Worthing Chatsmore Farm Public Inquiry Moved Online

A public inquiry into the proposed development of 475 homes at Chatsmore Farm in Worthing has been moved online, sparking frustration among local residents. The changes affected those planning to speak in person at the hearings, which focused on the controversial project in Goring Gap.

One resident, Will Lefebve, 78, who has lived in nearby Ferring for over two decades, was scheduled to speak at the inquiry but was unable to do so due to the switch to a virtual format. Lefebve expressed disappointment, telling the Brighton Argus he was unprepared to participate online and criticised the decision as a failure to consider those uncomfortable with technology.

A petition against the development has garnered nearly 2,000 signatures, with locals citing concerns about congestion and the loss of green space.

In response, a spokesperson for the Planning Inspectorate clarified that the final two days of the inquiry were planned as virtual sessions to handle closing submissions and planning conditions. They added that the public had been given the opportunity to speak face-to-face during the earlier stages of the two-week inquiry.