housing availability and affordability throughout the county.”