A HOT debate over housing has broken out in Rogate.

Many residents are in favour of affordable homes being built if they are to be for local people.

But others feel strongly there should be no more houses at sites such as the Parsonage and Hugo Platt estates, with the infrastructure unable to cope.

Now the team behind Rogate and Rake Neighbourhood Plan has concluded that it is inappropriate for intensification of housing there.

A survey last month canvassed opinion on development on the estates, with 48 replies received. The majority wanted to see more affordable homes but not in those areas, believing that would have an adverse effect on refuse collections, emergency services, roads and more.

They have now recognised the strength of feeling, with 101 signing a petition organised by the village’s newly-formed Community First Alliance.

This called on the planning authorities of Chichester District Council and the South Downs National Park Authority to remove Parsonage from the plan as a potential development site and reject any further housing plans for the estate. It also asked for a full consultation with residents on any future proposals.

Lesley Hill, of Parsonage, says the main problem is the sewage. “It sometimes comes right up to the back door. I know houses have to be built but there must be other places in Rogate.”

Villager Alan Greenfield was more concerned about the need for homes for local people though.“There are a lot of families here who work locally and need housing.”

There were elderly people living in bigger homes who were prepared to move into bungalows or flats to free up their houses.

Resident Dennis Parker agreed: “We need local house for local people.” He felt the petition had stirred up trouble.