Lewes Matters is a group of residents all of whom share concerns over the scale and scope of development proposals for the Phoenix Industrial Estate.

The depth of feeling was demonstrated when nearly a thousand signatures were collected over one weekend to petition the Council to hold a Town Meeting where residents from all parts of Lewes could learn details of the proposals and hear the views of other residents, the Developer and relevant experts.

• Many people believe that the Phoenix Estate should be regenerated.
• Any major redevelopment will have a significant impact on the whole town.
• Many residents have voiced concern at the density of the development, believing that the addition of 800 new homes on a 14 acre site will seriously harm the character of Lewes.
• Others are worried at the prospect of high-rise commercial buildings dominating the existing urban landscape.
• What impact will the arrival of big brand retailers have on the High Street and Cliffe and how much does this matter?
• Residents have also questioned the wisdom of improving flood defence for one quarter to the possible detriment of other parts of the town.
• Other concerns include the impact of increased traffic, parking and pressures on utilities, as well as significant increased demands on education and health resources.