Residents unite and right

The society was formed because of increasing concerns about pressure on the local environment. Growing levels of traffic, the use of the road as a rat run, repeated attempts at unsuitable levels of development and fears over drainage and flooding have led to a widespread determination to safeguard the quality of life for local people.

The society was formed earlier this year after more than 40 people representing nearly all of the families in the area attended a meeting at Heathfield Community Centre.

The community is facing an immediate challenge with the latest attempt to build 12 houses off Tilsmore Road.

The proposal would mean a 20% increase in the number of houses along the road but makes no provision for increased traffic or the impact on a drainage system.

Neither is there any footpath on Tilsmore Road and residents are increasingly concerned for the safety of pedestrians, in particular children walking to nearby Cross in Hand Primary School.

Co-ordinator Mike Flynn said: 'There has been a noticeable groundswell of opinion in the local area with people deciding the time has come to organise, campaign and protect our environment.

'We are fortunate enough to live in a place which has many qualities and people have decided they are going to defend it.'

TRIPS is urging people to express their views on the planning application by writing to the District Planning Officer, Wealden District Council, Crowborough, TN6 1DH before February 13 quoting application number WD/02/2855/F.