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FAQs

Introducing Brookleigh’s New 38 and ‘38 Flex’ Bus Services

Brookleigh residents will now benefit from improved public transport with the introduction of the new 38 and '38 Flex' bus services, starting from Monday, 11th May 2026.

Funded by Homes England and operated by Compass Travel, the services have been developed to support the growing community and make travel around Burgess Hill more convenient, including easy access to the Town Centre and Railway Station. Read on for a summary of what you need to know.

This exciting progress was made possible by strong partnership work, as with everything growing here at Brookleigh. Homes England has worked closely with West Sussex County Council (WSCC), providing the initial funding to start the service, along with ongoing funding for the wider Public Transport Strategy.

Compass Travel: Moving residents in the right direction

Compass Travel has operated bus services in Burgess Hill for many years, meaning they know the area and local transport infrastructure well. They have lots of experience with digital demand-responsive transport (DDRT), which is the on-demand, flexible bus service for travel at off-peak times that works alongside the timetabled peak time service.

Easy travel, when you need it. You'll find out more below about why this is a great fit for Brookleigh.

Two bus services to meet residents' needs

The key focus throughout planning and procurement was to meet the needs of the community. Two distinct services are in place to achieve this

The peak time 38 Bus Service

Initially, the bus service will be a 'hail & ride' service while works are still planned for the road surfaces and bus stop areas.

During peak times, Monday to Saturday, the 38 Service runs as a fixed, timetabled schedule. The buses operate up to every 30 minutes and serve all stops along the route, meaning residents have easy and convenient access to Burgess Hill Town Centre, the Railway Station and other local destinations.

In addition, the route includes a dedicated AM and PM timetabled School Service to The Triangle, serving St Paul's Catholic College.

How do I travel, and do I need to book?

We want to make travel as easy as possible.

Adult single fares are £2.40 (return £4.60), with contactless or cash payment accepted as normal when you get on the bus. In addition to the Compass Travel website, the bus service is supported by the Compass Travel app, where you can conveniently check the full timetable, costs (including concessions and travel passes), and other service information.

The app is downloadable at: www.compass-travel.co.uk/download-our-app

Compass Travel Service 38 Timetable – from Monday 11th May 2026

The off-peak '38 Flex' Service

During off-peak hours, including Sundays and Public Holidays, demand for any bus service varies. But, as we know, people still need to travel and stay connected!

At these times, the service switches to the '38 Flex' model, allowing residents to book journeys to and from anywhere within the defined Burgess Hill zone, including all stops served by the timetabled service. This service is a more comprehensive replacement of the previous 'flexibus' service.

This flexible approach helps support a wider range of journeys, particularly for those travelling at quieter times of day or to destinations not covered by the fixed route.

How do I book?

Again, ease and flexibility of travel are key. Passengers who used the old 'flexibus' service will be used to the idea of booking local travel when they need it.

All users will need to download the 'Brookleigh 38 Flex' app. This app is dedicated to booking and managing journeys on the '38 Flex' Service (separate from the Compass Travel app) and is downloadable from the iPhone or Android stores.

38 Flex’ Service with timetabled and school routes overlaid

Connecting a growing neighbourhood

As Brookleigh continues to grow, the introduction of the 38 and '38 Flex' Service is making everyday travel more accessible – just as it should be.

The combination of fixed and flexible travel options aims to provide convenient, reliable choices throughout the week. As a resident, whether you're travelling for work, school, shopping or leisure, your base at Brookleigh connects you strongly to Burgess Hill and beyond.

Find out more

Compass Travel service information: www.compass-travel.co.uk
Compass Travel app: www.compass-travel.co.uk/download-our-app
Compass Travel contact: email (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.) or phone (01903 690025)
'Brookleigh 38 Flex' app: available on iPhone and Android stores

Martlets Shopping Centre Redevelopment Reaches Milestone

Mid Sussex District Council (MSDC) has signed a conditional agreement to form a partnership with owners of the Martlets Shopping Centre in Burgess Hill, NewRiver Reit plc (NRR).

The agreement means that if key conditions are satisfied, the redevelopment will commence during the summer of 2026.

This agreement has been achieved in the face of tough commercial conditions in the construction and retail markets.

For further information and updates visit www.midsussex.gov.uk

Have your say via the public engagement on the Victoria Business Park access and connectivity Public Engagement.

From Friday 24th October 2025 to 28 November, West Sussex County Council is holding a period of public engagement where you will have a chance to submit your views on the current designs and influence the future of active travel in Burgess Hill.

Victoria Business Park access and connectivity Public Engagement | Your Voice West Sussex

Further information on the programme can be found here:

Burgess Hill Place and Connectivity Scheme Phase One | Your Voice West Sussex

A win for Burgess Hill: new community sports centre now open

A new state-of-the-art outdoor sporting facility is now open in Burgess Hill.

Officially named The Arc and developed in partnership with Homes England, the newly developed centre represents an investment in health, wellbeing and community connection in Burgess Hill. It will provide accessible, high-quality spaces for sport and recreation for communities and sport clubs both in the local area, and more widely across Mid Sussex.

The Arc supports development opportunities for young people and adults by providing inclusive facilities for

A floodlit 3G football pitch
An artificial grass rugby pitch
A modern changing facility
Three junior natural turf football pitches
A full-sized natural turf football pitch
An artificial cricket wicket with a turf outfield

Leader of the Council, Councillor Robert Eggleston, said "The Arc is a fantastic addition to Burgess Hill and a testament to what can be achieved through strong partnerships and a commitment to community development.

"The new sporting facility has been designed by the local community for the local community, ensuring it becomes a valued and integral part of local life. We're excited to see it become a hub for sport, health, wellbeing and connection."

Located on an 8.6-hectare site, The Arc is part of the Brookleigh development, which is providing 3,500 homes (30% affordable), public spaces, infrastructure and community facilities in Mid Sussex.

Neil Miller, Head of Development (South) at Homes England, said, "Brookleigh is providing a sustainable new community in Mid Sussex, and The Arc plays an important role in this, we look forward to seeing it enjoyed by the local community."

The outdoor sporting facility has been funded in part through developer contributions (known as Section 106) ensuring that the new community centre is directly supported by local development, building meaningful connections with the community and a sense of shared ownership from the very beginning.

It has also been developed through extensive consultation with the local sporting community, Sport England and National Sporting Governing Bodies.

The Arc has already received 22 different club bookings from September to the end of April. Bookings have been placed by a variety of clubs including Burgess Hill Football Club and Burgess Hill Rugby Football Club, who have confirmed fixtures at the new facility, which will remain open year-round.

The Arc will be operated by leading social enterprise Places Leisure, who also manage three other leisure facilities in the district.

To find out more or to book the facility, visit https://www.placesleisure.org/centres/the-arc/.

FIRST SECTION OF KEY LINK ROAD OPENS AT BROOKLEIGH, BURGESS HILL

The first section of the Western Link Road at Brookleigh, known locally as West End Farm Avenue, is now open West End Farm Avenue, a key new transport connection for Brookleigh's new residents, the wider community and local businesses across Burgess Hill and beyond, has opened connecting the A2300 in the north and Jane Murray Way in the south. Jackson Civil Engineering has carried out these works, completing their first of three phases of works on this new connection at Brookleigh.

The new route will provide access to homes at Brookleigh and future community facilities such as the Arc Centre for Outdoor Sports, opening in Autumn this year. The road incorporates a shared path for pedestrians and cyclists which will tie into the wider network of footways and cycleways being delivered as part of the Brookleigh scheme. It will form part of a longer spine road stretching east to west across Brookleigh with new roundabouts and junctions at the intersections with the existing highways. Head of Development for Homes England, Neil Miller, said: "Alongside building new homes, delivering infrastructure to support the growing and existing community is key to our approach at Brookleigh. West End Farm Avenue will be a crucial new link for residents, leisure users, and local businesses, improving connectivity as Brookleigh is being built."

Mid Sussex District Council Leader, Cllr Robert Eggleston said:

"The Council has been working closely with Homes England to ensure the early delivery of essential infrastructure alongside new homes at Brookleigh. This proactive approach helps create a well-connected, inclusive community from the outset.

"The road design includes a shared path for pedestrians and cyclists on both sides, encouraging active travel and making it easier for people to move around safely and sustainably. By investing in infrastructure early, we're not just building homes—we're laying the foundations for a vibrant, accessible neighbourhood where people can thrive."

Burgess Hill Business Parks Association CEO Richard Cox highlighted the vital connectivity benefits that this will bring for local businesses:

"Burgess Hill Business Parks Association (BHBPA) welcomes this new addition to the road infrastructure surrounding the town. Vehicles destined for the Victoria Business Park will now be able to access Jane Murray Way directly from the link to the A2300 which will reduce journey times for work and importantly increase the efficiency of logistics operations into and out of our main business park. The town benefits greatly from its proximity to the A23, making it an attractive proposition for business. This will greatly improve that connectivity."

As well as the connectivity benefits, the road will improve safety with the new roundabout helping separate residential and school traffic from freight traffic.

Alongside the opening of this section of road, Jackson Civil Engineering has recently submitted planning applications for phases two and three of the Western Bridge and Link Road. These proposals include works to provide a new link road, bridge, pedestrian and cycle infrastructure between the newly constructed A2300 Roundabout and the proposed new central road through Brookleigh. These applications are available to view on the MSDC Planning Portal here by searching for the references: DM/25/1128 and DM/25/0109.

Once complete, Homes England's flagship Brookleigh development, which lies to the north of Burgess Hill, will provide 3,500 homes (with 30% affordable housing), new schools, a new employment hub, public parks, and three neighbourhood centres. Good progress is being made on site with both Bellway and Vistry having welcomed their first residents at their Fallow Wood View and Oakhurst sites. For more information and all the latest updates, please visit the Brookleigh project website: www.burgesshill.net/housing/brookleigh and Facebook page: www.facebook.com/Brookleigh.BH/

Engaging People for Biodiversity Net Gain

The Institute of Development Studies and Natural England have researched opportunities for people's engagement to support the delivery of Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) in the housebuilding sector. As part of this Brookleigh featured as a case study in the research, the full report can be found here:

Second letting at Panattoni Park

Panattoni, the world's largest privately owned industrial developer, has announced the letting of a 22,500 sq ft unit at Panattoni Park Burgess Hill to Austin Racing.

Austin Racing has signed a 10-year lease for the facility, and will use the space to enhance the delivery of motorcycle and electric go kart parts in the Southeast and beyond. This will help expand Austin Racing's operations, streamline production and distribution, and support the growing demand for its products. It will also create job opportunities in the region, driving the economic growth of Burgess Hill and the surrounding areas.

The specialist motorcycle exhaust and electric go kart chassis manufacturer was founded in 2015 and is the first company worldwide to offer handmade Grand Prix F1 technology inconel exhaust systems to bike race teams as well as retail customers.

Panattoni Park Burgess Hill, launched last summer as a speculative development, is a mid-box last-mile logistics park. As part of Panattoni's commitment to sustainability, the park offers state-of-the-art sustainable features, advanced energy performance and extensive warranties, with ratings of BREEAM Excellent and EPC A.

The park contains a flexible range of 12 available units, with sizes from 8,142 sq ft to 403,708 sq ft, providing modern, high-specification facilities, and its location, just off the A23, and in close proximity to the M23, Gatwick Airport, and Brighton, allows quick access to communities across West and East Sussex.

David McGougan, Development Director at Panattoni, said: "Austin Racing's reputation as a leading manufacturer for F1 exhaust parts and commitment to individually produced, handmade products makes the company an excellent addition to the Park. This letting, following EMED's decision to base its regional headquarters at Panattoni Park Burgess Hill, highlights the site's growing reputation as a leading destination in the Southeast for businesses seeking strategically-located, high-quality, sustainable spaces. The lettings at Panattoni Park Burgess Hill demonstrate our confidence in the demand for Grade-A mid-box opportunities in undersupplied locations."

Richard Austin, Owner & Managing Director at Austin Racing, said: "The opening of our new facility in Panattoni Park Burgess Hill will allow us to streamline the distribution of our exhaust systems and chassis, continue manufacturing cutting-edge motorcycle and electric go kart parts and create 20 jobs. The quality and design of Panattoni's development and its strategic location has allowed us to create our own state-of-the art-fully electric go karting track, not just for our extensive in-house testing purposes but more excitingly allowing the public to experience this amazing facility. We are pleased to have worked with Panattoni and excited to get set up in the brand-new unit."

Austin Racing's tenancy demonstrates growing demand at the park, following EMED Group, an established healthcare logistics provider, relocating from its head office in Horley to a 35,000 sq ft unit in Panattoni Park Burgess Hill last month.

Jon Mawer, Head of Operations for Sussex at EMED Group, said: "We are thrilled to establish our new regional headquarters at Panattoni Park Burgess Hill. This strategic location will play a key role in supporting the successful delivery of our Patient Transport Service for NHS Sussex, ensuring that EMED Group can provide safe, reliable and efficient care for patients and communities across the region. The state-of-the-art facilities at Panattoni Park reflect our commitment to innovation and sustainability as we look ahead to the future of patient transport in the area."

For more information on the remaining units at the park please visit: www.panattoni.co.uk/burgesshill

First letting at Panattoni Park

Panattoni, the largest logistics real estate developer in the UK and Europe, has secured the first letting at its 458,000 sq ft mid-box, last-mile logistics park at Burgess Hill, south of London.

EMED Group, an established healthcare logistics provider, has signed a 10-year lease for 35,000 sq ft of space.

The facility offers sustainable features, advanced energy performance and extensive warranties, the park has been developed with a strong focus on sustainability, built to a BREEAM sustainability rating of 'Excellent' and an EPC rating of 'A'.

Panattoni Park Burgess Hill is a speculative development, which is now available to occupy, offering a flexible range of unit sizes from 8,142 sq ft to 147,408 sq ft in single units. The park provides modern, high-specification facilities designed to meet the needs of businesses seeking sustainable and efficient industrial and warehouse space. It is located on a 22-acre site, fronting the A2300 dual carriageway and provides fast access to the A23/M23, Gatwick Airport, Brighton and the wider south coast markets, and is adjacent to facilities occupied by DPD and Roche.

David McGougan, Development Director at Panattoni, said: "We identified a significant gap in the market for mid-box units, particularly in the 20,000 to 150,000 sq ft range. The response has been tremendous, with high levels of interest from occupiers for these speculative units. It's evident that there is a critical undersupply of high-quality industrial space in the region.

"Our business model focuses on acquiring sites in areas with limited stock to provide tenants with opportunities to enhance their operations. Demand remains particularly strong for mid box distribution units that enable occupiers to hit their own ESG targets while delivering a high base specification including excellent eaves heights and dedicated parking and yard space".

Letting agents at Panattoni Park Burgess Hill are DTRE, Lambert Smith Hampton and SHW; Vail Williams advised EMED Group.

https://panattoni.co.uk/panattoni-agrees-letting-at-burgess-hill-mid-box-development-to-healthcare-logistics-provider/

Centre for Outdoor Sport update

You can find out all the latest news and development updates on the Centre for Outdoor Sport via Mid Sussex District Council's Community Engagement Hub. Simply register for updates via the project page.

Northern Arc update on site progress (October 2021)

Please find our latest site update for the Northern Arc here.

An image showing the resurfaced A2300 roundabout.

John Sisk & Son

John Sisk & Son will build the Eastern Bridge and Link Road which will join Freeks Lane to Isaacs Lane.

Since the previous update, Sisk have completed their site set up and constructed a site access road and entrance. The compound has been tarmacked and white-lined.

Earthworks contractor M O'Brien have started on site, helping to prepare the ground for construction.

Sisk have carried out further trial holes to analyse the composition and structure of the soil and confirm locations of utility services like gas and water pipes. Trial holes were completed on Isaac's Lane with a vacuum excavator.

Sisk have had a site safety day and have also taken part in a career's assembly at Burgess Hill Academy alongside representatives from Jacksons & Countryside.

An image showing a yellow digger on grassland at the Sisk site.

Bellway

Bellway are the latest developer to join the Northern Arc. They will build 249 homes to the east of the site and develop some public open spaces including the Lowlands Farm extension to the Bedelands Nature Reserve.

Following public consultation over the summer and continued positive negotiations with Mid Sussex District Council about the details of the proposed development, it is expected that the reserved matters application will be submitted to the Council towards the end of October/early November 2021.

A street scene image of housing at the proposed Bellway site.

Countryside

Countryside Properties are building 460 homes at the Northern Arc, over 50% of them as affordable housing.

Since the previous update, Countryside have opened the children's playground on Maple Drive for the local community to enjoy. The welcome 2,700sqm recreation area includes an activity area, play equipment, a Multi-Use Games Area, seating and landscaping. The playground features include swings, a trampoline, zip wire, full basketball court and a timber climbing frame with a surrounding turfed landscape lawn.

Apartment blocks 1 - 4 have been built with blocks 1 - 3 roof tiling completed and the internal works soon due to begin. Timber frames for several housing plots have also been erected and Phase 2 Piling matts are currently being installed.

Work to the culvert bridge has enabled it to open to site construction traffic. Landscaping and planting will follow over the coming months to re-establish the course of Worlds End Stream. The site compound will soon be moved to phase 2 and 3 to the north of the site.

An image showing a ribbon being cut for the opening of the play area on Maple Drive.

Project background FAQs

Latest Questions

1. Why is Brookleigh being developed?

The land that makes up Brookleigh was allocated in the Mid Sussex District Plan (adopted March 2018) as a strategic mixed use allocation. It is part of the broader Burgess Hill Growth Programme. In October 2019, outline planning consent was granted (DM/18/5114). The planning application can be accessed on Mid Sussex District Council's planning register

2. How is the scheme being funded?

3. Who is delivering the scheme and who is Homes England?

Launched in early 2018, Homes England is the Government's national housing agency, set up as one of the key steps towards delivering new homes in the UK. We will seek development partners to work with us to bring forward the scheme, the first of which is Countryside Properties.

4. Who is leading the regeneration of Burgess Hill?

NewRiver are leading on the regeneration of the town centre. There are also a number of other developers working on further regeneration projects around the town, these include Homes England, Glenbeigh, Persimmon and Croudace. Mid Sussex District Council as the local planning authority has the central role to play in each of the regeneration projects in Burgess Hill.

Planning Process FAQs

Latest Questions

1. Why is Brookleigh being developed?

2. How is the scheme being funded?

Central Government has provided significant funding to allow for the acquisition of the land as well as to progress the planning applications and Infrastructure Delivery Plan.

Due to the strategic importance of the site for the district, Brookleigh is supported by Mid Sussex District Council and the Coast to Capital Local Enterprise Partnership. Jointly, the two bodies have contributed c. £27.6m for sustainable transport improvements and dualling of the A2300 link to the Northern Arc development area.

Over the next three years, Homes England will invest c. £41 million in new infrastructure at Brookleigh.

3. Who is delivering the scheme and who is Homes England?

4. How have you involved the local community?

In addition to the numerous public consultations undertaken by local councils to shape the development plans for Burgess Hill and wider Mid Sussex Borough, each housing scheme will see a public consultation to allow the public to influence the plans and provide feedback. Mid Sussex District Council also undertakes a statutory consultation once each planning application is submitted, providing a further opportunity to provide feedback.

5. What is the Brookleigh site?

Brookleigh has been identified by Burgess Hill Town Council and Mid Sussex District Council as a strategic site suitable for up to 3,500 new homes and employment provision, formal and informal recreational space, education and associated services and infrastructure.

6. Who is leading the regeneration of Burgess Hill

Martlets Hall FAQs

Latest Questions

1. Why is Martlets Hall being closed?

Marlets Hall is being closed to allow for the redevelopment of Burgess Hill Town Centre, by NewRiver. Once complete the new town centre will boast:

New leisure and recreational facilities
Refurbished car parks
A new Cineworld
Newly built flats and hotels
New employment opportunities so people can work locally
A variety of new and affordable eating establishments

2. When will the Martlets Hall close?

Notice has formally been served and NewRiver are working with Places for People Leisure to identify an appropriate time for closure.

3. WIll the Martlets Hall be replaced?

Between February and March 2018, local residents were asked to take part in a council-led vote by Burgess Hill Town Council (BHTC) on whether they supported funding the new venue, which was dependent on securing a £5 million loan. With a narrow majority of residents rejecting the increase in council tax to fund the new venue, BHTC is currently reviewing other ways to deliver the project over a longer timeframe.

4. Where will all the groups who currently use it go?

MSDC suggested alternate venues to all groups who used Martlets Hall

5. Who can I talk to about relocating to an alternate venue?

Glen Wilkinson, the Leisure Partnership Officer at Mid Sussex District Council, will be happy to help groups identify and move to a new home. You can contact him via email on This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or use the website feedback form to find out further information.

6. Didn't a consultant working on behalf of BHTC, agree there is a need for an art/cultural venue in Burgess Hill?

The Town Council commissioned a report that concluded that there could be sufficient demand for a small venue but further work needed to be done, in particular to establish viability. It would be up to BHTC to progress with the findings of any report they have commissioned.

7. If we want to attract people to the town centre wouldn't it be best to have an entertainment venue?

We feel that the regenerated town centre, complete with new anchor tenants in the shopping centre, a new cinema and new eating establishments will attract many more visitors than the current town centre.

8. How come Haywards Heath has an arts/cultural venue and Burgess Hill will not?

Mid Sussex District Council was faced with a tough choice when supporting the town centre regeneration. Cost limitations meant that we could not have a new town centre and an arts/cultural venue. The Council decided that the new town centre, with all the features described above including the number of new jobs it would create, was the better decision for the benefit of Burgess Hill.

Martlets Hall multi-storey car park FAQs

Latest Questions

1. When will the Multi-Storey car park be closed to the public?

The closing date is anticipated to be January 2019.

2. Where can I park once the Multi-Storey car park is closed?

There is ample alternative car parking available in Burgess Hill, with the following car parks operated by Mid Sussex District Council:

Cyprus Road – 214 short stay and 101 long stay spaces
Station Road – 120 long stay spaces
Queens Crescent – 204 long stay spaces
Church Road – 54 short stay spaces

In addition, the Market Place Shopping Centre has 300 short stay car parking spaces.

3. What type of signage will be in place for the general public to ensure they have easy access to parking

A project to introduce a range of new signage directing customers to alternative car parks within the town depending on their requirements and entry points into the town will be delivered during 2018.

4. Where can I find further information about parking arrangements?

Full details will be available on the MSDC website

Local infrastructure FAQs

Latest Questions

1. The increase in population will create an increase in demand on local public services such as education and health. How will the population tackle that?

Permission is sought for up to 19,620m2 of educational space which will include two primary schools with early years and special education needs and disabilities (SEND) provision and a secondary school campus also including SEND provision.

If the Horsham and Mid Sussex Clinical Commissioning Group do not require an on-site facility, a financial contribution towards off-site healthcare improvements in the locality will be provided.

2. Will local utitlities be able to cope with over 3,000 new homes?

In terms of water supply, Homes England is in ongoing discussion with South East Water to confirm proposed point of connections for the different parts of the site. The development will be served by a network of utilities infrastructure, including surface water attenuation and common service trenches for utility and broadband networks.

3. How can I comment on planning applications for the new bridge and link road?

The planning application can be accessed via Mid Sussex District Council's planning register by using reference number DM/19/3313. Comments can also be made by writing to Planning Department, Oaklands Road, Haywards Heath, West Sussex RH16 1SS.

4. How will you encourage the use of public transport?

Public transport will be critical to embed sustainable travel habits from the outset of the development. The layout of the site has been designed to facilitate a main public transport corridor which will help to ensure that all parts of the site have access to bus based public transport. On Maple Drive for example, pedestrian and cycle improvements to enhance connections to Wivelsfield railway station will be provided. We are also proposing a new bus route that will pass through the Northern Arc on the spine road between Jane Murray Way in the west and Maple Drive in the east. This will be a high frequency route that will connect the Northern Arc to key destinations in Burgess Hill including the railway stations, the town centre and the main employment centres.

These improvements will support Mid Sussex District Council and West Sussex District Council's 'Place and Connectivity programme' which will deliver significant infrastructure improvements across Burgess Hill.

5. The new development at Freeks Farm will increase traffic on Maple Drive and the surrounding areas, what will be done to address this?

The planning consent for Freeks Farm allows for 130 homes to be built and occupied and accessed from Maple Drive. Further development will only be possible once the highway and bridge connection to the A273 Isaacs Lane is complete. The planning application, approved in January 2020, can be accessed on Mid Sussex District Council's planning register – reference DM/19/3313.

6. How will the local road network deal with the increase in traffic that the development will bring?

We are committed to delivering a well-connected development and are working closely with Mid Sussex District Council (MSDC), West Sussex County Council (WSCC) and Highways England to deliver a wide range of improvements which will benefit both existing and new residents of Burgess Hill.

These include:

• Increasing the capacity of key junctions including three existing roundabouts on the A273 Jane Murray Way, at York Road, Coulstock Road and Sussex Way.

• A spine road through the site which will provide a link road between the A2300 and the A272 Isaacs Lane. This will also relieve parts of the existing highway network in Burgess Hill by providing a more convenient route for some through traffic travelling between Isaacs Lane, the A2300 and Jane Murray Way.

• Contribution to the dualling of the A2300 being delivered by WSCC.

• A Public Transport Strategy, developed in consultation with WSCC and Metrobus, which will ultimately see buses connect Brookleigh with key destinations in Burgess Hill via buses every 12 minutes, like the town centre, railway stations and key employment areas. Discussions are ongoing with other bus operators to further enhance this bus service. • A three-tier network of cycling and walking routes throughout Brookleigh, which will cater for a mix of ages and abilities

Community and Infrastructure FAQs

Latest Questions

1. The increase in population will create an increase in demand on local public services such as education and health. How will the project tackle that?

If the Horsham and Mid Sussex Clinical Commissioning Group do not require an on-site facility, a financial contribution towards off-site healthcare improvements in the locality will be provided.

2. Will local utilities be able to cope with over 3,000 new homes?

3. How can I comment on the planning application for the new bridge and link road?

4. How will you encourage the use of public transport?

5. The new development at Freeks Farm will increase traffic on Maple Drive and the surrounding area, what will be done to address this?

Brookleigh Planning Applications

You can view all Brookleigh planning applications by searching on Mid Sussex District Council's planning register at https://pa.midsussex.gov.uk/online-applications/. Look out for the planning reference numbers below.

The Outline Planning Application can be found using (DM/18/5114).

Recent Planning Applications at Brookleigh...

It's been a busy start to 2025 at Brookleigh with three planning applications recently being submitted to Mid Sussex District Council (MSDC).

Bellway and Homes England have submitted a planning application for footway and cycleway improvements at Freeks Lane. The proposed works will cover the length of Freeks Lane extending north from Eastbridge Avenue, and into the Brookleigh development, running adjacent to Brookleigh's planned extension to Bedelands Nature Reserve, and heading west to connect to the new Eastern Bridge and Link Road. The aim is to improve access along this Public Right of Way and contribute towards the extension of the Burgess Hill Green Circle around Brookleigh (DM/25/0088).

Jackson Civil Engineering has also submitted an application for permission to build improved pedestrian and cycle access along two sections of existing highway: the first improvement being the north side of the A2300, between the Triangle Roundabout and the recently constructed Phase 1 'A2300 Roundabout' and the second on the A273 Jane Murray Way, between the Triangle An example image of a footpath and cycle lane Roundabout and the recently constructed Phase 1 'A273 Roundabout' and then continuing south to the recently constructed Pegasus crossing at Gatehouse Lane (DM/25/0109).

Homes England has also recently submitted an application to MSDC in relation to the development of the central section of the spine road through the Brookleigh development. The central section, named locally as Abbotsford Avenue and Crossways Avenue, will form part of a length of road which spans the width of Brookleigh, linking the A2300 in the west to Maple Drive in the east (DM/25/0446).

An example image of a footpath and cycle lane

Previous Planning Applications

In December 2022, consent was granted for Mid Sussex District Council (MSDC) to build a Centre for Outdoor Sport at Brookleigh, which will provide outdoor pitches and changing facilities for community use. Homes England has donated the land for the Centre for Outdoor Sport to Mid Sussex District Council (MSDC), along with payments towards building and maintaining the centre.

To view the Planning Application, please visit the MSDC Planning Portal using the reference DM/23/3182

Bedelands Academy (DM/22/2553) - a reserved matters application submitted by Homes England and West Sussex County Council for the erection of a net-zero Secondary School, including specialist support centre, drop off area, access, multi-use games area, all weather pitch, with associated landscaping and infrastructure. The school will offer excellent educational facilities to 900 local children. Approved December 2022.

Masterplan of the Secondary-School at Brookleigh

Eastern Bridge and Link Road (DM/19/3313) - this will connect Isaacs Lane to Freeks Farm in the eastern part of the site. This will relieve traffic pressure and support the construction of the new homes. Approved January 2020.
The Western Link Road (DM/20/0254) will connect Jane Murray Way to the western part of the site. Approved July 2020.

Bellway's reserved matters application to deliver homes to the eastern edge of the wider Brookleigh site. The scheme is for 247 homes, with 30% affordable housing and will provide public open spaces and an extension to the Bedelands nature reserve. (DM/21/3870). Approved May 2022.

A CGI of Bellway homes

Freeks Farm (DM/19/3845) – a reserved matters application submitted by Countryside Partnerships for 460 new homes in the east of the site, as well as public open space, play areas, associated infrastructure including roads, surface water attenuation and associated demolition. Approved December 2019.

A drone image of the new homes at Oakhurst

Brookleigh FAQs

Latest Questions

1. Why is Brookleigh being developed?

The planning application can be accessed on Mid Sussex District Council's planning register

2. Where is the site?

Brookleigh is to the north of Burgess Hill lying between Bedelands Nature Reserve on the east side of Burgess Hill and the Goddards Green Waste Water Treatment Works to the west. The site is located approximately 1.5 miles to the north of Burgess Hill town centre.

3. What is West Sussex County Council's role in the scheme?

West Sussex County Council is the local highways and education authority for Brookleigh and is responsible for providing services across the county such as roads, rights of way and schools. Through the Burgess Hill Growth Programme, the County Council, in partnership with the district, is creating safe, direct and attractive walking and cycling routes and high-quality public spaces to encourage people to choose to walk, cycle and use public transport.

4. Who is delivering the scheme and who is Homes England?

Homes England is the Government's housing agency. They are responsible for increasing the number of homes that are built in England, including affordable homes and homes for market sale. They unlock development by releasing more land to developers who want to make a difference, and by making homes happen where they are most needed. Homes England are the master developer at Brookleigh. They have acquired the land at Brookleigh and will make it available to developer partners as they join the project, as well as directly appoint contractors to bring forward key infrastructure at the right time.

5. How do I get in touch?

Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Phone: Sarah Ward on 07776 527 643

6. How do I sign up to receive the e-newsletter?

To receive the Brookleigh quarterly e-newsletter via email please complete this form. Once you have provided your email address, we will send a Privacy Notice for you to confirm that you agree to Homes England storing your email address for the purpose of the e-newsletter and then you will automatically receive updates on the development, including information about public events and consultation.

7. Will construction take a phased approach?

The approach will be phased over several years (2020-2033) and construction management plans will be submitted alongside the detailed planning applications. Infrastructure will be constructed early with phase one delivering the new bridges and link roads in the east and west of the site, the secondary school, the first primary school, a Centre for Outdoor Sport, employment land and two neighbourhood centres. Phase one is expected to be delivered between 2020 and 2025

8. How are you involving the community in the Burgess Hill development?

Homes England will work closely with the local community to involve them in the development process as it progresses. As individual developers join the project, Homes England will work alongside them to make sure that the community is consulted as part of the Reserved Matters planning applications and kept informed throughout the construction process.

10. What type of housing will be delivered?

11. What sort of employment space will be available?

12. Will there be public open space for all?

A rich variety of attractive open spaces supporting biodiversity as well as meeting community needs for recreation and supporting health and well-being will be delivered. This includes extensive areas of natural open space encompassing the river valleys, woodlands and grassland areas (providing opportunities for walking, cycling and exercise) and three formal parklands located close to the Neighbourhood Centres to meet needs for children's play, informal sports and passive recreation.

13. How will Brookleigh be a 10 minute neighbourhood?

Brookleigh has been designed as a ten-minute neighbourhood. With the three neighbourhood centres, every home in the development will be within a ten-minute walk from local shops and facilities so people can pick up what they need easily and quickly within the local area. The two new primary schools will also be located at the neighbourhood centres, as will the parks – meaning these public squares will become the focal points for everyday life.

14. When will the schools be built?

Homes England are planning for a sustainable community at Brookleigh providing infrastructure and community facilities at the right time. The eastern primary school, will be two-form entry with provision for early years and children with special education needs. The primary school at the centre of Brookleigh is planned to be developed later in the scheme.

The new secondary school will be developed by West Sussex County Council, with Homes England providing land for the school and making a significant financial contribution towards the cost of the facility and towards local off-site sixth form provision.

In June and July of 2021, West Sussex County Council (WSCC) ran a public consultation about how people thought the new school should be set up and who should run it. There were hundreds of responses recognising the need for school places in the area, with a significant number of respondees also mentioning the need for school places for children with special educational needs and/or a preference for early years places to be provided. It is expected that these facilities will be included in the new school.

The University of Brighton Academies Trust will run the new school as part of an 'all-through' primary and secondary school named The Bedelands Academy.

15. Will there be sufficient parking for residents and visitors across Brookleigh?

Parking will be provided in accordance with local planning policy – it will include car parking courts, communal car parking, on-street and private provision. It is proposed that 30 public electric vehicle charging points will be located within the three mixed use local centres. It is also proposed that the development will include private electric vehicle charging points within the residential development plots.

Residential cycle parking will also be provided with up to 8,451 residential cycle spaces proposed on the site. Cycle parking to serve non-residential uses will be confirmed as the plans progress.

16. How are Homes England using modern methods of construction during construction at Brookleigh?

Like many other sectors, the construction industry is increasingly making sustainable, efficient choices. Homes England are making sure that developer partners at Brookleigh are future-focused in their design and build techniques.

Vistry, the first house builder to join Brookleigh, are employing a range of modern methods of construction (MMC) techniques such as their use of timber in structural frames for homes which bring benefits for both Countryside and the residents who will be moving in to the homes.

On Thursday 19 May 2022 MSDC's District Planning Committee voted unanimously to approve Bellway and Homes England's joint Reserved Matters application for 249 homes on land east of Issacs Lane and at Lowlands Farm – the next phase of housing at Brookleigh. The highly sustainable development will achieve a 31% reduction in carbon emissions against current building regulations, with all homes also meeting the requirements of the Future Homes Standard. Every new home will include renewable technologies in the form of either solar panels, air source heat pumps or hot water heat pumps. 113 of the houses within the Bellway plot – 83% of the total - will have PV solar panels and the remaining 17% of houses which are unsuitable for solar panels (either through orientation or overshadowing) will have air source heat pumps fitted instead. This technology is also underpinned by a fabric-first approach to reduce energy demand.

Vistry and other Homes England developer partners will continue to use industry leading Modern Methods of Construction at Brookleigh to ensure we're building sustainable homes for a sustainable community, for more information about these processes, please see the 8th edition of the Brookleigh newsletter.

17. How is the additional electrical/water demand met?

The existing 132kv primary electricity substation to the west of Jane Murray Way (A273) will be extended by up to 3,020m2 to provide additional electrical capacity to serve the development although it should be noted that this falls outside of the application site boundary. The existing 132kv overhead power lines to the north west of St Paul's Catholic College will be undergrounded. As the regional water supplier South East Water is legally obliged to provide water and manage water resources within its designated geographical area. As each developer partner joins Brookleigh to build homes, they will apply to South East Water for individual connections to service their plots. Each developer will then make a financial contribution to South East Water for them to provide this service.

Homes England have had initial and ongoing conversations with South East Water to ensure that they have the capacity to expand their provision in Burgess Hill, to accommodate the Brookleigh development, with no concerns over available water supply being raised in relation to Homes England's development programme.

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18. How will this development improve the situation for equestrians

Mid Sussex District Council and West Sussex County Council are currently exploring whether a connection for equestrians is possible along the north side of the A2300 through the Place and Connectivity Programme. Improvements include making use of an existing vehicle bridge across the A2300 in the west of the site, which will only be used for horse riders, cyclists and pedestrians as well as upgrading the existing Freeks Lane footpath to allow horse riders to use this connection.

An extension of the Green Circle, parallel to Jane Murray Way/Sussex Way will also be provided. Parts of this route fall within the scheme boundary, other parts outside are expected to be delivered by the local authority. The proposed bridleways will allow horse riders to navigate the whole of Brookleigh from the north and the south. Mid Sussex District Council and West Sussex County Council are currently exploring whether a connection for equestrians is possible along the north side of the A2300 through the Place and Connectivity Programme.

19. How will Brookleigh connect with Burgess Hill Town centre?

Existing pedestrian and cycle connections will be enhanced and new connections created across Jane Murray Way and Sussex Way at logical points in the development phasing, so as to integrate Brookleigh with the existing communities to the south. The enhancement of the Green Circle and the new 'Green Super Highway' through Brookleigh will create strong east – west pedestrian and cycle connections linking the employment and sports area in the west to Wivelsfield Station in the east.

The approach to public transport will ensure that new and existing facilities are well connected to existing and new residential neighbourhoods, Burgess Hill town centre, and employment areas.

20. How will the local road network deal with the increase in traffic that the development will bring?

These include:

Increasing the capacity of key junctions including three existing roundabouts on the A273 Jane Murray Way, at York Road, Coulstock Road and Sussex Way.
A spine road through the site which will provide a link road between the A2300 and the A272 Isaacs Lane. This will also relieve parts of the existing highway network in Burgess Hill by providing a more convenient route for some through traffic travelling between Isaacs Lane, the A2300 and Jane Murray Way.
Link roads into the site, which will allow construction traffic to enter and exit the site. The Eastern Bridge and Link Road (planning consent granted January 2020) will join Freeks Lane and Isaacs Lane (A273) and the Western Link Road (planning consent granted July 2020) will join the A2300 to the Northern Arc
Contribution to the dualling of the A2300 being delivered by WSCC.
A Public Transport Strategy, developed in consultation with WSCC and Metrobus, which will ultimately see buses connect the Northern Arc with key destinations in Burgess Hill via buses every 12 minutes, like the town centre, railway stations and key employment areas. Discussions are ongoing with other bus operators to further enhance this bus service.
A three-tier network of cycling and walking routes throughout the Brookleigh, which will cater for a mix of ages and abilities.

21. Will this development have impact on local footpaths?

The Northern Arc avenue will feature continuous pedestrian and cycle infrastructure along its length providing an east-west connection between the A273 and A2300 in the west and Maple Drive in the east. A network of walking and cycling routes will be provided to offer an alternative corridor to the Northern Arc avenue. The secondary pedestrian and cycle route will create a safe and convenient link connecting neighbourhoods, local centres, schools and employment areas within Brookleigh. They will also integrate the new settlement and existing residents of Burgess Hill by providing substantial north-south connections. No current public footpaths will be closed as a result of the development.

In addition, the Green Circle will provide a recreational route through the site contributing towards the aspirations for a circular route around Burgess Hill.

22. What impact will the development have on local flood plains?

There will be no increased risk of downstream flooding as a result of the development. New natural drainage features or Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems (SuDS) will be incorporated within green spaces, outside of sensitive woodland and tree buffer zones to drain water from the public realm, provide visual interest, enhance the ecological value and increase biodiversity.

23. Will there be an impact on the Bedelands Nature Reserve?

This falls outside of the application boundary therefore will not be affected by the development.

24. How will the project mitigate for the loss of green space and countryside?

The development includes a total of 82.05 hectares of strategic green infrastructure comprising ancient woodland, sports pitches, grassland, parks and gardens and designated play provision. Together with the meandering water courses, these existing features define the character of the new community and frame the development. Homes England will plant an estimated 200,000 new trees, shrubs and plants across Brookleigh. Countryside Properties, the first developer on site, are planting two trees for each one that must be felled at their Freeks Farm site.

As well as making pleasant spaces for residents and visitors to enjoy, the network of green spaces throughout Brookleigh will have the important positive impact of creating habitats for native British wildlife. Brookleigh is required to deliver 10% biodiversity net gain across the site as part of the outline planning consent. Homes England have committed to providing a 23% net gain, 13% over the required standards. Biodiversity net gain is an approach to development that leaves nature in a better state after development than it was in before. All areas of ancient woodland on the site will be preserved, as well as areas that have also been identified to create new hedgerows, woodland, ponds and wildflower meadows, and the ecological condition of the River Adur will be improved.

Homes England and West Sussex County Council’s plans to create a zero-carbon school approved by Mid Sussex District Council

Homes England and West Sussex County Council's plans to create a zero-carbon school were approved by Mid Sussex District Council's planning committee on 15 December 2022. The ambitious design will allow the school to generate its own renewable energy on site without using any fossil fuels. It aims to be the first school in West Sussex to achieve Passivhaus certification, the highest standard of energy efficiency a building can reach, and offer excellent educational facilities to 900 local children. The school will be the largest capital project West Sussex County Council has delivered, and the cost will be part-funded by a £18m contribution from Homes England.

The all-through primary and secondary school is planned as part of the wider Burgess Hill Brookleigh development, providing a high-quality education for new and existing residents in the 3,500-home development and across the local area.

The University of Brighton Academies Trust has been appointed to run the new all-through school which will have both primary and secondary provision. West Sussex County Council (WSCC) is designing and building the secondary school site, which will be called the Bedelands Academy. The primary school element is being designed and built directly by Homes England. It will be two-form entry with provision for early years and children with special education needs.

A second new primary school at the centre of the scheme will be designed and built by Homes England in a later phase of development.

Fairbridge Way – Glenbeigh

The Fairbridge Way site will provide up to 325 homes (30% affordable) as part of the overall plans for the Northern Arc. It will include a wide range of house types and tenures to cater for housing demand in the local area, as well as providing connections to the wider development.

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