Crawley Borough Council is delighted to announce that contracts have been exchanged for a landmark development that will deliver 39 new council homes for local people, helping to ease pressure on the housing list and meet the growing need for affordable accommodation.

The scheme, located on the former ambulance station site, will provide 37 two-bedroom and two, one-bedroom apartments across six storeys, set alongside ancient woodland. All homes will be available for affordable rent and allocated to qualifying applicants on the council’s housing register.

Following delays caused by water neutrality requirements, this project is now set to become the first major affordable housing scheme to progress to construction. Work is expected to start in early 2026, with completion and occupation anticipated by the end of 2027.

This is fantastic news for Crawley. These new council homes will make a real difference to families who need secure, affordable housing. We’ve worked hard to overcome challenges and ensure this scheme goes ahead, and I’m proud that we’re delivering for our community.

Councillor Michael Jones

Leader

Crawley Borough Council

Affordable housing is one of our top priorities. This development will not only provide high-quality homes but also help reduce the pressure on our housing list. It’s a significant step forward for Crawley.

Councillor Ian Irvine

Cabinet member for Housing

Crawley Borough Council

All nominations will be made in line with the council’s housing allocations policy which includes a minimum five-year local connection with Crawley requirement.

The council has partnered with Tkei (Crawley) Ltd, a local SME developer, and Amarta, a local build contractor, under a unique turnkey arrangement. This approach ensures strong risk management and supports local businesses while delivering much-needed homes.

Contracts were formally exchanged on 27 October, with completion expected by mid-December when the council will take ownership of the land.

Jet2 has announced it is to offer flights from Gatwick Airport for the first time.

The airline said it had secured slots for six aircraft following the “release of additional capacity” by the airport.

Hundreds of jobs will be created in the region.

The airline will initially offer flights to 29 destinations.

West Sussex County Council is wanting feedback on proposals to improve two key routes in Horsham.

The proposals focus on Rusper Road and Guildford Road, both important routes for accessing schools, workplaces and local services.

The council  is considering a range of targeted measures, including improved crossings for pedestrians, bus priority features and road layout changes.

The consultation closes on 22 December 2025.

Over £400,000 is set to be injected into Crawley to tackle homelessness in the area.

The town’s MP Peter Lamb has helped to secure the money as part of a nationwide campaign ahead of winter.

Children and families will be prioritised with the funding going towards helping cover essentials like food and school travel.

Mr Lamb said, “The need to fix our broken housing system is one of his biggest motivations in politics”.