Sign this online petition to says STOP! new developments on West Sussex greenfield sites and join the strong, local resistance against the development of 475 new houses on Chatsmore Farm Field. 

We are all facing climate and ecological crises. 

Goring Gap consists of two areas to the west of Worthing. The northern area is Chatsworth Farm Field, a 28 hectare arable field, bisected by Ferring Rife – a stream rich in wildlife and archaeological heritage.

It is overlooked by the scheduled ancient monument – Highdown Hill – home to Bronze age, Anglo-Saxon and Roman settlers.

Worthing Borough has very few greenfield sites left. We have a duty of care to ourselves and the environment we live in to resist the decline in insect species, birds and other wildlife. We must protect and enhance our green spaces which support life and mitigate some of the harmful effects of the Climate Emergency.

Concreting over these spaces stops the soils and vegetation from absorbing climate warming CO2.  These spaces are wildlife havens and green corridors that link the South Downs to the Sea and provide valuable outdoor space to enhance mental well being.

475 new houses on Chatsmore Farm Field will put additional stress on our water provision and infrastructure, an increase in 500+ cars will add to air quality and existing road issues.

If Persimmon is not stopped a precedent is set to allow building on other green spaces in the borough, including the southern Goring Gap,  The Sanctuary, Highdown Vineyard,  and parts of the South Downs.

BUT if we can save Chatsmore Farm we create a different precedent. one which will serve to protect our green spaces for nature and future generations to enjoy.

Goring Gap consists of two areas to the west of Worthing. The northern area is Chatsworth Farm Field, a 28 hectare arable field, bisected by Ferring Rife and the southern area, known as the ‘Goring-Ferring Gap.’

A 2014 comprehensive survey by the Shoreham and District Ornithological Society recorded a total of 194 bird species witnessed at the Goring-Ferring Gap site. Species include; the Glaucous Gull, the Snow Bunting, Waxwings and Woodlarks.