Frequently Asked Questions About LU/72/25/OUT

About the Development

What exactly is being proposed at New Courtwick Lane?

• Use Class E(a): Shops and retail outlets, including food stores.
• Sui Generis: A category for uses that don’t fall into any specific class, like fast food drive-thrus.
• Use Class E(g)(iii): Light industrial use that is compatible with a residential area.
• Use Class B8: Storage or distribution, including warehouses and logistics.

Where exactly is the development site located?

The site is located to the west of New Courtwick Lane in Wick, Littlehampton (BN17 7RZ), near Goldcrest Avenue, Finches Close, and Kingfisher Drive and close to residential areas, including the Kingley Gate development.

Which companies will be occupying the food store and drive-thrus?

No specific occupiers have been confirmed. Mention of brands like McDonald's, Costa, or Aldi is marketing, not fact. Planning permission is granted for land use, not tenants.

Does the application affect any listed buildings?

Yes. The planning notice confirms it 'may affect the setting of a listed building' nearby, which have legal protection due to their historic value.

Objection Process

When is the deadline to object?

The deadline to submit objections is Friday, 30 May 2025. Late submissions may not be considered.

Who can object to this planning application?

Anyone can object, though those directly impacted (local residents, road users, etc.) carry more weight.

What are valid grounds for objection?

What are NOT valid grounds for objection?

How do I submit my comment?

Should I use a template objection letter or write my own?

A personalised objection is most effective. Templates can be a starting point, but it’s better to add your own views.

Impact Concerns

What traffic impact would this development have?

It will create significant additional traffic, especially due to drive-thrus and the nearby Minster Court development. Cumulative congestion and safety risks are key concerns.

Would the drive-thrus be open late at night?

Likely. Many drive-thrus operate late or 24/7, creating noise, light and disturbance near homes.

How would this affect local schools?

White Meadows and Lyminster Primary Schools are nearby. Concerns include traffic safety, fast food proximity to schools, and pollution.

Isn't some development inevitable on this site?

Yes — but the issue is with the **type and scale**. This development is not suited to the area. You can read more about alternative ideas on our Alternative Proposals page.

Alternative Proposals

What alternative would be better for this site?

Residential or mixed-use with sustainable, lower-impact jobs and integration with local housing would be more appropriate. Learn more on our Alternative Proposals page.

Has the council considered other uses for this site?

This private proposal is what the council is required to assess. Strong objections can push for better options.

Campaign Information

Who is organizing this campaign?

Local residents with no political or commercial links. Our aim is a more appropriate development for the community.

How can I get involved beyond submitting an objection?

• Share our website on social media and with neighbours
• Attend local council meetings where the application is discussed
• Display a poster in your window (downloadable from our website)
• Contact your local councillors to express your concerns
• Join our Facebook group
• Follow our campaign on Instagram

Where can I find out more information?

• Visit our Sources page for references and evidence.
• Check the planning application at Arun District Council. Enter reference LU/72/25/OUT into the search box.
• Contact us if you'd like to get in touch directly.
• Join our Facebook group
• Follow us on Instagram

What are valid grounds for objection?

• Traffic and highway safety – concerns about increased traffic, inadequate parking, or access issues.
• Noise and disturbance – potential for increased noise, odors, or general disruption.
• Loss of privacy or overshadowing – impact on neighboring properties’ privacy or sunlight.
• Visual impact and design – effect on the character or appearance of the area.
• Effect on listed buildings or conservation areas – impact on heritage assets.
• Environmental impacts – concerns about pollution, biodiversity loss, or tree removal.
• Retail impact on town centers – harm to existing shopping areas and services.
• Cumulative impact with other developments – combined effects of nearby proposals.
• Conflict with local and national planning policies – non-compliance with plans and guidance.

What are NOT valid grounds for objection?

• Property value impacts – potential decrease in house prices.
• Loss of private views – obstruction of personal views or scenery.
• Competition with existing businesses – commercial rivalry is not a planning issue.
• The developer’s character, history, or motives – personal opinions are not considered.
• Construction disturbance – temporary building works inconvenience.
• Who might use the development – speculation about future occupants.
• Suspicion about future changes of use – concerns not based on the current application.

For more detailed information, see Arun District Council’s planning comment guidance.

You can submit your comment in several ways. We recommend starting with our How to Object page which includes templates and guidance. You can also:

• Comment online using Arun District Council's planning portal
• Email planning@arun.gov.uk (quote LU/72/25/OUT in the subject line)
• Write to: Planning Department, Arun District Council, Maltravers Road, Littlehampton, BN17 5LF