West Sussex Residents eNewsletter

22

August 2025

August 2025 West Sussex County Council eNewsletter

Residents' enewsletter

Welcome to the August 2025 edition of our Residents’ eNewsletter, featuring the latest news and updates from your county council.

end of summer beach sunset

Bank holiday then back to school safely

The holidays are still here! The new school term starts in less than a fortnight, but there’s still a bank holiday to look forward to.

We’re here 24/7 if you need to contact us over the bank holiday weekend (23 to 25 August), and if you're looking for something to do visit Experience Sussex for some late summer inspiration.

Schools return on Wednesday 3 September. Check out the term dates for the next year here.

If your child is moving up to secondary school, this brings new challenges including some pupils travelling to school independently for the first time.

If they plan to walk or bike to school on their own or with friends, now is a good time to sit down with your child and talk through their new route to school and how to keep themselves safe whilst making these journeys without you.

Road casualty data shows that the number of child pedestrian casualties doubles between the ages of nine and 11, with incidents more likely to happen during school drop-off and pick up times.

This free, printable activity sheet is a great way to interact with your child to help them prepare for this significant transition to secondary school.

Shoreham

Remembering the Shoreham Airshow disaster victims

Tomorrow (Friday 22 August) marks the 10^th anniversary of the Shoreham Airshow disaster.

Eleven people lost their lives that day and our thoughts remain with them, their loved ones, and everyone in our community affected by what happened.

To honour those who died, West Sussex County Council is commemorating the anniversary with a minute’s silence.

We invite everyone to join us, wherever you may be, in pausing at 1.22pm tomorrow, which is the time the tragedy occurred 10 years ago.

All flags at county council and West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service buildings will be lowered to half-mast on Friday as a mark of respect.

emergency alert

Emergency Alerts system test in September

The UK government is testing the Emergency Alerts system on Sunday 7 September 2025 at 3pm.

Compatible mobile phones and tablets will receive an alert, make a loud siren-like sound and vibrate. You will not need to take any action.

If you or someone you know is a victim of domestic abuse with a concealed phone, it may be more appropriate to turn off alerts.

How you opt out depends on your device, but if you aren't sure how to do it, Refuge, the largest specialist domestic abuse organisation in the UK, has a guide on how to turn off emergency alerts and secure your device on their Tech Safety website.

Find out more

group of babies

Childhood vaccinations update

Illnesses like measles and whooping cough can spread very easily between children who are not vaccinated. These illnesses can make children very sick, leading to hospital stays or lifelong problems.

It’s important that vaccines are given on time for the best protection. If your child is not vaccinated, they are not protected.

It’s never too late to have vaccinations, and the school holidays are an ideal time to make sure children are up to date with their vaccinations.

There have been recent changes to the childhood vaccination schedule.

Please check the updated schedule to ensure your child has received all recommended vaccinations and is fully protected.

You can also check your child’s red book or speak to your GP practice or health visitor to see if they have missed any of their vaccinations

Find out more

health and wellbeing

New strategy to improve West Sussex residents’ health and wellbeing

A new five-year strategy has been published which is the county’s overarching plan to improve the health and wellbeing of residents and communities across West Sussex and reduce health inequalities.

Developed by the West Sussex Health and Wellbeing Board and wider partners, the plan also includes feedback following a public consultation on the draft strategy held earlier this year.

The strategy presents the board’s vision of ‘Improving Lives Together in West Sussex.’

It focuses on five priority areas, with three principles which are central to its delivery.

The five priority areas are:

Food and nutrition
School readiness
Transitioning to adulthood – children and young people’s mental health and wellbeing
Tobacco control
Health and wellbeing in temporary accommodation

Watch our short animation to find out more about this work.

Find out more

plastic recyclables

Think Before You Throw survey results

There were more than 3,000 respondents to our recent recycling survey and 92% said that recycling is very important, and we agree!

The survey also revealed there’s still some confusion around recycling plastics.

In West Sussex, you can recycle all colours of plastic bottles, pots, tubs, and trays, as long as they’re clean, dry, and loose.

Plastic bags and wrapping, like crisp packets and carrier bags, cannot be recycled at home due to the way our recycling facility works.

You can, however, take these materials to your local supermarket for recycling. Find your nearest participating store online here.

View a video about plastics recycling, or find out more below.

Find out more

environment and climate change news

If you are passionate about our local environment and climate change and want to know more, then take a look at our latest Environment and Climate Change eNewsletter here.

This month's edition includes news about the updated flood risk management strategy, a new pollinator highway, and how you can reduce waste by visiting one of our reuse shops.

more news

Head to our Newsroom to find all the latest news.

Congratulations to everyone who has recently received their A-level or GCSE results! Our careers advisors are on hand to give one-to-one advice about your next steps. Chat with the careers team by calling 0330 222 7175 or emailing careersadvice@westsussex.gov.uk. You can also visit the careers guidance webpage for more information. Feeling down, stressed or anxious after opening your grades? You can find support, advice and plenty of useful resources to help you with your emotional wellbeing on the E-Wellbeing website.
Thank you to those who completed the survey on local government reorganisation. We’ll keep you informed as the process continues and you can find further information here.
A property management company and its sole director have been ordered to pay a total of £1,588 after being found guilty of breaching a fire safety order.
Two of our cabinet members have written to the Secretary of State for Education to express the council’s views on the state of Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) support nationally and to propose necessary changes to the system.
Firefighters have issued a warning following a fire at a property in Chichester which was caused by lithium-ion batteries left on charge.
Three children’s homes we run have been commended by Ofsted for the quality of care they are providing children and young people.
Local health leaders want residents to share what matters to them about the NHS, and where further improvement is needed. A survey is running until 7 September to collect your views and experiences about health services in Sussex.

did you know

You can do so much online via our West Sussex Record Office website and eLibrary. Find out what new and improved digital services are available.

Did you receive this eNewsletter from a friend? Sign up here.

Chichester District Council - District Dispatch

District Dispatch

21

August 2025

District Dispatch

I’m pleased to say that the council has now adopted its ambitious new Climate Emergency Action Plan, which sets out a range of actions and projects that we will take forward and deliver over the next five years.

Lat year, we ran our ‘Let’s Talk: Climate Change’ consultation to gather people’s views on the types of climate change initiatives that they wanted us to prioritise. Over 1,300 people visited the online survey to have their say and the feedback we received was vital in helping us develop our new plan. I’d like to thank everyone who helped shape this important piece of work, which is a real reflection of what people want us to do locally in response to climate change.

The five-year plan was agreed last month and identifies a wide range of actions, including significantly increasing our work to help households cut their energy bills and reduce carbon emissions. This was something that a significant number of people told us that they wanted to see. In our district, the second largest source of emissions is from housing, and this is also the area where we — as a council — can help make one of the biggest differences. We will be taking on a dedicated housing decarbonisation officer who will help people make their homes more energy efficient and use more solar power by providing information and helping people to access funding.

People who responded to our survey were also keen to see the work of our tree officer continue, and so once the current central Government funding for the post ends, this work will be funded by the council. Other projects include looking at opportunities for enabling carbon storage in coastal habitats; using planning policy to increase street tree planting and green travel plans for new developments; developing the network of climate action groups throughout the district; working with schools to encourage debate and action on climate change; and collaborating with other West Sussex councils to look at the work being done to adapt to climate risks facing the area and what additional work needs to be done.

In addition, the plan includes setting up regular networking events for public sector employers and other not-for-profit organisations so they can share knowledge, collaborate on projects, and identify climate change policies for community organisations to easily incorporate into their work. This complements the council’s work to support Small- and Medium-Sized Enterprises to grow their business sustainably, adapt to climate change and set measurable climate-related goals.

The plan also includes actions that the council will take to reduce its own emissions. This includes looking for a suitable lower carbon fuel to replace the diesel used by its refuse collection vehicles and looking for a contract with a green electricity provider that offers credible greenhouse gas emission reductions. Both actions would significantly reduce the council’s emissions and set it on the path to be net zero by 2040.

Although there’s no legal requirement for the council to achieve net zero — either through the organisation or in the district — our council declared a climate emergency in 2019. We’re absolutely committed to doing what we can to reduce our own impact on the environment and support others to make effective changes. We also want to seize ‘win-win’ opportunities to improve the urban and natural environment in our area and help with reducing the cost of living long-term.

This plan is about bringing everyone in the district together to help tackle a crisis that affects us all. There are some things that can only be successfully accomplished at a national or international level, but our plan meets the widespread local demand to take the lead on the areas where we have the most influence locally — directly or indirectly — and can make the biggest difference.

To keep up-to-date on climate change initiatives, sign up to our dedicated email newsletter:www.chichester.gov.uk/climatechangenewsletter

Best Wishes

Cllr Jonathan Brown

Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Environmental Strategy at Chichester District Council

Council adopts new Chichester Local Plan

20

August 2025

Date of Release:20 August 2025 Ref:4509

Council adopts new Chichester Local Plan

Chichester District Council has officially adopted the Chichester Local Plan 2021–2039, following approval at a Full Council meeting on Tuesday 19 August.

This marks a significant milestone in shaping the future of the area, setting out a comprehensive vision for the area’s economy; transport and housing needs; environmental and historic protection; community health and wellbeing; and cultural development.

The adopted plan, which covers the area of the Chichester District outside the South Downs National Park, identifies housing requirements and development areas to support economic growth and deliver new homes over the next 14 years. It also includes a wide range of policies addressing areas such as design standards, climate change, and the natural environment.

“This is a major achievement and great news for our area and communities,” says Cllr Bill Brisbane, Cabinet Member for Planning at Chichester District Council. “The Chichester Local Plan has been one of the most complex pieces of work we have ever undertaken. The council has worked incredibly hard to prepare and now adopt the new Local Plan, having faced a number of significant challenges, particularly around roads, wastewater, and water neutrality.

“Planning affects where we live, work and relax; where new shops and community facilities are built; and it protects our historic buildings and the natural environment. The Local Plan addresses all of these issues and more, helping to make Chichester a vibrant and greener area. This gives us the opportunity to create a better future for our residents and businesses.

“Preparing a Local Plan is a difficult and lengthy process, and I would like to thank everyone who has been involved in completing this important piece of work. This includes everyone who has shared their views in the public consultations that we carried out in the lead up to, and throughout, the examination process — your input has played an important role in shaping the plan.”

Adoption of the plan follows completion of an independent examination process, which began in May last year when the council submitted the plan to the Government’s Planning Inspectorate. The Inspectors assessed the plan, supporting evidence, and public feedback, and held a series of public hearings before identifying a number of ‘main modifications’ needed to make the plan ‘sound’. In April and May, the council consulted on these modifications and after reviewing the responses, the Inspectors issued a final report confirming that the plan, with the recommended modifications, is sound, legally compliant, and ready for adoption.

The Local Plan will guide future development and provide the policies against which planning applications will be assessed. It also supports parish councils in preparing neighbourhood plans.

Bill adds: “All Planning Authorities are expected to meet the housing needs figure that is set by central Government for their Local Plan area. This drives the current level of housing supply and the housing requirement, which forms the basis for the Local Plan.

“Given the local challenges we face — particularly around transport infrastructure and environmental constraints — the plan we submitted for examination proposed a housing requirement of around 90% of the government’s housing needs figure for this area. However, based on the evidence, which included representations from National Highways in relation to the A27, the Inspectors concluded that there wasn’t sufficient justification to set a housing requirement lower than the full identified housing need. However, they permitted a stepped requirement, beginning with 575 homes per year as originally proposed by the council, but only for the years up to 2029/30, increasing to 701 per year following this, to enable an average of 638 homes per year over the full plan period.

“The Inspectors agreed that the most suitable location for housing growth is Chichester and the east/west corridor, which is where the majority of the proposed new housing and strategic sites are located within the Local Plan.

“The adopted plan also includes a wide range of robust policies aimed at protecting and conserving our area’s environment and historic character. It places greater emphasis on design standards and includes more policies relating to the natural environment.

“While the plan seeks to use as many brownfield sites as possible for development, our area lacks a legacy of large industrial sites that are suitable for significant levels of brownfield redevelopment. However, where opportunities do exist, for example in the Southern Gateway area, the plan sets out how the council will actively work to utilise these and unlock potential.”

People can find more information about the Chichester Local Plan, at:www.chichester.gov.uk/localplan. Information relating to the examination process, can be found at: www.chichester.gov.uk/localplanexaminationand the Planning Inspectors full report and the Full Council report are both available at: www.chichester.gov.uk/localplanexaminationnews

Fire Service Public Consultation

19

August 2025

A message from the Interim Chief Fire Officer of West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service, Gary Ball:

Good afternoon,

Thank you to all of you who have already taken part in our public consultation on the proposals for our next Community Risk Management Plan and shared your views.

This plan will set out the direction of the fire service for the next four years, and so we are really keen to hear from as many people as possible as part of this public consultation to ensure we are supporting the needs of all residents living and working in our communities.

We are now around half way through our 12 week public consultation period, so if you haven’t yet completed the short online survey I would really encourage you to do so before it closes on September 22 to ensure that we have the widest range of views from our communities as possible.

If you are able to raise awareness of this public consultation with your councillors by sharing this email with them to encourage them to have their say too I really would appreciate any support you are able to provide in helping us spread the message far and wide.

Our consultation can be completed online, or by filling out a paper copy of the consultation. If you would like a paper copy, please either email yourfireservice@westsussex.gov.uk or 01243 786211 and one will be sent out.

Thank you,

Gary

South Downs News - August 2025

12

August 2025

See Attachment Below

WSCC Road Closure date notification - A286 The Grinch West Dean to Colworth Farm

01

August 2025

Dear Stakeholder,

Please be advised that the below roads are due to be closed on the dates and times specified for Carriageway Surface Dressing . An alternative route for traffic will be signed on site. Please note that these works are weather dependant, we will endeavour to inform you should there be significant changes to the programme.

This road closure is covered by the 14.1 order made on 11^th January 2025.

Road Name	Location	Date (from and to)	Timing of Closure (eg, 24hr, off peak 09:30 to 16:00, Night 08:00 to 06:00)
The Grinch, West Dean	Entire Road: A286 to Colworth Farm [end of highway]	18th-22nd August	08:00-18:00

Highways, Transport and Planning - News and Updates

31

July 2025

HTP members header graphic image

In this newsletter you'll find out about our new Road Safety Strategy, EV ChargePoint for Community landowners Webinar, the Annual Grit Audit and much more.

West Sussex Highways report highlights County Council’s proactive approach to road maintenance

A recent report, which has been published on the council’s website, outlines West Sussex County Council’s continued commitment and investment in the county’s highways along with detailing its preventative approach to highways maintenance.

The report has been produced in response to the requirement from the Department for Transport (DfT) for all local highways authorities to publish information about their highways maintenance activities to help local taxpayers see the difference that funding is making in their areas.

Cllr Joy Dennis, WSCC Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport, said: “I hope that this report will help our residents to understand that the scale of the county’s highway assets is substantial and managing them effectively, so that residents and businesses can go about their daily lives with minimal disruption, is no small task.”

Read more

New Road Safety Strategy aiming to reduce death and serious injury on West Sussex roads

Road safety strategy

West Sussex County Council has updated its Road Safety Strategy to encourage all road users to prioritise road safety, so that fewer people will be killed or seriously injured in collisions on its roads. After holding a public consultation, the strategy has been developed to influence behaviour and create a safer road network for everyone.

Speed management because evidence from national police data shows that going too fast is the main cause of collisions and makes death or serious injury more likely in a crash.

Planning and designing safer roads and using technology to prevent collisions and protect those most at risk.

Encouraging all road users to prioritise road safety when they travel.

Find out more

EV ChargePoint for Community landowners Webinar

We are pleased to invite you to our next webinar on Microsoft Teams on Wednesday 30 June at 1pm - an invite will have been sent to you - aimed at community landowners and parish councils located in West Sussex, to learn more about the exciting progress being made in West Sussex Electric Vehicle (EV) infrastructure. You should have already received an direct calendar invite.

West Sussex County Council, in collaboration with district and borough councils and Connected Kerb, is leading one of the most ambitious EV charging rollouts in the UK; with nearly 1,000 chargers already deployed across the county.

Now we want to let you know how your community can be part of this success.

This session will:

- Introduce the WSCC partnership with Connected Kerb.

- Explain the benefits of the ORCS grant and how it supports EV infrastructure.

- Show how town and parish councils can get involved and access funding.

- Provide a clear roadmap for applying and implementing EV charge points in community car parks.

(Please note: this webinar will discuss the community landowner / parish EV charge points, not on-street sites, or locations).

There will also be time allocated to answer questions at the end of the webinar. Please note this session will be recorded and shared.

Annual Grit Audits – 2025/26

The annual Grit Audits for 2025/26 have now been sent out to Parish and Town Councils with licensed grit bins and hippo bags.

We kindly ask that all relevant councils complete and submit their audits by the outlined deadline of Friday 1^st August 2025, to help us ensure that there is adequate grit supply across the county ahead of the winter season.

If you have any questions or queries regarding the grit audits or your grit bins/hippo bags, please contact us at Parish-Town.Enquiries@westsussex.gov.uk.

Selsey Pollinator Highway Project

West street verge, selsey pollinator highway

Image taken by Manhood Wildife and Heritage Group

WSCC and the Manhood Wildlife and Heritage Group are working in partnership to link together habitats for our all important pollinators. The Selsey Pollinator Highway Project was created to restore and increase wild areas that are so needed by pollinators such as bees, moths, butterflies and wasps.

Find out more

Find out about Road Works in your area

Did you know that you can view information about road works on https://one.network/? Find out full details of roadworks taking place in West Sussex including the location, associated diversion routes, the nature of the works being undertaken and who is responsible for the works. There are also links to our public notices for temporary traffic regulation orders such as road closures which give more detailed information on restrictions.

If you create an account you can sign up for email alerts of road works within an specific area. You can choose when you would like to receive the alerts either daily, weekly or monthly.

So next time you are wondering about some road works happening in your area or are planning an important journey, remember one.network – you can find this through our website too if you type ‘Roadworks map’ into the search bar.

Answering your frequently asked questions

Why use surface dressing instead of resurfacing?

A surface dressing treatment is a preventative measure while resurfacing is a corrective treatment.

Before and after example road resurfacing

Surface dressing

We treat a road with surface dressing to extend it's life before it suffers significant damage. We may use it in situations where a road surface might still look to be in reasonable condition.

When used at the right time surface dressing delays the need to do more significant work and is a fast process, so causes comparatively little disruption to residents and road users.

before after resurfacing example

Resurfacing

Resurfacing takes place when the road has significant or structural damage already. The damaged material needs removing and replacing. Resurfacing works are a bigger job than surface treatments and cause more disruption to residents and road users.

For more information visit Road surface dressing - West Sussex County Council

Why is no one on site during roadworks?

There can be many valid reasons why team members may not be visible on-site during roadworks:

Nature of the works - e.g. Gas leak works would have to vent the build-up of toxic gas before it is safe to begin repairs.
Equipment failure - frustrating for all involved but cannot be planned for.
Tarmac plant closure - causes supply delays.
Materials curing such a concrete.
Team members called away to emergency works. Utilities have a finite resource. Therefore, in peak usage times such a winter for gas or summer for water where emergencies are more common due to pressure on services, teams may be removed from planned works to attend to emergencies.
Waiting for a different team - similar to emergencies utilities have to plan and use their staffing resource carefully. Therefore, they often have one team to do excavations for all works, a separate team to complete repairs and a third who completes reinstatements. This means there is a small amount of downtime between each team arriving and completing their section of works.
Waiting for another utility to arrive - if the gang have discovered a leak for example or if they have accidentally damaged another utilities equipment.
Lunch break - work regulations apply to sites.
Working hours - Traffic management may be needed 24hrs a day due to open excavations however if area is residential then team members are bound by Environmental Health regulations on working times.

Make an enquiry or report a problem with a road or pavement

Riparian Toolkit

We are pleased to announce the launch of the new Riparian Toolkit designed to support you with watercourse/riparian matters in your area. If you have not yet received your copy, please do contact us at Parish-Town.Enquiries@westsussex.gov.uk and we will email it to you.

The toolkit provides readily accessible information and resources on topics such as:

Riparian ownership and responsibilities
Guidance on managing vegetation
Contact details for relevant agencies

We believe this resource will help you when assisting residents with watercourse enquiries.

ditches

Scheme Updates

A new shared use path at Lancing beach

WSCC has installed a new segregated cycle path alongside the Perch Cafe in Lancing, connecting the existing shared pedestrian and cycle path at either end of this new section. This safety improvement focuses on reducing conflict between user groups on a busy section of the National Cycle Route (2), whilst still ensuring the public’s enjoyment of the local area.

In addition, cycle facilities were also installed, including inclusive cycle stands and cycle aids, while priority was provided for cyclists at the intersections, encouraging free flow movement for cyclists and pedestrians alike.

Efforts were made to increase awareness of the existing Public Rights of Way (PROW) network by introducing a new all weather path, and the removal of steps to further improve accessibility for mobility-challenged users. Several memorial benches were strategically relocated on Lancing Green, making access to them easier. Additionally, the existing path adjacent to The Perch will be resurfaced to enhance usability and extend its lifespan.

Lancing coastal path

Image credit: Landbuild

Essential road, drains and bridge maintenance works on the A23 in Crawley

On Wednesday 23 July/In July West Sussex County Council will start work/started work to refurbish the Crawley bypass railway bridge and to improve the traffic signals and drainage network on the A23 Crawley Avenue near the Ifield Community College junction in Crawley. As part of the works the road will then be resurfaced.

The works are expected to last for eleven weeks until October, dependent on external factors such as weather. They will be coordinated in phases with most of the work scheduled during the school summer holidays to keep traffic disruption to a minimum. Traffic management will maintain the flow of traffic during any necessary lane or road closures.

More information can be found on one.network and our website.

A23 crawley avenue

Planned works to refurbish signalised crossing in Chichester

Works to refurbish signalised toucan crossing at Westhampnett Road near Barnfield Drive, Chichester to start from 4 August 2025 for approximately 3 weeks.

The existing crossing equipment has reached the end of its service life and now requires replacement to ensure continued safe and reliable operation. For safety of workers on site, the road will be closed to northbound traffic, while southbound traffic will still be allowed through. A diversion will be in place, directing northbound vehicles east along Portfield Way, then north on the Chichester bypass, and south on Westhampnett Road.

The works will generally be undertaken during the hours of 9:30 am and 3:30 pm but the road closure and temporary traffic lights will remain in place during the week. Access to the crematorium will be maintained at all times but will only be accessible by heading southbound on Westhampnett Road and/or using the diversion route.

Planned works westhampnett

Shoreham Active Travel Improvements

Following a public consultation in June 2024, improvements to provide safer active travel to Buckingham Park Primary School was agreed. WS Highways are delivering these improvements in 3 phases.

Phase 1 is now complete:

Installation of a parallel crossing on Upper Shoreham Road near The Drive and Buckingham Road junctions.
A segregated cycle path on the northbound spur at the Buckingham Road and Upper Shoreham Road junction.
Cycle bypasses in the buildouts on Middle Road.

Phase 2: Works will begin on 22 July 2025 for approximately 6 weeks during summer holidays, focusing on new pedestrian crossings, a shared cycle/pedestrian path near Buckingham Primary School, and junction realignment at Windlesham Road. Temporary traffic signals will be in place. Access to school will be maintained throughout the duration of the works.

Phase 3: To minimize disruption amid other network works, Carriageway Resurfacing and replacing road markings outside Buckingham Park School will take place during October half term from 27 to 31 October 2025 under a full road closure of Buckingham Road near the school. The bus stop outside no. 56/58 will be moved to outside no. 54 to improve safety for passengers getting on and off.

Phase 1: new traffic island and cycle lane on upper shoreham road, shoreham-by-sea

Community Highway Scheme in East Grinstead

The Community Highway Scheme at Del La Warr Road in East Grinstead is has been delivered to improve existing crossing facilities and create a new pedestrian link to popular local amenities. The works were included in two phases and included construction of:

new section of footway with retaining wall
raised table crossing point
carriageway and footway resurfacing
renewal of road markings
installation of cleft fencing

New pedestrian link at del la warr road, east grinstead

Work to restore key local pedestrian link at Whites Footbridge set to begin

West Sussex County Council will soon begin work to replace the closed Whites Footbridge near Steyning, restoring a vital pedestrian route between Upper Beeding and Steyning. The project is planned to start on 14 July 2025 and is expected to take approximately 12 weeks.

Upcoming works include demolishing the existing bridge and building a new footbridge, alongside completing footpath resurfacing on the east side of the river as part of the White Bridge Link project. These upgrades will create a durable, all-weather pedestrian route between Upper Beeding and Steyning, improving accessibility and safety year-round. The bridge replacement is funded by the council’s capital budget, while footpath improvements are supported by the Wilson Memorial Trust and a local community group. Click here for further details.

Keep up to date

Did you know you can get gritter alerts, grass cutting updates and up to date information on road issues on WhatsApp? You can follow silently or opt for alerts to notify you when we share an update. To find us open WhatsApp and select "Updates" from the bottom menu, then simply search for WSHighways or click the link - WSHighways.

X & Bluesky

Updates on emergency reports are posted every day and project updates are posted frequently on the West Sussex Highways X @WSHighways, and Bluesky @wshighways.bsky.social accounts.

Produced by the Customer Liaison Officer, Highways Transport and Planning. Please contact active.communities@westsussex.gov.uk with any comments or suggestions.

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Latest news and events from across the Chichester District - Initiatives Newsletter

Latest news and events from across the Chichester District- Initiatives Newsletter

31

July 2025

Your monthly news update from Chichester District Council

August 2025

Welcome to the August issue of initiatives+

This newsletter is issued every month with the latest news and events in our area, details of schemes and projects that will benefit our residents and businesses, as well as relevant national and local updates.

Enjoy local produce

Don't forget to enjoy fresh local and seasonal food from our Chichester Farmers' Market, which runs on 1 and 15 August. A wide range of stalls will be selling fruit and vegetables, meat, cheese, fish, honey, eggs and more! Head to East Street in Chichester city centre, 9am-2pm. Find out more on our events and markets Facebook page

Shaping West Sussex - have
your say

Residents, businesses and community groups across West Sussex are being asked for their views on the future of their local councils as part of an important survey Please make sure that you have your say by 11.59pm on Wednesday 13 August.

Fun on two wheels!

Our ‘Skate, Scoot and Bike’ event will return to Chichester Skatepark on Sunday 10 August. The event runs 11am–4pm behind Westgate Leisure Centre. Enjoy exciting displays by top experts and the chance to try out different disciplines. Find out more

Emergency Services Day

Head to Oaklands Park in Chichester for an Emergency Services and Community Day on Sunday 24 August. This free event has been organised by West Sussex Fire and Rescue and runs 10am–4pm. Enjoy live demonstrations, music, entertainment, activities and stalls for all the family.

Refurbished play areas open!

Refurbishment works at Priory Park and Parklands play areas in Chichester have been finished ready for youngsters to enjoy. Find out more information.

More public toilet refurbishments

A further eight public toilet facilities in the district are to be refurbished starting in spring 2026. Works will include improving the overall energy efficiency of each site, aiming to add LED lights and more efficient equipment. Where possible, solar panels will also be added. Each facility will be updated to meet the latest accessibility requirements. Find out more

Join the CDC Facebook channel

We recently launched a channel on Facebook Messenger and more than 500 people have already joined! The channel is another way for us to help share updates on events, consultations and important news. Join now

Shippam's exhibition family events this summer

Enjoy a series of Shippam’s-themed family events this summer at The Novium Museum in Chichester, to accompany their new ‘Hurrah for Shippam’s’ exhibition. Create a hanging mobile, design a poster and make your own colourful Jarvis the Jar character. Sessions are free, no booking needed - just drop in. Find out dates and times

Could your organisation take on one of our assets?

Local organisations across our district are invited to apply for the transfer of certain council-owned buildings and other assets. Councillors recently agreed a Community Asset Transfer policy, setting out which buildings and assets are available for transfer, who can apply, and the terms and conditions that they must meet to be considered. Find out more about the assets eligible for transfer

Other local news

Keep up-to-date on all the latest council news at: www.chichester.gov.uk/latestnews

Here you can find the latest media releases and you’ll also find the latest District Dispatch column, and previous issues of our newsletter that you may have missed.

Share this with a friend

Please encourage your friends and family to sign up to this newsletter at: www.chichester.gov.uk/newsalerts

Chichester District Council - Local Government Re-Organisation

29

July 2025

Hello All

We want to let you know that our local government reorganisation engagement survey is now live at: www.shapingwestsussex.org. Please make sure that you take part in our survey to help shape the future of local government in West Sussex. The survey is open until 11.59pm on Wednesday 13 August. We would also be grateful if you could help us to promote this to friends, family, colleagues, residents, community groups and businesses. If you would like any promotional assets – including social media graphics, leaflets or posters - please let us know and we will send them through.

We have also attached the prospectus pack, which provides more detail on the options. This is also available for people to look at on our www.shapingwestsussex.org platform.

If you have any questions or need any further help, please don’t hesitate to let me know.

Many thanks

Sarah

Sarah J Parker
Communications Manager
Communications
Chichester District Council

Road Closure date notification - various locations commencing on 30th September North Chichester

28

July 2025

Dear Stakeholder,

Please be advised that the locations detailed below have been requested for closure on the dates and times specified for carriageway stud replacement.

Permits have now been granted and the details have been populated inone.network

The proposed dates detailed in the previous email could not be granted as there was another application granted for the road space and collaboration was not possible.

An alternative route for traffic will be signed on site.

Please note that these works are weather dependant, we will endeavour to inform you should there be significant changes to the programme.

This road closure is covered by the 14.1 order made on 11^th January 2025.

Road Name	Location	Date (from and to)	Timing of Closure (eg, 24hr, day 08:00 to 18:00, Night 20:00 to 06:00)

A286 BINDERTON LANE TO CHURCH LANE	Binderton Lane to Cobblers Row	30th September to 4th October	20:00 – 06:00
A286 CEMETERY LANE TO VICARAGE LANE	Binderton Lane to Cobblers Row	30th September to 4th October	20:00 – 06:00
A286 TOWN LANE TO THE GROVE	Binderton Lane to Cobblers Row	30th September to 4th October	20:00 – 06:00
A286 THE GRINCH TO TOWN LANE	Binderton Lane to Cobblers Row	30th September to 4th October	20:00 – 06:00
A286 VICARAGE LANE TO THE GRINCH	Binderton Lane to Cobblers Row	30th September to 4th October	20:00 – 06:00
A286 CHILGROVE ROAD TO BINDERTON LANE	The Drive to Binderton Lane	30th September to 4th October	20:00 – 06:00
LAVANT ROAD	The Drive to Binderton Lane	30th September to 4th October	20:00 – 06:00
YARBROOK	The Drive to Binderton Lane	30th September to 4th October	20:00 – 06:00
A286 OLDWICK MEADOWS TO SHEEPWASH LANE	The Drive to Binderton Lane	30th September to 4th October	20:00 – 06:00
A286 SHEEPWASH LANE TO WEST STOKE ROAD	The Drive to Binderton Lane	30th September to 4th October	20:00 – 06:00

You can find more details on surface dressing treatments and the stages involved on our website: Road surface dressing - West Sussex County Council

If you have any questions regarding this specific closure, please reply to this email directly.

Further information can also be found viaone.network

The Valley Diary - August 2025

28

July 2025

Please see file attached.

Chichester District Council - Issue 6 Devolution and Local Government Reorganisation Newsletter July 2025

07

July 2025

Please see attachment below.

WSCC Summer Special - Supporting Your Health and Wellbeing

02

July 2025

Health & Wellbeing Summer 2025 Edition eNewsletter

Summer special health header image

Welcome to our Health and Wellbeing Summer Special eNewsletter!

With summer now in full swing, we’ve got some helpful tips and online resources to support you and your family's health and wellbeing as well as information on where to get further support in your local area.

Summer safety

Keeping safe this summer

Long, sunny days are great for trips out with family and friends — but heat, fire and water hazards can quickly spoil the fun.

A little forward planning helps keep everyone, including pets, safe and well this summer. Our keeping safe this summer pages include advice on:

Heat alerts and heat safety.
Hydration.
Checking up — looking out for friends, family, neighbours, pets and animals.
Your health, including sun safety, sexual health, and tick awareness.
Fire safety and summer fire safety advice.
Water safety.
Festivals — planning before attending events.
Travelling abroad and travel vaccinations — speak to your GP or practice nurse for general advice about travel vaccinations and travel health, such as protecting yourself from malaria. You can also pick up free condoms from your local sexual health hub, or if you are aged under 25 you can order them for free online. Sexually transmitted infection (STI) tests (chlamydia, gonorrhoea, syphilis, and HIV) can also be ordered online ahead of travel.

How to keep safe this summer

Smokefree west sussex

Don't delay: quit smoking today

You’re three times more likely to quit smoking for good with the right support, even if you’ve tried to quit in the past. What's more; the summer holidays can be a great time to do it, with a change of routine and no-smoking flights offering the perfect opportunity to quit for good.

In West Sussex we have a team of specialist stop smoking advisors who can offer free, non-judgemental support and the right quit aids. For more information, visit our stop smoking services page, call 0330 222 7980 or download the Smokefree app to access free support today.

Quit for good

e-Wellbeing hub

Support for mental wellbeing

If you or someone you know is struggling with their mental wellbeing, for example anxiety, stress or low mood, there’s support available 24/7.

Text SUSSEX to 85258 for free, confidential support at any time of day or night. You'll be connected to a trained volunteer who can help you feel heard and supported. This service is provided by Shout.

You’re never alone in how you feel — help is just a message away.

Online resources and support:

A dedicated hub called e-Wellbeing offers free mental health resources and self-care tips for children and young people aged 13 to 25, and for adults (aged 25+). So if you’re looking for help managing your wellbeing, such as managing anxiety, improving sleep or dealing with stress, you’ll find clear, trusted advice.

Visit the e-Wellbeing hub for 13 to 25 year olds

Visit the e-Wellbeing hub for those aged 25+

Cervical screening

Too busy for cancer? Get screened!

Last month was Cervical Screening Awareness Week and we're continuing to recommend those aged 25 to 64 take up the offer of regular cervical screening (sometimes called a smear test), which is carried out at GP practices. Cervical screening checks the health of your cervix and is effective in detecting abnormal changes before they can turn into cancer.

Pre-cancers rarely cause symptoms, which is why regular cervical screening is important. Even if you’ve had the Human Papillomavirus Vaccine (HPV) it’s important that you still attend your cervical screening, because the vaccine doesn’t provide protection against all strains of HPV. The HPV vaccination protects against the human papillomavirus, which can cause cervical cancer and other types of cancer. Detecting cancer early can save lives, as it’s often easier to treat and has a better chance of being cured at an early stage.

If you missed your last cervical screening invitation, it’s not too late, you can still book an appointment with your GP practice. Screening saves lives. Please don’t wait.

More information on cervical cancer screening

more news

Head to our Newsroom to find all the latest news from your council. In the meantime, here are some reminders of services and resources to support a healthy lifestyle.

Alcohol Awareness Week is taking place from 7 to 13 July, and is a great opportunity to take the online DrinkCoach test to understand your risk. It's safest not to drink more than 14 units a week, spread over three or more days and with a few days off (14 units is equivalent to 6 pints of average-strength beer or 10 small glasses of lower-strength wine). If you're pregnant, the safest option is not to drink at all.
Drinking too much alcohol can increase the risk of liver disease, cancer, heart problems, and mental health issues. Take control now by visiting Call the Shots on Alcohol and find out about free local support from West Sussex Wellbeing.
Check out all the weight management services available in West Sussex by visiting the West Sussex Wellbeing website. This includes information on our free weight management courses and support.
Do you or someone you know use a telecare alarm?Landline phones are switching to digital, which could stop telecare alarms working. The switchover is already happening, so you need to act now. If you or someone you know uses a telecare alarm, call the landline provider now for support. Visit the Digital Phone Switchover website to find out more.

Have your say subject header

Your pharmacy services
In February, we asked you to tell us about your experience with local pharmacy services to help us to understand how residents and communities use them. These comments and suggestions helped to inform a draft Pharmaceutical Needs Assessment (PNA), which is a statement of needs for pharmaceutical service provision within the area. We are seeking your feedback on the draft PNA; the consultation is open until Monday 28 July at 11.55pm. To have your say please visit our website.

Young people's voices
We're asking all young people in West Sussex to tell us what they think about leisure-time activities that they may do in their free time. If you know someone aged 11 to 19 years old (or up to 24 years old with a learning difficulty or disability) please ask them to take part to help shape activities across West Sussex. Fill out our survey by Sunday 6 July 2025 and enter our free prize draw to win a £20 voucher.

did you know

Smiles month

Looking after teeth from an early age is key to preventing dental issues down the road. If your child experiences a dental emergency like a knocked-out tooth or severe toothache, don’t wait — seek immediate care. You can access urgent dental services through the NHS Sussex Emergency Dental Service. You can also read our tips for looking after children’s teeth for more information.

Did you receive this eNewsletter from a friend? Sign up here.

South Downs Planning Newsletter

01

May 2025

Download a PDF version of the planning newsletter here

Welcome to the spring 2025 planning newsletter for the South Downs National Park Authority. In this edition you can find useful updates on planning approvals, enforcement action, the Local Plan Review, as well as find out more about some of the people working behind the scenes in planning at the National Park. We hope you find the update informative and interesting.

Spring is such a wonderful time in the National Park and the joy of the season is captured by Rob Carter with this amazing image of a fox cub in South Downs woodland.

Green light for farm and pathway plans

The future of a 17^th century listed barn has been secured and a new public right of way will be created as part of a farm redevelopment in the National Park.

The Planning Committee voted to grant approval to plans for a new farmyard at Grace’s Farm, Martyr Worthy, to help secure the future of the three-generation family farm. Find out more here.

Planning approval brings boost to wetland

Much-needed improvements to encourage more birdlife at RSPB Pulborough Brooks have been given the green light by the Authority.

Members of the Planning Committee voted unanimously to approve plans to install four new hydrological structures to help control water levels and ensure areas don’t dry out. Learn more here.

High Court action is taken after breaches

A prison sentence has been narrowly avoided after a woman was taken to the High Court for repeated planning breaches in the National Park.

The conviction comes after a long-running enforcement case – led by the South Downs National Park Authority and Winchester City Council – dating back to 2018. Find out more.

Core and balance - not pilates, but planning...

A few thoughts of the day from Tim Slaney, Director of Planning at the South Downs National Park Authority. Here Tim discusses why core and balance are so important in planning.

What's new in the Local Plan Review?

The first public consultation on the Local Plan Review closed on 17 March. Here's an updatefrom Claire Tester, Planning Policy Manager for the National Park Authority.

UPDATES FROM PLANNING POLICY

The team share some of the latest news around policy in the National Park.

Partnership Management Plan: Planning Principles

Alongside the Local Plan Review we are also updating the Partnership Management Plan, which sets out the wider priorities for the South Downs National Park for the next five years and how we will work together with partners to achieve this shared vision. This is being prepared in accordance with new Government guidance, which requires the inclusion of ‘planning principles’ within the Partnership Management Plan.

This is an opportunity for us to demonstrate the key role that the planning function plays in delivering the purposes and duty of the National Park. Its role in land use and land management is crucial to the look and feel of the place and its communities, and is one of the key means of delivering on the vision, aims and objectives of the Partnership Management Plan. The planning principles will guide the content of future planning policy documents and the determination of planning applications, and demonstrate how they link back to the Partnership Management Plan. Consultation on this draft Partnership Management Plan, including the planning principles, will take place in summer 2025, see more details here.

Authority Monitoring Report

This year’s Authority Monitoring Report was published in April 2025, and reports on the financial year 2023-24. This report considers the performance of planning policies in the adopted South Downs Local Plan, and identifies trends against various indicators. It is available on our website and headline results here:

Partial Update of Hampshire Minerals & Waste Plan

The Hampshire Authorities (Hampshire County Council, South Downs National Park Authority, New Forest National Park Authority, Southampton City Council and Portsmouth City Council) are working on a partial update to their Minerals & Waste Local Plan which will guide minerals and waste decision making in Hampshire up to 2040. This is currently at examination stage and hearings took place during February. The next stage is to publish modifications to the Plan to address issues raised by the Inspector. It is anticipated that this consultation will take place in summer 2025.

Community Planning

The Peacehaven and Telscombe Neighbourhood Development Plan is currently at Examination.
The East Dean and Friston Neighbourhood Development Plan has been formally submitted to the Authority and the Regulation 16 consultation will take place once a legal check has been undertaken by SDNPA officers.
The Bramshott and Liphook Neighbourhood Development Plan was “made” part of the statutory development plan in December 2024.
The Modified Boxgrove Neighbourhood Development Plan was subject to a Regulation 14 consultation between January and March 2025.
The West Saltdean Neighbourhood Development Plan was subject to a Regulation 16 public consultation between January and March 2025.
The proposed designations of the Ovingdean Neighbourhood Area and Ovingdean Neighbourhood Forum are out to public consultation until 14 May 2025
The Upham Village Design Statement was adopted in March 2025.

Update on Bird Aware Solent Strategy

Background information

The Solent Coast is designated a Special Protection Area for its bird species. Research has shown that increase in new homes and the subsequent increase of visitors to the coast will cause disturbance to birds. Around 147,500 new homes are anticipated around the Solent up to 2050.
All new residential developments (with a net increase in homes) within this zone are required to mitigate the potential negative impact of the development.
The long-established Bird Aware Solent Strategy aims to mitigate the likely impact of bird disturbance arising from new homes in the area. It focuses on educating people about the birds and encouraging positive behaviour change. The measures and monitoring of their effectiveness are funded by developer contributions for new homes built within 5.6km of the Special Protection Area.
A small part of the South Downs National Park lies within the 5.6km zone.

What’s new?

After a comprehensive, robust and positive review, Bird Aware is extending the scope of its work to include protected breeding birds who are on parts of our coast during the summer months. This is in response to the findings of a review of the likelihood of increased recreation from new housing impacting breeding birds. The Revised Strategy provides mitigation that allows house building to continue in the Solent area.
Following a detailed financial review of the updated strategy, there will be no increase in developer contributions towards mitigation costs and annual inflationary increases will continue as usual. It remains an opt-in Strategy and developers are still able to provide their mitigation requirements through a bespoke scheme if they choose.
It came into effect for planning permissions granted from 1 April 2025.More information here.

Biodiversity Net Gain Technical Advice Note

Our Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) TAN was updated and published in March.
This was a comprehensive review, taking account of legislative and policy changes and emerging best practice and professional understanding over the first year of mandatory BNG.
The TAN provides guidance on how BNG is to be achieved in the South Downs National Park now in accordance with existing South Downs Local Plan Policy, and how BNG should meaningfully contribute to nature recovery.
The update has focused on building on the overarching principles on how meaningful BNG will be delivered a protected landscape context, more information on how to support your planning applications, and expansion of guidance about securing BNG. The updated TAN can be found here.

Biodiversity scheme off to flying start

Efforts to create a huge new wildlife haven in the National Park through private investment are well under way.

Over 50 hectares of the Iford Estate – or 80 football pitches – have now been formally dedicated to nature restoration, thanks to two groundbreaking legal agreements with the National Park Authority.

Iford has just signed a second Section 106 agreement with the Authority, bringing the East Sussex estate a step closer to its vision of devoting two thirds of the estate to nature. The 18.75 hectares of new space for nature comes on top of the 31.8 hectares dedicated to wildlife in 2023. Learn more.

Buy biodiversity credits

Funding boost for education and play facilities

Learning and play opportunities for children are being boosted by funding administered by the National Park Authority.

Droxford Junior School was awarded over £37,000 funding from the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) to provide new play and outdoor education facilities. Meanwhile, Greatham Parish Council was awarded £90,000 in CIL funding for the creation of an inclusive, accessible playground at Greatham Village Hall. Learn more.

Investing in the future of building conservation

The National Park Authority is helping to support the next generation of building conservationists.

Young people from across Sussex took part in a Heritage Skills Taster Day at Weald & Downland Living Museum, gaining hands-on experience in traditional building crafts vital to the future of conservation. Find out more.

Year-end planning stats

Appeals submitted to the Planning Inspectorate	99
Appeals started	111
Appeals determined	98
Appeals successfully defended	81
Statutory submissions received	3,952
Statutory submissions received via the Planning Portal	3,403
Statutory submissions determined	4,059
Neighbours notified	18,405
Representations received	5,705
Consultations issued	10,693
Conditions imposed	12,531
Enquiries for planning advice	1,108
Enforcement complaints received	571
Enforcement cases opened	445
Enforcement related site inspections	381
Enforcement notices served	25
Enforcement cases closed	517

Figures cover 1 April 2024 to 31 March 2025

Meet the team....Ali

This edition we catch up with Alison Fordham, Executive Support Officer for Tim Slaney, finding about her day-to-day role, her love of baking and what her idea of a perfect day is!

Dates for the diary

The next Planning Committee meetings will take place on 8 May and 10 July.

The agendas for the meeting will be published here.

Watch the committee meetings live on YouTube

Chichester Local Plan Update

11

April 2025

Your Local Plan update

July 2025

Chichester Local Plan moves to the next stage following Inspectors' report

Chichester District Council has received the Planning Inspectors’ final report for the Chichester Local Plan 2021–2039, marking a significant milestone in the plan’s progress.

The report confirms that the Government’s Planning Inspectorate consider the plan, with their recommended main modifications, to be sound, legally compliant, and ready to be considered for adoption by district councillors. The full report can be viewed at: The Local Plan examination - latest news - Chichester District Council

This milestone marks the end of the examination process, which started in May last year when the plan was submitted for examination. The examination process assesses whether the plan meets legal requirements and national policy, and whether it has been positively prepared, justified, and effective. It also considers how well the council has worked with neighbouring authorities and statutory bodies.

As part of the examination, two Planning Inspectors appointed by the Planning Inspectorate have reviewed the submitted plan, supporting evidence, and feedback from the public consultations that were carried out prior to submission. Following this, the Inspectors led a number of public hearings before identifying a series of ‘main modifications’ needed to make the plan ‘sound’ before it could be considered for adoption. In April this year, the council consulted on these modifications and sent all of the comments received to the Inspectors for consideration.

“I am really pleased that the Planning Inspectors have finished examining our Local Plan and returned their final report for councillors to consider,” says Cllr Bill Brisbane, Cabinet Member for Planning at Chichester District Council.

“Preparing a Local Plan is a complex and lengthy process, and I would like to thank everyone who has been involved in moving this critical piece of work to such an important stage. This includes everyone who has shared their views in the public consultations that we carried out in the lead up to, and throughout, the examination process — your input has played an important role in shaping the plan.”

The next stage will be for the council’s Full Council to consider the Inspectors’ report, with its recommended main modifications, at a meeting on Tuesday 19 August 2025. During this meeting, councillors will decide whether to formally adopt the plan.

The Local Plan identifies housing requirements, development areas for economic growth and locations for new homes in the Chichester plan area over the next 14 years. The Local Plan also has a raft of policies relating to a range of policy areas, including climate change and the natural environment. There is a separate plan for the part of the district located within the National Park and this is produced by the South Downs National Park Authority.

People can find more information about the Chichester Local Plan, including the council’s Statement of Consultation — which summarises the work that has been done to prepare the plan — at: www.chichester.gov.uk/localplan. Links to recordings of all of the examination hearings can be found at: www.chichester.gov.uk/localplanexamination

Keep in touch

By visiting our webpages: www.chichester.gov.uk/localplanreview

You can also sign up to our monthly email newsletter – initiatives + - which covers local news and events: www.chichester.gov.uk/newsalerts

Share this with a friend

Please encourage your friends and family to sign up to this newsletter at: www.chichester.gov.uk/newsalerts

Media release: Council starts to prepare for local government reorganisation

10

April 2025

Council starts to prepare for local government reorganisation

To ensure it is at the forefront of preparations for local government reorganisation, Chichester District Council has made some changes to the way its senior management team will work.

Its current Director of Corporate Services, John Ward, has been made Chief Operating Officer. He will take on the day-to-day management of the council to enable the Chief Executive, Diane Shepherd, to focus on preparing the council for local government reorganisation. Diane will continue to be responsible for the strategic overview of the council’s work, including preparing the council for the changes ahead and will remain the Chief Executive of the council.

To coincide with this, Diane will reduce her hours and will work three days a week from June. She will continue with this arrangement until 31 March 2027, when she will retire after 40 years of working in local government. Following this time, John Ward will then become the Head of Paid Service and will lead the council through the shadow year, before it joins the new unitary authority.

The changes will not increase costs and will result in a small saving to the council.

“We are really pleased that Diane will be leading the council through this transitional period. She is an exceptional leader, who is highly respected amongst our communities, and has she has made a significant contribution to the district and its success over the past 34 years,” says Cllr Adrian Moss, Leader of Chichester District Council.

“These changes will allow her to focus on preparing for this huge change, to ensure that we achieve the very best outcomes for our staff and communities.

“We also know that John will play a vital role in making sure that council services and projects continue to be delivered to a high standard, while the local government reorganisation work moves forward.”

“It has been a privilege to lead this council over the past 13 years and so I am really pleased that I have the opportunity to prepare the council for this next chapter,” says Diane Shepherd, Chief Executive at Chichester District Council. “My priority is to achieve the very best options and outcomes for our staff, councillors and communities under the new authority. It’s also fitting that after working at the council for 34 years, I have the opportunity to mark the end of my career here, at a place that has given me so many opportunities and memories.”

The government has stated that it wants all areas of the country to have unitary councils, with each serving an average of 500,000 residents. This is likely to result in the creation of one or two unitary councils within West Sussex. This would mean all of the existing councils moving into the new unitary councils. Each area has until 26 September this year to submit detailed proposals.

In Sussex, the timeline is for the unitary authorities to be ready in shadow form in 2027, and for the new councils to come into effect in 2028. People can find out more about devolution and local government reorganisation by visiting:www.chichester.gov.uk/devolution

Devolution and Local Government Reorganisation newsletter - March 2025

25

March 2025

Please see file attached.

Singleton and Charlton Parish Council - Meeting Dates for 2025

Singleton and Charlton Parish Council - Meeting Dates for 2024

21

February 2025

Singleton and Charlton Parish Council

Meeting Dates for 2025

Meetings are held in Singleton Village Hall at 7pm

Annual PC Meeting & Annual Parish Meeting

Held in Singleton Cricket Club at 7pm

Full Parish Council Meeting Monday 20^th January 2025

Full Parish Council Meeting Monday 17th March 2025

Full Annual Parish Council Meeting Monday 19th May 2025

And Annual Parish Meeting Singleton Cricket Club

Full Parish Council Meeting Monday 21st July 2025

Full Parish Council Meeting Wednesday 17th September 2025

Full Parish Council Meeting Wednesday 19^th November 2025

Singleton and Charlton Parish Council - Village Design Statement

19

September 2024

Please see attachment below.

Drone Regulations

05

August 2024

Drones

Drone Classes and Subcategories

The UK drone legislation divides drones into three main classes: A1, A2, and A3. Each class has its own set of rules and regulations.

A1 Subcategory: Fly over people, but not over crowds. This subcategory includes drones with a flying weight of less than 250g.

A2 Subcategory: Fly close to people. This subcategory includes drones with a flying weight of 250g to 2kg.

A3 Subcategory: Fly far from people. This subcategory includes drones with a flying weight of less than 25kg.

Registration and Competency

To operate a drone in the UK, you need to register it with the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) and obtain a Competency Certificate (CofC).

Registration: You need to register your drone if it weighs between 250g and 25kg or has a camera. You can register your drone online through the CAA website.

Competency Certificate: You need to obtain a CofC if you want to fly a drone in the A2 or A3 subcategory. The CofC requires you to pass an online test and demonstrate your understanding of drone safety and regulations.

Operating Areas and Restrictions

There are certain areas where drone flying is restricted or prohibited. These areas include:

Airports: You cannot fly a drone within 5.5 kilometers of an airport or any area designated as a restricted airspace.

National Parks: You need to obtain permission from the park authority before flying a drone in a national park.

Military Areas: You need to obtain permission from the military authority before flying a drone in a military area.

Crowded Areas: You cannot fly a drone over crowded areas, such as sports events or festivals.

Safety Considerations

When flying a drone in the UK, you need to consider the following safety factors:

Height: You cannot fly a drone above 120 meters.

Distance: You need to maintain a minimum distance of 50 meters from people and buildings.

Speed: You cannot fly a drone at a speed greater than 50 knots (93 km/h).

Weather: You cannot fly a drone in bad weather conditions, such as strong winds or low visibility.

Penalties for Non-Compliance

If you fail to comply with the UK drone legislation, you may face penalties, including:

Fine: You may be fined up to £1,000 for flying a drone without permission.

Prison Sentence: You may be sentenced to up to 5 years in prison for flying a drone recklessly or negligently.

Drone Confiscation: Your drone may be confiscated if you are found to be flying it illegally.

The Drone and Model Aircraft Code - Attached below.

Annual Parish Meeting - Southern Water Presentations

24

May 2024

Please find attached Southern Water Presentations

Media release: Council agrees funding for vital river restoration projects in Chichester District

22

May 2024

Date of Release: 22 May 2024 Ref: 4330

Council agrees funding for vital river restoration projects in Chichester District

Projects aimed at restoring three of the Chichester District’s rare river habitats have received a boost after councillors agreed to help fund them.

At a Chichester District Council meeting on Tuesday 21 May, councillors agreed to invest £180,000 over the next three years, as part of two projects being led by the Western Sussex Rivers Trust (WSRT), formerly known as theArun and Rother Rivers Trust (ARRT), to help restore the River Lavant and also the Ems and the Hambrook.

The money will part-fund two posts. One post will work on furthering a restoration plan for the Ems and the Hambrook. The other will begin work on a similar plan for the Lavant.

“We are delighted to be able to support the Western SussexRivers Trust in their critical work and help fund these key projects,” says Councillor Jonathan Brown, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Environmental Strategy at Chichester District Council. “The trust approached us for help, and we felt that it was crucial to support them in this way because our contribution will in turn help them to unlock further potential funding from other sources.

“Many people may not be aware but the rivers Ems, Hambrook and Lavant are among only 283 chalk streams and rivers in the world. These are globally significant but very rare habitats and are almost exclusively found in the south of England. None of these rivers has official protection but we are seeking to gain better protection for them through the Chichester Local Plan and its Strategic Wildlife Corridors policy.We appreciate that this isn’t enough on its own and that significant recovery work also needs to take place.

“Sadly, these rivers are now suffering from the effects of a number of activities including: pollution; habitat loss; drought; and, interruptions to their natural processes and flow. In addition, the River Ems is also suffering the effects of over-abstraction, a process where water is removed for domestic, industrial uses and agriculture.

“These chalk streams also feed into the internationally protected Chichester Harbour Special Protection Area and so it is absolutely vital that as a council we do all that we are able to do in order to support their protection and restoration for future generations. These projects will safeguard the future of three of the most significant rivers and streamsin our district which will then also have a positive effect on our harbour.

“Working with our partners on projects such as these is key. Our role is to help facilitate other organisations who have the expertise to enable results that the council wouldn’t be able to achieve on its own.”

The projects are catchment-based plans, so not only would they look at the rivers and streams themselves, but also the whole landscape area that feeds into them.

The work will focus on restoring the natural function in the river channels; tackling invasive non-native species; andriver re-meandering. This is work that creates a new meandering course or reconnects cut-off meander. Thiscan slow down river flow and is also known to have a positive impact on sedimentation and biodiversity.

Alongside this work, the project officers will also work with landowners and the local community to carry out citizen science, which would include a range of activities such as monitoring water quality, biodiversity and encouraging people to report incidents.

Getting the public and local community involved is key to gathering good statistics in order to gain good outcomes. The officers will also run public events to build community engagement and understanding of the issues affecting the rivers — this will feed into finding potential solutions.

The Western Sussex Rivers Trust (WSRT) isone of a national network of river trusts that aim to protect and restore our rivers and streams. The Trust’s area covers nearly all of Chichester and Arun Districts. The trust has been working on a series of catchment-based plans for the restoration of rivers and their tributary streams within Chichester District.

As part of the projects the council will meet regularly with WSRT to monitor progress

Letter from Southern Water

07

May 2024

Please see attachment.

Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks (SSEN)

02

April 2024

Priority Services Register

Please see attachment below.

West Sussex County Council Recycling Centre booking system information

24

January 2024

Please see attachment below.

Book A Bus

03

January 2024

See PDF Below

Singleton and Charlton Parish - Priorities Statement

28

November 2023

Please see attachment below. Submitted to SDNP on 7/11/23.

Singleton and Charlton Parish Council - Flood Advice - Be Prepared

15

November 2023

Please see attached information.

West Sussex Residents eNewsletter

22

Bank holiday then back to school safely

Remembering the Shoreham Airshow disaster victims

Emergency Alerts system test in September

Childhood vaccinations update

New strategy to improve West Sussex residents’ health and wellbeing

Think Before You Throw survey results

Chichester District Council - District Dispatch

21

Council adopts new Chichester Local Plan

20

Fire Service Public Consultation

19

South Downs News - August 2025

12

WSCC Road Closure date notification - A286 The Grinch West Dean to Colworth Farm

01

Highways, Transport and Planning - News and Updates

31

West Sussex Highways report highlights County Council’s proactive approach to road maintenance

New Road Safety Strategy aiming to reduce death and serious injury on West Sussex roads

EV ChargePoint for Community landowners Webinar

Annual Grit Audits – 2025/26

Selsey Pollinator Highway Project

Find out about Road Works in your area

Answering your frequently asked questions

Why use surface dressing instead of resurfacing?

Why is no one on site during roadworks?

Riparian Toolkit

Scheme Updates

A new shared use path at Lancing beach

Essential road, drains and bridge maintenance works on the A23 in Crawley

Planned works to refurbish signalised crossing in Chichester

Shoreham Active Travel Improvements

Community Highway Scheme in East Grinstead

Work to restore key local pedestrian link at Whites Footbridge set to begin

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Latest news and events from across the Chichester District - Initiatives Newsletter

31

August 2025

Welcome to the August issue of initiatives+

Enjoy local produce

Shaping West Sussex - have your say

Fun on two wheels!

Emergency Services Day

Refurbished play areas open!

More public toilet refurbishments

Join the CDC Facebook channel

Shippam's exhibition family events this summer

Could your organisation take on one of our assets?

Other local news

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Chichester District Council - Local Government Re-Organisation

29

Road Closure date notification - various locations commencing on 30th September North Chichester

28

The Valley Diary - August 2025

28

Chichester District Council - Issue 6 Devolution and Local Government Reorganisation Newsletter July 2025

07

WSCC Summer Special - Supporting Your Health and Wellbeing

02

Keeping safe this summer

Don't delay: quit smoking today

Support for mental wellbeing

Too busy for cancer? Get screened!

South Downs Planning Newsletter

01

Green light for farm and pathway plans

Planning approval brings boost to wetland

High Court action is taken after breaches

Core and balance - not pilates, but planning...

Funding boost for education and play facilities

Investing in the future of building conservation

Year-end planning stats

Meet the team....Ali

Dates for the diary

Shaping West Sussex - have
your say