A decision on a major new Marks & Spencer flagship store is scheduled to be made today as Chichester District Council’s planning committee meets to consider developments across the region.
The proposal for the new retail site at Discovery Park, Barnfield Drive, is the most high-profile item in a week that has also seen several new applications validated within the South Downs National Park and critical deadlines set for heritage projects.
Major commercial and residential updates
The Marks & Spencer flagship proposal, scheduled for decision on 9 September 2026, would significantly alter the retail landscape at Barnfield Drive.
In Petworth, a new application (SDNP/26/02972/FUL) was validated on 3 September 2026 regarding the former Trowells shop on Pound Street. The proposal seeks a change of use from the ground floor shop into ancillary residential accommodation.
Further utility works are also planned for the district. An application to renew below-ground water mains at Halfway Bridge, Lodsworth (SDNP/26/03445/SUPD), was formally validated on 3 September 2026.
Parish council and heritage news
Local heritage remains a focus for parish authorities. Lavant Parish Council met on 8 September 2026 to discuss an application for Juno Cottage (SDNP/26/00939/LIS). The proposal involves the removal and replacement of external render on the historic property.
Meanwhile, a deadline is approaching for residents wishing to comment on plans for the Tangmere Military Aviation Museum. The application (TG/26/01679/FUL) proposes a new aircraft conservation building. The final date for representations to be submitted to the council is 10 September 2026.
Consultations and the Local Plan
Chichester District Council is currently seeking public feedback on its “Local Plan 2045” scoping consultation. Residents have until 25 September 2026 to provide their views on the long-term development strategy for the district.
Developments on the district border are also reaching a conclusion today. Havant Borough Council is closing its final consultation on its own Local Plan at 5pm on 9 September 2026. This plan is of particular relevance to residents in the western part of the Chichester district due to its impact on the shared border.
How to view and comment on plans
Members of the public can inspect full planning applications and architectural drawings in person at East Pallant House in Chichester. The planning office is open for inspections between 9am and 4pm, Monday to Friday.
Applications within the South Downs National Park are handled by the South Downs National Park Authority (SDNPA), though they are often accessible via the Chichester District Council planning portal. When searching, residents should use the specific application reference numbers, such as those beginning with ‘SDNP’ for park-based proposals or ‘TG’ for Tangmere-specific items.