Story Highlight
- Demolition of Knights Farm West begins on 15 September 2026.
- Buildings pose health and safety risks, necessitating their removal.
- Wealden District Council acquired Knights Farm West in 2020.
- Future development aims to boost economic growth and employment.
- Demolition prepares site for phased development in the Local Plan.
Full Story
Demolition of outdated farm buildings at Knights Farm West, owned by Wealden District Council, is set to commence on 15 September 2026 and is anticipated to take about three weeks. This action is deemed necessary due to the deteriorating condition of the structures, which poses health and safety risks. The demolition will also facilitate the site’s future development, as the existing buildings are unsuitable for intended plans.
Wealden District Council acquired the Knights Farm West site in 2020, located near the A22 on the outskirts of Hailsham. In October 2021, the council’s Cabinet endorsed initiatives for the area aimed at fostering economic development, creating job opportunities, and generating sustainable income.
The vision for Knights Farm West involves establishing a development that will benefit local residents, businesses, and services. Current demand for quality business spaces in Wealden is highlighted by high occupancy levels at nearby sites such as Swallow Business Park and Chaucer Business Park. The broader area is earmarked for development in the draft Local Plan and will be developed in phases, with the section containing the farm buildings designated for a subsequent phase.
Councillor Kelvin Williams, who is a member of the Alliance for Wealden (Liberal Democrat) and serves as the lead councillor for Public Health and Asset Management, stated, “Removing these buildings is an important first step in preparing Knights Farm West for its future. The buildings are in a poor condition and their proximity to a public footpath means it is important that we address the health and safety risk. Knights Farm West represents a significant opportunity to deliver much-needed employment space and support economic growth in the district.”
Demolition activities are planned to begin on the specified date, with measures set to ensure minimal disruption during the process.
Source: read the original report.
What this means for your site
The planned demolition of the farm buildings at Knights Farm West highlights critical health and safety implications. A more immediate assessment of the buildings could have ensured that the health and safety risks were managed earlier, minimizing potential hazards to workers and the public. The Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 mandates that employers ensure the health and safety of employees and the public in connection with work activities. Moreover, the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015 would apply to ensure that health and safety is considered from the planning and design stage through to the execution of the project.
To prevent incidents during demolition, site managers should conduct thorough risk assessments and establish robust method statements detailing safe practices. Implementing strict site access controls and engaging in regular communications with the local community about potential risks will aid in reducing hazards. Performing stakeholder consultations ahead of demolition would also help in managing public safety and setting clear expectations regarding work schedules and disruption.
