Proposals have been unveiled for a heritage-led residential redevelopment of the historic former Steyning Grammar School site on Church Street.
The project, led by Church Barn Steyning Ltd, seeks to transform the campus following the school’s relocation of its lower years to The Towers in Upper Beeding in August 2022. A public consultation was held on Wednesday, 9 September 2026, at The Steyning Centre to gather community feedback before a formal planning application is submitted to Horsham District Council.
The site is of significant historical importance, featuring the Grade I listed Brotherhood Hall. The building dates back to the 15th century and served as the original home of the school, which was established in 1614.
Proposed Housing and Heritage Restoration
The emerging scheme focuses on the conversion of the historic school buildings alongside the potential for new-build elements.
The project is being managed by ECE Planning, which is currently reviewing the feedback from the September exhibition. The developers have clarified that this residential scheme is entirely separate from the Department for Education’s multi-million-pound project to consolidate Steyning Grammar School’s remaining operations onto its single campus at Shooting Field.
Next Steps in the Planning Process
While the total number of residential units has not yet been finalised in the public consultation materials, the feedback received will inform the final design.
The site has remained largely vacant since the school vacated the Church Street campus four years ago. Once the consultation phase is complete, a full planning application and an application for listed building consent will be lodged with Horsham District Council.
As the local planning authority, Horsham District Council will be responsible for the final decision on whether the development can proceed. Residents and stakeholders will have further opportunities to comment formally on the plans once the application is registered on the council’s planning portal.
