Multi-million pound plans to revamp a town centre have been agreed - despite concerns from residents and traders.

Mid Sussex District Council has voted to adopt a controversial "masterplan" for Haywards Heath.

But David Jarman, chairman of the Haywards Heath Society, said people were becoming increasingly concerned about developments that have already cost the council £1.5 million before a brick has even been laid.

At a public meeting last week, Haywards Heath residents complained they were being "shabbily treated" and "conned" by the council's relationship with developers Thornfield.

Councillors described the decision to adopt proposals by the designers as a "watershed decision".

Similar schemes have also been adopted for nearby Burgess Hill and East Grinstead.

The cabinet meeting on Tuesday agreed it would provide a "guiding vision" for the town over a 20 year period.

Haywards Heath railway station and Clair Hall will be rebuilt, new car parks will be created and shopping facilities upgraded as part of the plans.

But independent traders fear the new stores will increase rents and others believe negotiations between Thornfield and the council have not been "transparent" enough.

Mr Jarman said: "I think generally we are dissatisfied with the level of consultation and the fact that the latest version that's been released has been very hard to find.

"A number of development areas have reappeared that had been removed. Houses in Hazelgrove Road have gone back in for development and obviously that's a major issue for those living in the area.

"There have also been complaints by traders in South Road. They came to the town in good faith with private, independent shops which is what the town needs and in all probability their rents will be unaffordable."

Part of the plans may yet hinge on the sale of council offices at the highly-sought after Oaklands site in the town.

The council has already received a loan for £1.531 million from Thornfield for architects' drawings and other work carried out on plans across the three towns.

John Jory, chief executive, hailed the decision as "immensely important to Haywards Heath".

He added: "It secures the town's long-term future, providing a better environment and better lives for its residents.

"The adopted masterplan has taken on board comments received and concerns have been addressed.

"It is now up to private developers and landowners to bring forward proposals over time that reflect the aspirations of the masterplan for a thriving town centre.

"The station area will be given immediate priority, kick starting the regeneration of this area, which requires comprehensive improvement and upgrading."

Mr Jory added: "The council, and local councillors in particular, have done much to engage with the local community to agree a Master Plan to help govern the future of the town and address its decline.

"A great deal of consensus has been achieved but it is unrealistic to expect we can please everyone all of the time and meet everyone's personal requirements."

Mr Jory also stressed the decision secured both the future of Clair Hall and the Dolphin leisure centre.

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