Community Engagement

The Landings has been shaped by over a decade of community input. From the earliest days of the Ford Neighbourhood Plan through to the present, local people, parish councils and the Ford Community Land Trust (CLT) have played a central role in setting the vision for the site.

  • In May 2024, Vistry hosted a two-day public exhibition at Edgcumbes Café.
  • Invitations were sent to over 3,000 households and businesses in Ford, Yapton and Climping, with 174 people attending in person.
  • The exhibition introduced the design code and first Reserved Matters applications, with 22 display boards, interactive maps, and feedback forms.
  • People could also comment online, via Freepost, or by email. In total, 52 pieces of feedback were received.
  • Feedback highlighted strong support for:
    • Retaining hedgerows and open space,
    • A semi-rural character for the southern neighbourhood,
    • Reflecting Ford’s heritage, including the canal and war memorial,
    • Better footpaths, cycle routes and links to Ford Station.
  • Concerns were also raised around drainage, traffic, and the location of the care home – issues which continue to be discussed with the community.

  • To ensure regular dialogue, a Community Liaison Group (CLG) has been established. This group meets every few months and includes representatives from:

    • Ford Parish Council
    • Yapton Parish Council
    • Clymping Parish Council
    • Arun District Council
    • Ford Community Land Trust

    The CLG provides a forum to:

    • Share updates on planning applications and construction,
    • Raise community concerns such as drainage, footpaths, traffic and open space,
    • Discuss heritage features such as the Runway Park and war memorial,
    • Ensure local voices are heard throughout the build programme.

    Minutes of the CLG meetings are published on this website here so that the wider community can see the issues raised and how they are being addressed.

  • Engagement does not end with planning consent. Vistry is committed to:

    • Providing regular newsletters and website updates,
    • Publishing consultation materials and planning documents online,
    • Continuing dialogue through the CLG, parish councils and the CLT,
    • Offering a clear point of contact for questions and feedback from residents.

    This approach ensures that The Landings is not just delivered to the community, but with the community – building a neighbourhood that reflects local aspirations and delivers long-term value for Ford and the surrounding villages.