A £1 BILLION neighbourhood has moved a step closer to fruition after councillors gave it their backing.

Horsham District Council planning committee gave the green light on Monday for the development of more than 2,750 homes and a giant business park north of the town.

The plans by major US real estate firm Liberty Property Trust have been opposed over concerns of massive urban sprawl and a loss of countryside.

At the meeting, re-arranged a month later than scheduled, councillors raised concerns the 35 per cent affordable homes target would be missed because of viability issues.

Committee members were warned further delays or a rejection of the scheme were likely to be overturned on appeal.