Issue details

This report follows on from previous reports to Planning Committee in May 2021, December 2021 and May 2022. The outcome of these reports was that the Committee stated a preference to secure the reduction in height of the acoustic barrier to 2.5m. The Committee had resolved to seek expert advice (to be reported back to Committee) on the likely costs associated with this. A brief for this work was prepared and issued but no fee proposals were received.

During this time, further discussions have taken place with West Sussex County Council as they have extensive experience of the project and many of the issues associated with the potential reduction in height of the barrier. From these discussions, it is clear that the overall costs and potential compensations costs would be significant and would be likely to far exceed £2mil. The Committee will consider whether the exposure to this level of costs is something that the Council should pursue or not.