Case study
Billingshurst, West Sussex
Petrol station, employment space and motorcycle dealership
The challenge
The scheme proposed a new petrol station, employment space and motorcycle dealership on a site outside the village boundary in Billingshurst. Officers were initially reticent to support due to the out-of-centre location, making political and community support essential.
Our approach
DevComms focused on demonstrating local economic benefit, achieving support from Billingshurst Parish Council, local businesses (through a joint letter of support coordinated with the Chamber of Commerce), and local residents through a consultation generating 620 responses with 73.83% support.
The outcome
Billingshurst Parish Council spoke in support at Committee. The application was approved, with the Parish Council publicly thanking DevComms for the quality of community engagement.
