We need your help again to STOP THIS DEVELOPMENT by Saturday evening.
Thank you all so much for your help with this local wildlife site so far.
We’re delighted to announce that Bewl Water has been accepted as a candidate as a Special Protection Area (SPA) on account of its importance as a refuge for wildlife, especially red and amber listed Gulls. This gives the site the highest level of protection in planning.
The risk however is that spades may be in the ground before the designation process is complete.
An almost identical planning proposal was refused at council and appeal only last year yet the developer has submitted another application.
The main reasons for the inspectorate’s refusal to give planning have not been dealt with. The new application does not even mention the Gull Roost. Independent research suggests that even low-level light disturbance can cause the Roost to be abandoned and there are no nearby alternative sites. Bewl has never had overnight accommodation during the time the Gulls roost and so the risk comes from holiday makers (fairly) walking by the water at night or enjoying the new hot tubs.
Please object and stop developers from ruining this beautiful site by emailing planning@wealden.gov.uk You must give your name, the reference WD/2025/1539/MAJ, your address and whether you object, support or comment.
Alternatively visit Planning Register - Wealden District Council and search for application WD/2025/1539/MAJ then ‘Comment on this application’.
The Friends of Bewl Waters' objections are summarised here
· the peace and tranquillity of the National Landscape (formerly called AONB) must be protected ,
· light and noise pollution would be at a dangerous level, particularly because of the endangered birds roosting next to the building and the site being considered a SPA,
· there are better and more suitable sites elsewhere for overnight tourist units,
· the design is out of character for the area
· there are already raw sewage discharges into Bewl Water and the sewage arrangements lack sufficient information according to Southern Water,
. this is clearly a further step to create a holiday village at the site.
See the leaflet from the Friends of Bewl Water for more information :