This project is potentially a work of major importance to the locality of Bramber, Steyning, Shoreham-by-Sea and a number of small hamlets within a five mile radius of the site. It also has potentially far reaching consequences for the economy, infrastructure and culture of the region, with the opportunity to extend that influence out into the wider world of international architecture and culture.

It is imperative therefore, that in building this new mixed community, a coherent and practical critical path is agreed and adhered to across all elements of the project, from initial finance to final opening.

An initial feasibility study will be required by an independent consultancy (or consultants) in order to ensure compliance with all relevant planning requirements and the needs of the many key stakeholders.

The clearing of the site with consequential, but necessary, ground works, will be have to be undertaken in strict conformity to all relevant Health and Safety Regulations.

To minimise the impact on the environment and the local populace, and to make the development more self-funding from receipts from sales and retailers, the site will be developed in a series of iterative stages. Construction vehicles will require access, therefore an initial road system will need to be set up to allow all materials and infrastructure to be successfully integrated. The movement of vehicles on and off the site could cause chalk slurry to contaminate the public highway, to mitigate this it is proposed that we adopt the standard precautions of deploying “Banksmen” in the site itself, plus street cleaning vehicles as necessary on the A283 and adjoining roads.

Piling and platforms will form the basis from which assembly will commence. It is possible that modular assemblies could be designed. This technology will limit the site downtime, with specific specialist teams at specific times working on site. Once the first stage is complete, community space and retail development, public areas and phase two dwelling construction will follow.

Stage development will consist of synchronised pocket construction building standard, premium, and superior dwellings concurrently.

The sensitivity of the chalk pit site, in its location, size, re-purposing and commensurate legacy, is undeniable, and the scale of the opportunity in the region is unique.

But even the best plans mean nothing if they are uninvestable or undeliverable.

The South Down Project have established a cost for funding a 
Special Purpose Vehicle to buy the land and then develop our scheme up to Outline Planning.

All these costs have been approved by our investors, who are keen
 to proceed, and negotiations are now underway to purchase the land, and get on with the planning process.

We have also established notional costs for the new builds and landscaping, which we will make available as soon as it is reasonable to do so.

In essence: The South Down Project is poised to deliver one of the most innovative and regenerative projects in the region, and our investors are also ready and waiting to make it happen.

For an assessment of the risks of this project, please click here.