South Downs National Park land used as Gypsy caravan site

The land, north of The Crescent in Newhaven, was converted by its owners Edward Smith and Louise Chapman.

They are now seeking full planning permission for its continued use as a private Gypsy and Traveller site.

The entrance to The Crescent seen on the left (Image: Google) The site is 0.255 hectares and is located 1.6 kilometres north east of Newhaven town centre.

The application states that the work to convert the land into a caravan site started in May 2025. The planning application was then submitted in July.

Four touring caravans, each with a portaloo toilet, are stationed on the site. All the caravans are occupied by members of the same family.

The site, in white, seen from above (Image: Google) The application said water is collected or purchased locally, electricity is provided by a generator and there are plans to install solar panels.

The central area between the caravans is used as an amenity space for the occupants.

The application also mentions that refuse and recyclable waste is stored in bags and disposed of weekly.

Drawings showing the layout of the site (Image: Robert Tutton Town Planning Consultants Ltd) The application states that "the applicants have previously resided in bricks and mortar accommodation, but they have never been truly at ease with that arrangement and wished to return to their inherent Gypsy lifestyle, and reside on the site together as a family unit".

An image of the caravan site (Image: Robert Tutton Town Planning Consultants Ltd) Read more:

The application states that the site is largely screened from near and distant viewpoints, and proposes the planting of native trees to "soften the appearance of the development yet further".

According to the application, the proposed configuration "would make efficient use of this sustainable site, in a manner that respects the special character of its surroundings, and would not result in a detrimental impact on the character of the national park or users of the bridleways or public footpaths".

The South Downs National Park Authority is currently considering the application, which can be viewed using the reference SDNP/25/02709/FUL.