A FIELD next to Rodborough College, Milford, could be the site for 10 affordable homes if outline plans are approved.

The 3.2-acre site, part of which is used for horses with associated stabling, has an existing access from the A283 Petworth Road.

The scheme proposes two one-bed flats, six 2-bed houses and two, three-bedroom houses in a mix of detached, semi-detached and terraced housing.

In the supporting design and access statement, the applicant Nicola James (Milford), notes according to the National Planning Policy Framework, greenfield sites do not constitute inappropriate development if they are for limited affordable housing for local community needs.

“It is clear from Waverley Borough Council’s emerging plan that in order to meet the council’s objectively assessed needs (OAN) it will be necessary to release greenfield sites on the edge of settlements,” the document states.

“In addition, the council has also confirmed it will be necessary to remove a number of settlements from the Green Belt in order to meet its OAN.

“A neighbourhood plan for the Witley area, including the site, is currently in the early stages of production.

“In August/September this year, Waverley have been consulting the public on the proposed development of 380 new houses over the next 10 years in the Witley Parish area.

“The proposed amount, layout and mix of housing will deliver affordable housing, for which there is a known demand in the village and which will make a worthwhile contribution toward the ever-growing social housing require- ment of this area and the district.

“A mix of house types and sizes is proposed to provide for starter homes and families.

“The proposed residential development is supported by the objectives of national planning policy, and due weight should also be given when determining this application to the council’s deficiency in available and deliverable housing land, to which the approval of this application could assist in the prompt delivery of much needed affordable housing.”