Ford's decommissioned airfield (just outside Littlehampton) has been designated a Strategic Development Site within the Adopted Local Plan.
The site allocates 112 hectares of land for:
At least 1,500 homes, including market/affordable homes and homes for the elderly;
2-form entry primary school and nursery;
Community hub, including retail/commercial and community facilities, alongside library and healthcare facilities;
Sports pitches and changing facilities;
3G pitch;
Employment;
Public open space, including play areas and allotments;
Retention of Ford market.
Plans (Ford Parish Council Neighbourhood Development Plan) were developed as a result of a series of public consultations to determine the views of the local community. A masterplan was consequently created that fulfilled those aspirations and addressed concerns.
The masterplan balances the economic, social, and environmental needs for the benefit of the community. New jobs will be created through new employment opportunities, new healthcare and educational facilities will be built to serve the enlarged village, and landscaping to ensure it is attractive and respectful to the pre-existing municipality.