THERE has understandably been a lot of anger and disappointment in certain quarters following approval of the New Monks Farm development.

The building of a new Ikea superstore and 600 homes at the site near Lancing was finally given the go-ahead at the second time of asking at a meeting on Wednesday evening.

Of course, no one wants to see giant developments taking place on their doorsteps, but the fact of the matter is that with a rapidly increasing population, new homes have to built somewhere, especially as demand continues to outstrip supply.

In addition, new job opportunities are also at a premium in Sussex and has been pointed out, the opening of the new Ikea store will bring with it the prospect of employment for up to 875 people, who will largely be recruited locally.

January next year is scheduled to be the start date with the project expected to be complete by 2021.

With Brighton and Hove Albion behind the development, its executive director Martin Perry, was keen to point out the economic benefits it will bring.

He pointed out that hundreds of new jobs will be created, that badly-needed homes will be built and that the future of Shoreham Airport will also be assured.

The points he makes are of course valid and he also points out there was a lot of negativity prior to the club’s ground, The Amex, being built, yet since being constructed it has been deemed a huge success.

It may take time and plenty of disruption lies ahead but in time New Monks Farm may be viewed in similar fashion.