New Monks Farm IKEA superstore: South Downs authority objects to A27 roundabout road

Developer The Community Stadium Ltd’s preferred option is a 330m lane to run alongside the A27 and joins Coombes Road via The Drive.

But the SDNPA has submitted a holding objection – meaning more information is needed before making a judgement – against the impact area’s landscape and character.

The road should be redesigned to be more narrow, without markings and lined with trees to encourage drivers to adhere to the 20/30mph speed limit, it said.

The current design is for a road with speed bumps and extensive signs to enforce the speed limit.

According to the SDNPA, that would lead to ‘the addition of more clutter and intensification of infrastructure’ and ‘continued urbanisation and negative effects’ along the edge of the Downs.

The authority argued the negative effects appear to have been accepted rather than avoided or reduced.

More trees are also required, the SDNPA said, to reduce noise, maintain ecosystems and combat air pollution.

The SNDPA requested more information on drainage and pushed for natural methods that tackle flooding on the surface rather than through sewers.

Bramber Parish Council has also objected, suggesting a fourth arm should not link to Coombes Road.

The rural nature of Coombes Road must be saved, said the council, as well as its use by cyclists and walkers and shared status with the South Downs Wa