South Downs News - January 2025

South Downs News - January 2025

17

January 2025

January 2025

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WORK AND PLAY IN YOUR NATIONAL PARK

THIS MONTH:

As always please send your comments and ideas to newsletter@southdowns.gov.uk

Click here to read a PDF version of South Downs News

PICTURE OF THE MONTH: January may be known for its "blues", but blue can mean many things - it could be a blue sky or the crystal-clear waters of amazing blue spaces such as the River Meon, as pictured here by Western Downs Ranger (and talented photographer) Andy Reeves. We're being blessed with some cold, sunny days so do make sure you get out into the National Park, if you're able, for a blast of fresh air and those uplifting views!

If you have an amazing seasonal image, please do email us!

Seasonal splendours of the South Downs

Two of Britain’s most iconic birds, a majestic wintry river and the joy of springtime wild garlic in an ancient English woodland are among the winners of the National Park’s Annual Photo Competition.

Photographer Piers Fearick was a double winner, taking both the first and runner-up prize in the National Park’s ever-popular wildlife category by capturing the beauty of a yellowhammer and wren in the South Downs.

The theme for the main competition was “Stunning Seasons of the South Downs” and judges were treated to an incredible assortment of images showing off the changing landscape, treescape, weather and light conditions throughout the year. This year saw a record number of entries, with over 800 photographs.

Find out all the winners here!

Vote for your favourite in The People's Choice

Have your say on the Local Plan Review!

An eight-week consultation begins this month as the National Park invites people to have their say on how and where development takes place.

The award-winning South Downs Local Plan is being reviewed to ensure it’s up-to-date and addresses important issues such as nature recovery, climate change, affordable housing and helping local communities thrive.

The public consultation of the Local Plan Review starts on 20 January and will run until 17 March. This is the main opportunity for people to help shape the final Plan, so we're encouraging the public to get involved. Learn more here and find out about our engagement events.

Get involved and have your say

Funding of £2m for community projects

Cycle path improvements, new toilets, a school extension, wildlife viewing platform and the restoration of a historic walled garden are among the community projects to benefit from a major funding boost from the South Downs National Park Authority.

To kick off 2025 the National Park is announcing 27 projects across Sussex and Hampshire that will receive a share of just over £1.9m. Find out more and see the full list of schemes.

Dark Skies Festival is back! Dates for your diary

It’s nearly time to embrace the darkness!

Our ever-popular Dark Skies Festival returns next month, with 11 days of events and activities celebrating the dark skies of the Soithwildlife that lives here.wildlife that lives here.

This year’s theme is “glimmers” and we’ll be celebrating the sparkling lights of stars, planets, meteors and moons in the night sky, the bioluminescence of glowworms and biofluorescence of other life, and linking this to becoming aware of those small, positive moments in our lives that encourage feelings of happiness, wonder and awe.

Here are some key dates for the diary and the full brochure with every event and activity will be coming out later this month. Some events have to be booked, while others you can just turn up!

Activities will include stargazing through large telescopes, talks, storytelling, a “Walk The Planets” trail, night walks and runs, craft activities, podcasts and lots more.

Please note that all in person events are subject to cancellation at short notice due to weather conditions. The full brochure will be available here.

Trevor's MBE honour

Trevor Beattie, the long-serving former Chief Executive of the South Downs National Park Authority, is receiving an MBE for his services to the natural environment.

Trevor retired just over a year ago and was quite surprised to receive the good news that he was part of the New Year's Honours list. Find out more here.

It's National Dog Walking Month!

Olivia French, Heathlands Engagement Lead, encourages responsible dog walking and explains why picking up dog poo is so important to help protect sensitive habitats such as South Downs heaths.

Find out more from Olivia here.

Community nature group are the bee's knees

A group of community volunteers have won two coveted awards for their stellar efforts to create much-needed habitat for wildlife.

The Friends of Blacknest Fields have been working hard over the past few years to improve eight acres of land in the parish of Binsted, Hampshire. Now they have won two top accolades. Find out more here.

Win a gourmet lunch at the PIG!

Bees and butterflies are being given a helping hand in the National Park thanks to the generosity of guests at a popular greenhouse restaurant.

Over the past two years, more than £16,000 has been donated to the South Downs Trust from the award-winning PIG restaurant, which is situated in the hamlet of Madehurst, near Arundel.

It comes after diners had the option of adding a £1 donation to their bill, while the business has also donated £4,000 from its own funds to help local wildlife.

All the funding has been poured into the National Park’s Bee Lines initiative, which has so far created over 100 hectares – or 160 football pitches – of brand-new wildflower meadows to help pollinators thrive.

Olivia Dear, from the restaurant, said: “We love our bees, but they are not just useful for our Kitchen Gardens, humming and dipping from plant to plant, they are essential for helping preserve the ecological balance and biodiversity of nature. It is fantastic we can support bees. and many other important pollinators, beyond our grounds and gardens through the Bee Lines initiative.”

The PIG, which also includes sumptuous rooms for overnight stays, prides itself on its amazing kitchen garden and anything it cannot grow is sourced from within a 25-mile radius.

We’ve teamed up with the PIG to offer a delicious midweek two-course lunch for two people (£28.50 excluding drinks) at the Madehurst restaurant. The lunch offer is available until the end of February.

People signing up to the newsletter during January will be automatically entered into the draw.

Those who are already signed up can email “homegrown” to newsletter@southdowns.gov.uk before midnight on 31 January.

Sign up to the newsletter here and see competition T&Cs here.

Things to do in January

Find other events and activities across the National Park and submit your own. Please remember booking may be necessary and do check full details with the venue.

  • Head to Cowdray Farm Shop Café, Midhurst, on 25 January for the fourth in their series of “Evening Dining events” to enjoy a seasonal feast inspired by local ingredients. Each evening in our series will shine the spotlight on an ingredient that comes straight from Cowdray Estate with the January evening focusing on the estate’s beef. There will also be a delicious vegetarian menu to enjoy if you’d prefer.
  • Watch a film about the harmony of farming and nature. In collaboration with Bedales, Petersfield Climate Action Network are hosting a screening of the soil health film Six Inches of Soil. The film will be shown in the school theatre, followed by a discussion with a panel of local experts. The event will run from 6.30pm to 9.30pm on 28, January. The film tells the inspiring story of British farmers standing up against the industrial food system and transforming the way they produce food – to heal the soil, benefit our health and provide for local communities. Book a seat here.
  • Looking ahead to next month, there are glimmers of spring and longer days with the snowdrop festival at The Manor of Dean Tillington, Petworth. As part of the National Garden Scheme, there will be an open afternoon in the gardens on 2 February, with a chance to enjoy the early spring bulbs.
  • Book a spot on one of the National Park’s Youth Action Days! Are you aged 16-25 (or know someone who might be interested) and want to make a difference to nature and the environment? We’re offering the chance to get involved with Steyning Downland Scheme, which is working towards improving biodiversity and improving accessibility. The fun volunteering day on 15 February is FREE to join and a great chance to add to your CV! Find out more here.






Chichester District Council - District Dispatch

District Dispatch

08

January 2025

As we all know, our weather is becoming more unsettled throughout the year. During the winter months, we tend to see more rain — which can increase the risk of flooding — as well as sudden cold spells and extreme weather. This is why we are encouraging people to be prepared.

If you have a mobile phone, it’s worth downloading our Chichester District Council app from the Apple app store or the Google Play store. This not only enables you to view your waste and recycling collection dates and sign up to handy reminders, but if you switch your notifications on, you will also receive live updates on your waste and recycling collections. This means that you will be notified if there are any changes to collections due to severe weather, or any other unforeseen problems. You can find out more about this at:www.chichester.gov.uk/chichesterdcapp

There are several things we can all do to make sure that our homes, gardens and businesses are ready for the months ahead, and so we have collated some useful tips that we want to share with you.


If you experience a power cut during extreme weather, you should contact your electricity distribution operator by calling 105, and someone will put you through to your area operator.


You can check the flood risk for your postcode area at:www.gov.uk/check-long-term-flood-risk. In many flood risk areas, you can also sign up for flood warnings by visiting:www.gov.uk/sign-up-for-flood-warnings. These warn of the risk of flooding from rivers, the sea, and groundwater. You can receive alerts by phone, email, or text when flooding is expected. Please note that these alerts are not available in all areas.


It’s also worth familiarising yourself with the location of the shut-offs for your mains water, gas and electricity, in case you need to leave your home because of flooding. The location of these varies between properties. Gas shut-off valves are normally beside the meter. The mains electricity cut-off is usually a big red switch on your fuse box. If you can’t find your water stopcock, ask someone with practical experience, or a plumber to help you.


Sometimes no amount of planning and preparation can stop weather events from damaging your property. Insurance offers peace of mind so you know that whatever happens, your home and property is covered. It’s worth checking that your policy is up-to-date and covers what you need.

When high winds are forecast, remember that this can turn everyday items like garden furniture and chairs into dangerous objects. Make sure they are secure, or stored away before a storm or when high winds are forecast.


Before it gets windy or a storm hits, it’s advisable to check your roof for loose tiles, slates and flashing. It’s also worth removing dead branches from old trees. In winter, leaves can build up in your guttering and drainpipes. As a result, water may not drain away properly and will leak into the roof and sides of your house, so you may want to consider having your gutters cleared.


Be prepared for cold weather and make sure water pipes and water tanks in your property are covered with good quality insulation. This will help insulate your hot water system, helping you to save money and protect them from freezing.

Making a list of numbers that you’ll need in an emergency, including local services and loved ones, can also be really helpful. Print or write these on paper in case the situation means you can’t use your phone.


For more advice on how to prepare for emergencies, visit:
https://prepare.campaign.gov.uk/get-prepared-for-emergencies. You can also subscribe to Met Office alerts for the very latest weather warnings:www.metoffice.gov.uk/about-us/news-and-media/media-centre/subscribe-to-email-alerts,which we also share on our social media pages.

Best Wishes


Cllr Jonathan Brown

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

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

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

03

January 2025

Your monthly news update from Chichester District Council

January 2025

Welcome to the January 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.

'Feel Good' farmers' market

Chichester Farmers’ Market returns to the city centre on Friday 17 January, offering a ‘Feel Good’ twist for the first market of the new year. As well as our regular stallholders there will be a variety of organisations on hand to chat about a range of wellbeing issues. Keep checking our events and markets Facebook page for details.

Vegan market returns

The Vegan Market Co returns to Chichester's East Street on Sunday 26 January. You’ll find a range of artisan producers offering a variety of products including vegan street food, craft cheeses, handmade cosmetics, ethical clothing and jewellery, arts, crafts and more. The market will run 10am-4pm. Keep an eye on our events and markets Facebook page for details.

Have your say on our housing strategy

So that we continue to meet our residents’ housing needs, we’re developing our new Housing, Homelessness and Rough Sleeping Strategy 2025-2030. Have your say on the aims and actions we’re looking to include in the strategy by completing our survey when the consultation goes live on 20 January. In the meantime, you can find more information, including frequently asked questions, on our consultation hub.

Protecting our waste warriors

We’re asking residents and visitors to take care on the roads when driving around the Waste and Recycling collection crews and their vehicles. Unfortunately we’ve seen an increase in the number of incidents where crew members have experienced a risk to their safety by other road users. Find out more

We're all in the business of recycling

If you run a business, new regulations will soon require you to have a dedicated recycling collection by 31 March 2025, which includes the separate collection of food waste. Our Business Waste & Recycling team are on hand to help you become compliant easily, quickly and cost-effectively. Visit our website for more information, or email our team

Council meetings and decisions

If you want to keep up with decisions made by your district councillors, don’t forget that you can watch council meetings live or watch a recording afterwards. You can also find agendas, minutes and meeting dates

Reminder - tree scheme funding

If you’re a landowner in our district then there’s still time to apply for funding to support tree planting projects as part of our 'Tree Chichester District' initiative. Funding applications are open until Friday 17 January 2025 – find out more about eligibility and then email our tree scheme officer.

Be weather ready

We’re encouraging people to make sure they are ‘winter ready’ by following a few key actions to keep you and your loved ones safe. There are many things we can all do to make sure our homes, gardens, businesses are ready for the winter months. Please find out more on our emergencies section and we have also included lots of information in the winter edition of Initiatives magazine.

Find out what's on

If you’re looking for things to do then don’t forget our What’s On pages featuring events from across the district. And, if you’re organising a community event our district then don’t forget that we can add all the details to our pages for you, simply email us all the details.

Laser light shows coming next month!

We’re excited to let you know that the popular Chichester Laser Light Show will be returning in the February half term along with a brand new show in Petworth in partnership with Petworth House. Keep an eye on our socials for more details nearer the time!

Advice for students

If you’re a student in our district or a parent or grandparent of one, then you may be interested to learn that we’ve created a one-stop information page. This details the range of services and support available for students, including financial support; waste and recycling information; health and wellbeing support; and events and activities in the area.

Have you downloaded the CDC app?

Don’t forget that we have a free app available to download from the Apple Store or Google Play Store – handy if your bin collections have to change at short notice because of bad weather. Just download and switch on the notifications for live updates. Find out more information.

Would you like to cut down your alcohol intake?

Our specialist alcohol wellbeing advisor is here to help you if you feel that you need some support to reduce your intake. Find out more

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

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The Valley Diary - January 2025

The Valley Diary - January 2025

02

January 2025

Please see file attached.

West Sussex Residents eNewsletter

West Sussex Residents eNewsletter

20

December 2024

19 December 2024

Merry christmas

Welcome to our special edition Residents’ eNewsletter. However you are planning to spend the period over Christmas and the New Year, we wish you a safe, peaceful and enjoyable time.


Leader and chairman

Merry Christmas from West Sussex County Council

A message from the county council's Chairman and Leader.

We would like to take this opportunity to wish you all a Merry Christmas.

During this busy season, county council staff will be working to provide services as usual, ranging from libraries and highways to social care and the Fire and Rescue Service.

2024 has been a very successful year for the county council, with more investment in social care and extra investment in highways across the county, including our gritters which stand ready to tackle challenging winter weather.

The county council will continue to work for you in 2025.

Cllr Pieter Montyn Cllr Paul Marshall

Chairman (pictured right) Leader.


christmas background

We're here for you

If you need us over the Christmas and New Year holidays, we are here for you.

The link below has details of opening hours over the festive period, including our community hub, family hubs, and customer service centre.

You can also find all the out of hours contact numbers you many need, and what problems you can report online.

How to contact us over the holidays


children's homes

Christmas at our children's homes

Children and young people cared for by the county council have been getting into the Christmas spirit, with special festive events throughout December.

Parties have been taking place across the council’s children’s homes to bring the magic of the season to the young people, who have often faced significant trauma and challenges in their lives.

One child described an event at High Trees home in Crawley as the ‘best party ever’, while a parent said: “I cannot thank the team at the home enough for all they do for my child and our family.”

Festive fun


petworth star magazine

A wartime Christmas in West Sussex

Take a step back into festive times past and read about two wartime evacuees who produced a magazine called The Petworth Stars.

Amy and Nellie Scaddan were living with the Parvin family in Petworth and their hand-written and illustrated magazine highlighted the happy times they had in the West Sussex village, despite the hardships of wartime Britain.

The magazine’s 1943 Christmas issue is featured in one of our Record Office blogs where you’ll discover what the family ate for Christmas dinner and their full list of gifts – which included slippers, a pink scarf, a doll’s bed, and a toothbrush.

Visit our Record Office on the link below to discover a wealth of local history dating from 780AD to the present day.

You can trace your family history, view historic photos, research a military ancestor, use maps to explore your local area and house history, find out more about times gone by – and much more!

Discover our Record Office


Get you home banner

Help us help you

The NHS is asking everyone living in Sussex to Help Us Help You as demand on health services increases through the winter months.

If you have loved ones in hospital, help them to leave hospital when they are clinically safe to do so. Every day spent in hospital when they don’t need to be there makes their recovery longer - it’s ok for them to ask ‘when am I going home?'

If you’re eligible, today (19 December) is the last day you can book your flu and Covid-19 vaccination online using the NHS National Booking System. From tomorrow (20 December) you can arrange an appointment directly with a local service or attend a walk-in session.

Find out how you can make the right choices on which health services to contact over the Christmas break on the NHS Sussex website.

You can also visit our Keeping Safe this Winter webpage for tips on staying safe, well and warm this winter.


Think before you throw

Get ready to reduce waste this Christmas

We’re encouraging residents to reduce waste wherever possible during the festive season.

Wrapping gifts in reusable materials like ribbon and scarves, using crockery when hosting parties rather than paper plates and plastic cutlery, and making your own crackers are just some of the ideas that can reduce Christmas waste.

We understand that some waste is unavoidable, but there are lots of Christmas items that can be recycled, including:

  • Christmas cards
  • Wrapping paper (if it scrunches up in your hand and stays scrunched)
  • Paper bags
  • Glass bottles and jars
  • Plastic bottles (with lids on)
  • Plastic pots, tubs and trays (including sweet and chocolate tubs)
  • Flexible toothpaste tubes
  • Tins and cans
  • Foil
  • Pringles tubes

Finally, it’s easy for food waste to build up over the festive period. Instead of letting leftovers go to waste, why not turn them into something delicious or make a conscious effort to only buy what you need.

Discover more tips for reducing Christmas waste


burning candle

Stay safe from fire

The festive season should be filled with joy, not disaster. Stay safe by following our West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service’s essential dos and don’ts for fire hazards in your home:

  • Never place candles near your Christmas tree or materials that can catch light easily.
  • Keep candles, lighters and matches out of children’s reach. Never leave burning candles unattended.
  • Never overload electrical sockets. Always switch Christmas lights off and unplug them before you go to bed.
  • Decorations can burn easily – don’t attach them to lights or heaters.

More festive fire safety advice


More news

Check out our Newsroom to read more West Sussex stories.


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


Think before you throw 2024-2025


Like us on Facebook.

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Signup for Newsletters

West Sussex County Council contact information


Highways, Transport and Planning - News and Updates

Highways, Transport and Planning - News and Updates

26

November 2024


Happy holidays from west sussex highways


WSCC Leader, Cllr Paul Marshall reaffirms our commitment to winter resilience on the county’s highways

Cllr paul marshall

As we enter the winter months and the weather starts to turn, I want to take this opportunity to reassure the residents of West Sussex that I, and my colleagues at the county council, remain committed to improving our county’s roads and keeping West Sussex moving. The extreme weather of the last two winters has had a substantial impact on our road network which suffered large levels of flooding resulting in damage to the road surface.

Over the past six months, our highways teams have been working hard to repair this damage, and I believe that their efforts are paying off. Almost 40,000 safety defects were repaired in the first half of this financial year, and we will continue to respond to reports as the weather allows.

To ensure that this hard work isn’t undone and that we are prepared for the impact of extreme weather this year, we have invested a further £1.5million for much-needed resources to continue maintenance work and provide resilience in responding to emergencies.

Read more from Cllr Paul Marshall

Road Safety Strategy Consultation

Road safety consultation

West Sussex County Council is asking for your feedback to help shape the West Sussex Road Safety Strategy, which outlines how we intend to improve road safety across the county and reduce the number of people killed or seriously injured in traffic collisions.

A key objective in our Council Plan is to keep people safe from vulnerable situations and the strategy sets out our vision to create a safer road environment for everyone while encouraging active and sustainable travel in the county.

We want to hear from as many people as possible who walk, wheel, cycle, use public transport, or drive in West Sussex. Your feedback will help make the highways network in the county safer for all road users, especially the most vulnerable.

Complete the survey


Scheme Updates

Pedestrian Improvements in Horsham

Following a community highway scheme application to improve pedestrian facilities crossing. In order to improve access to Comptons Brow Lane and The Glade, a new footway and pedestrian refuge island were successfully built on Harwood Road. The works has benefited in improving pedestrian safety by providing safe crossing points and a new footway.

Harwood road crossing before and after

Successful completion of Road Safety Scheme in Aldsworth and Chichester

To address the high frequency of traffic accidents along Sheepwash Lane/Emsworth Common Road in Aldsworth, a road safety scheme was implemented. Along with a new 30 mph speed limit, a local safety plan included new warning signs, verge marker posts, resurfacing and an extension to the double white line system. Now that the project is finally finished, road users will benefit from increased safety.

New signAnother Road Safety Scheme was delivered to improve lane guidance and safety for traffic on the approach to A285 Portfield Way from the Sainsbury’s roundabout.

The works included:

  • Installation of new and replacement road signs.
  • Vegetation clearance.
  • Adjustment of the carriageway line markings.

Community Highway scheme at Southwater

Southwater's Community Highway Scheme was successfully completed. Road markings, an uncontrolled pedestrian crossing, and a new footpath have been installed. The purpose of the construction was to enhance pedestrian access to Martindales and the pedestrian amenities on the northern portion of Blakes Farm Road.

A new uncontrolled pedestrian crossing at th entrance to martindales and the installation of road markings at this junction

Southwater's Community Highway Scheme was successfully completed. Road markings, an uncontrolled pedestrian crossing, and a new footpath have been installed.

The purpose of the construction was to enhance pedestrian access to Martindales and the pedestrian amenities on the northern portion of Blakes Farm Road.

New pedestrian footpath within the western verge of blakes farm road

Halogen Bulb Replacement Programme progress:

A three-year programme to upgrade the halogen bulbs to LED is nearly halfway through. Along with the upgrade, the traffic signals team has utilised this opportunity to address any additional upgrades required to bring the crossing locations to the latest WSCC standards. The team successfully upgraded six crossings in November. The crossing equipments had reached end of life and required replacing at the following roads:

  • Franklynn Road near Princess Royal Hospital, Haywards Heath
  • Tylers Green near Broad Street roundabout Road, Cuckfield
  • Washington Road near Heather Way, Sullington
  • Newland Road near Broadwater Road, Worthing
  • North Street near Foundary Lane, Horsham
  • Mulberry Lane near Mersham Gardens, Worthing

Using the latest technology, a near-sided puffin crossing has been installed, making it greener, more effective, and more efficient. In addition to tactile cones and audible bleepers to assist visually impaired pedestrians, above-ground detectors were installed to increase pedestrian safety. The detectors detect the presence of pedestrians, which affects the timings of the signals. Additionally, LED features have been added to lower energy and maintenance costs, increase driver visibility, and support the Council's Net Zero commitment by lowering carbon emissions.

Traffic Signals upgrade at Southgate Avenue in Crawley successfully complete.

Obsolete traffic lights have been replaced with new, more reliable, and energy-efficient equipment at three junctions in Crawley:

  • Southgate Drive and Hawth Avenue
  • Southgate Avenue’s junction with Tilgate Way
  • The bus gate at the southern end of Southgate Avenue, junction with Brighton Road.

The works were completed in phases and the team successfully refurbished the sites nearly 4 weeks early. The improvement works included:

  • Using LED technology to improve the traffic lights’ reliability, reduce maintenance and save energy and running costs;
  • Updating the control software to give buses priority and react to vehicle movements in real time, helping traffic flow;
  • Renewing all “tactile paving” on the approaches to crossings (these textured surfaces help visually impaired people identify the approaches);
  • Converting crossings to the latest Puffin type: these have the “red or green man” signals on the same side of the road as the pedestrian (as opposed to the old-style, with signals across the road);
  • Upgrading the Southgate Avenue/Tilgate Way crossing to a ‘Toucan’: a crossing for both pedestrians and cyclists, so “two can” cross.

Please Note: the traffic control system could take up to three months to fine-tune once the works are finished before it is running as effectively as possible.

Reconstruction of river wall completed in Chichester

Through accelerated teamwork, the river wall repair, and signals upgrade at A285 Westhampnett Road were successfully completed. The environmentally friendly "FlexMSE" soil bagwork was used to replace the wall, which was in poor condition. This will help prevent the nearby River Lavant from eroding the road. Compared to the conventional concrete bagwork system, this one offers many benefits such as:

  • The FlexMSE bagwork is filled with a combination of sand/compost above water level and gravel below water level using recycled materials, with no concrete or steel reinforcement. This helps reduce our carbon use.
  • This soil filled bagwork is approved for use by the Environment Agency in water courses and SSSI’s (Sites of Specific Scientific Interest). This helps reduce our impact on the surrounding environment.
  • After installation the wall is hydroseeded, which involves spraying wildflower seeds and mulch onto the wall face, which covers a large area quickly and inexpensively. The hydroseeding help encourage long term biodiversity through wildflowers being established on the riverbanks.

A285 westhampnett road river wall repair

In this last newsletter for 2024, you'll see a message from WSCC Leader Cllr Paul Marshall, our Road Safety Strategy Consultation, scheme updates, Bikeability, Drainage and more!

Completed Resurfacing at Haslett Avenue East and Gatwick Road roundabout, Crawley

The successful resurfacing of Haslett Avenue East with the Junction of College Road and Haslett Avenue East with the junction of Southgate Avenue has now been completed. This is in addition to the completed resurfacing works at Gatwick Road roundabout in Crawley.

Before/After resurfacing at haslett avenue east and gatwick road roundabout, crawley.

Bikeability December Summary

This academic year our Bikeability Team have been out instructing in schools from 9th September and we are booked in to offer training right up until 19th December 2024!

In the first half of this academic year we have trained in excess of 2500 year 6 children at Level 1&2 Bikeability, across 72 schools. We have also carried out 4 balance bike courses to date, training over 80 reception children.

We will be back in schools again from 6th January to 18th July 2025 and are due to deliver Level 1&2 Bikeability training to a further 4600 Year 6 children in 124 schools. We will also be in 23 schools teaching the balance bike courses to 1013 Reception children.

Within the above numbers are 11 specialist SEND/SEMH/APC schools where we work closely with the staff to design a bespoke service that meets specific requirements of their students.

However, as well as offering this bespoke approach to the specialist schools, we also recognise the wide ranging support needs of children within all schools. So our training model (working with individuals and in pairs) is designed to lend itself perfectly to tailoring the sessions to the individual ability, pace and needs of each rider.

We often overstaff a little where we can to enable flexibility and capacity to offer children learn to ride / bike control improvement opportunities wherever possible.

In the last few months we have also had 12 new instructors trained and they have been shadowing experienced instructors over the last few months. Our experienced instructing team have been excellent at mentoring and supporting our new instructors, 5 of which have now successfully passed their post course observation assessment, meaning they are now fully qualified. 4 new instructors are booked in for a January assessment. And the remaining 3 will continue working with the fully qualified instructors to build up their shadowing hours and experience.

Drainage

The Drainline contractor over the summer period (from 01/07/2024 – 22/11/24) in the build up to the winter have completed a total of 477 ad hoc jetting jobs across the county which is a resource outside of the standard cyclical programme and they have also completed 72 CCTV survey jobs.

Currently this financial year we are on track for the contractor Balfour Beatty to complete 67 small drainage improvement schemes.


Have your say on Transport Improvements

West Sussex County Council is asking for public feedback to help develop transport improvements at the Hazelwick and Tushmore junctions on the A2011 Crawley Avenue.

The engagement period will close at 23:55 on 7th January 2025.

Read more about the A2011 Crawley Avenue transport improvements

West Sussex County Council is also inviting residents and road users in Horsham to share their feedback on transport issues on Rusper Road, A281 Guildford Road, and the B2237 North Parade/Wimblehurst Road junction. The improvements could help ease the flow of traffic, make conditions safer for everyone, and encourage walking, cycling and use of public transport. The engagement period will close at 23:55 on 14th January 2025.

Read more about Horsham transport improvements


Follow us on X!

Updates on emergency reports are posted every day and project updates are posted frequently on the West Sussex Highways X account (formerly Twitter). Just search @WSHighways if you aren't already following.



WSCC Your Town and Parish Council News budget consultation special

WSCC Your Town and Parish Council News budget consultation special

21

November 2024

November 2024

town and parish news

Budget consultation special edition

November 2024

Please share the information in this eNewsletter widely within your communities.


have your say

The county council is running a public consultation on our budget, Our Council Plan, and how we spend taxpayers’ money in the coming financial year 2025 to 2026.

The views of our residents across West Sussex are vital to the budget-setting process, ensuring we’re making the best use of our resources and can continue to invest in and deliver services that support our communities.

That’s why we’re encouraging as many people as possible to take part.

Please could you encourage your parishioners to complete the consultation via this link.

Anyone without access to the internet can visit a library or family hub to complete the consultation.

If you know anyone who would like to receive a printed copy of the survey and a freepost return envelope, please call our customer services team on 01243 777100.

An Easy Read survey is also available online on the consultation page via the link above.

If you are able to share our social media posts which are also encouraging people to take part that would be great too:

We also have a poster if you are able to download it and print it out to display and an animation you are welcome to watch and share.

The consultation closes on Sunday 15 December and all comments will be considered as part of the budget setting process for 2025 to 2026.

The West Sussex County Council Cabinet is due to consider feedback from the public consultation at a meeting in January before recommending the Council Plan and budget to Full Council in February for a final decision.

Read more about our budget and finances from Council Leader Cllr Paul Marshall.

Thank you for your help.

View our budget campaign pages


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Singleton and Charlton Parish Council Emergency/Flood Contact List

Singleton and Charlton Parish Council Emergency/Flood Contact List

28

October 2024

Emergency Plan Contact List – October 2024

Singleton and Charlton Parish Council

Karen Nash

Peter Gattrell

Emergency Plan

Lead Councillors

07966 262553

07784146852

Deborah Harwood

Chairman

07976 800965

Graham Zacharias

Councillor

07774 822715

Tony Marshall

Councillor

0788 127442

Jeremy Rigby

Councillor

07735 057428

Vivien Nuttall

Clerk

01243 811810 or 07702 240126

Useful Numbers

Sue Martin

Level Alert Warden

01243 811429

Cricket Pavilion

Francis Ward

07941 039378

Goodwood Security

Including Cows & Sheep

07909 876823

Village Hall Keyholders

Graham Zacharias

07774 822715

Church

Rev Sarah

07468 854864

Judy Fathers

07776 258230

CDC

Emergency Planning and Environmental Health Officer

01243 785339

01243 785339

Environment Agency

Incident Hotline

0800 807060

Environment Agency

Floodline

0345 9881188

Southern Water

Drains

0845 2780845/0330 3030368

Portsmouth Water

Emergency Line

02392 477 999

UK Running Events - South Downs Trail Run 09.11.24

UK Running Events - South Downs Trail Run 09.11.24

30

September 2024

Please see attachment below.

Singleton and Charlton Parish Council - Village Design Statement

Singleton and Charlton Parish Council - Village Design Statement

19

September 2024

Please see attachment below.

Highways, Transport and Planning - Major Projects Biannual Newsletter

Highways, Transport and Planning - Major Projects Biannual Newsletter

23

August 2024

Major Projects - Schemes Updates

West sussex county council - www dot west sussex dot gov dot uk

Highways transport and planning


A284 Lyminster Bypass

The scheme aims to alleviate traffic issues through Lyminster Village with the northern section of the bypass completing the link road from the A27 at Crossbush, providing access to Littlehampton.

The progress made so far:

North of Ancient Hedgerow

We have been working on the new culvert and the tie in, where new bypass joins the A284.Work continues on the Lyminster Road, following a temporary change to the layout to allow the breaking up the existing road to make it ready for the installation of the second part of the ready-made culvert in Brookfield Stream.

Lyminster bypass

Ancient Hedgerow to Bridleway

Street lighting columns and traffic signs have begun to be put up around the link road. Acoustic fencing to reduce sound levels has started to be installed and timber fencing with badger mesh also has been installed. The mesh blocks badgers from going into live traffic, instead directing them to use the designated badger crossing, which is a concrete tunnel that feeds underneath the road.

Bridleway to Black Ditch

Combined drainage kerbs have now been set across the viaduct. These separate the cycle/pedestrian pathway from the new road; they also catch surface runoff and channel it down towards the south of the viaduct.

South of Black Ditch

The soil mixing has begun to an area south of the viaduct to give the ground improved properties. The process has started where the attenuation tank (for storage of excess rainwater) will be, this is so the surrounding material will gain maximum strength so the area can be safely dug and the tank put in.

Community STEM activity

Over two evening sessions in June, Public Liaison Officer Shannon Acton-Brown and Industrial Placement Abbie Scott from our contractors Jackson Civils, facilitated a series of STEM challenges with the 4th Goring Guides and Brownies. The activities included bridge building, drawing, teamwork, and communication skills. They were aimed at showing the diversity of roles in civil engineering, such as structural engineering, designer engineering and construction engineering.

Lyminster bypass

Click here for further information


Railway Approach, Worthing

The Worthing Growth Programme has invested £2.86 million to upgrade Worthing Railway Station frontage and Railway Approach. This includes

  • Improve pedestrian and cyclists’ access with new bicycle racks.
  • Greening with trees and planting.
  • Safety through better lighting and new CCTV.
  • An Active Travel funded contra-flow cycle lane, linking Railway Approach to Cross Street, and a raised crossing and table to give pedestrians priority will also be provided as part of these works.

Throughout this project, sustainability has been a focus with measures such as the introduction of rain gardens and Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems to reduce rainwater runoff and improve water quality. Existing materials have been re-used throughout the refurbishment, with existing stone and paviour surface materials being utilised to improve the look while reducing waste materials.

Read more here


A29 Realignment Scheme

The scheme will deliver a new 4.34km road to the east of Eastergate, Westergate and Woodgate villages in two phases:

Phase 1 (north): From the A29 south of Eastergate Lane to a new junction with Barnham Road. Video link here

Phase 2 (south): From Barnham Road to a new junction on the A29 south of Lidsey bends

Phase 1 update:

WSCC Major Projects team working jointly in agreement with Church Commission Projects has successfully demolished the Fleurie Nursery greenhouse site at Barnham. This has enabled WSCC team to successfully apply for planning commencement of the phase 1 scheme.

Jackson Civil Engineer and their specialist demolition sub-contractor – DDS, completed the works in 10 weeks, removing individual panes of glass from the four large greenhouses before collapsing and cutting up the aluminium frames.

All material went to recycling, with specialist asbestos removal to a licensed waste tip. The scheme also worked closely with Utility providers to remove redundant electrical and communications equipment from the site.

During Autumn 2024, we will be undertaking further archaeological investigation on the nursery site.

We are currently examining the potential for the early implementation of the Barnham Road roundabout as part of a Phase 1A in order to support the wider development delivery.

Further information available here


A259 Bognor Regis to Littlehampton

A259 bognor regis to littlehamptonThis scheme aims to enhance active travel, bus priority measures as well as highway capacity at various locations along the A259 Bognor Regis to Littlehampton corridor between Comet Corner and Bridge Road roundabout. We are currently awaiting for the approval of the outline business case by the Department for Transport. When approved, a full business case will be prepared and submitted for further approval before construction can start.

View scheme plans


Bognor Regis Esplanade

Bognor regis esplanadeAs part of the Arun Growth Programme, the project will improve areas of the public realm by, increasing accessibility, reducing the speed limit to 20mph, increasing greening and introducing raised crossings. This will complement wider improvements in the area including works to place at:

  • St Maur (completed)
  • Alexandra Theatre
  • Bognor Regis Arcade
  • The new Premier Inn hotel

On the 23rd of May 2024, WSCC published a Key Decision approving detailed design and the project will now progress into procurement with the view to commence construction in October 2024.

View scheme plans and engagement page


Haywards Heath - South Road

The scheme emerged from the Haywards Heath Town Study 2015 and aims to discourage traffic through the shopping area along with providing an environmental enhancement.

Following the public engagement in summer 2022, the scheme was costed, and funding opportunities were reviewed. The prospect of additional funding from Central Government is no longer looking to be viable within the foreseeable future. As such, the scope of the scheme is being reviewed if it is deliverable using available developer Section 106 contributions.

We are currently liaising with Councillors to agree a revised design.


Centenary House Access - Durrington

The scheme consists of a new left-in/left-out access on the A2032 Littlehampton Road West of the Durrington Lane Roundabout.

In order to facilitate the future development of the site, it is proposed to provide a new access serving the Police Custody Suite. This will enable the site, which is jointly owned by Sussex Police and County Council, to be split into two, with each party taking sole ownership of their element. This will be necessary to allow the County Council to redevelop or sell the site in the future.

Click here for further details


Investing in better roads


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

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South Downs Planning Newsletter

South Downs Planning Newsletter

21

August 2024

Download a PDF version of the planning newsletter here

Welcome to the summer 2024 planning newsletter for the South Downs National Park Authority. Late summer days in the National Park see an amazing burst of colour as the heathlands blossom into a cascade of purples and pink! Be sure to catch the spectacle before the summer is out. This stunning photo of Stedham Common in West Sussex was taken by Sam Moore.

First opportunity to have your say on the National Park's Local Plan Review

Over 600 comments have been received so far to an initial consultation on the South Downs Local Plan Review.

Last month the National Park Authority launched a survey inviting feedback on the Local Plan Review and how people would like to be involved in it.

The adopted South Downs Local Plan, which says how and where development should take place in the National Park, is being reviewed to make sure it’s up to date and addresses important issues, including nature recovery, climate change and supporting local communities to thrive.

The current consultation on the scope of the plan and how people want to be involved closes on 16 September. There will be a further consultation on the first draft of the plan early next year.

Take part in the survey

Holiday lodges get the green light

Twenty-two lodges have been given the go-head in a boost for the National Park’s tourism offer.

The self-contained units on a three-hectare site at Garrison Hill, Droxford, were approved by the Authority’s Planning Committee, subject to a legal agreement. Learn more here.

New affordable homes for market town

Much-needed affordable homes are set to be built in the National Park after a development was given planning approval.

Thakeham Homes has been granted permission to build 54 homes on land to the west of The Causeway, in Petersfield, subject to the completion of a Section 106 legal agreement. Find out more here.

Busy summer for enforcement

Storing shipping containers, vehicles and building fences without planning permission are among the enforcement issues currently being dealt with by the Authority’s dedicated team.

An enforcement notice has been issued in Pyecombe to stop using a piece of land for the storage of personal vehicles, as well as remove two large shipping containers from the site. Fencing has also been ordered to be removed. Find out more here.

National Park team winsGOLD!

The National Park’s dedication and commitment to design excellence has been recognised with a glittering award from the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI).

The RTPI Awards for Planning Excellence South East were held at The Crowne Plaza, Reading, with the Authority winning “Best Plan”.

The accolade recognises the outstanding contribution made to the National Park’s planning framework by the Design Guide Supplementary Planning Document. Learn more.

Roman Goddess gets new lease of life

A beautiful temple dedicated to the Roman Goddess Minerva is to be rebuilt on the Goodwood Estate.

Planning Officers at Chichester District Council, working on behalf of the National Park Authority, have been working with the Goodwood Estate on the reconstruction of the Temple of Minerva. The picture above, courtesy of the Goodwood Collection, was taken in 1895..

Find out more here about efforts to resurrect the temple.

UPDATES FROM PLANNING POLICY

Lewis Ford, Senior Planning Policy Officer, shares some of the latest news around policy.

The East Sussex Minerals and Waste Local Plan Partial Reviewhas been adopted by the National Park Authority and East Sussex County Council. Brighton & Hove City Council will be considering the adoption of this Plan in October.

The Hampshire Minerals and Waste Local Plan Partial Review has been submitted to the Planning Inspectorate for examination (hearings anticipated in 2025).

The West Sussex Waste Local Plan has been reviewed and agreed as still fit for purpose by the National Park Authority and West Sussex County Council.

The Bramshott & Liphook Neighbourhood Development Plan has passed its examination and a referendum will be carried out in the Autumn.

The Peacehaven & Telscombe Neighbourhood Development Plan is currently at examination.

The draft Upham Village Design Statement first consultation concluded in July.

West Saltdean Neighbourhood Development Plan carried out its Regulation 14 consultation in May/June.

Coldean Neighbourhood Development Plan carried out its Regulation 14 consultation in June/July.

New green finance scheme for businesses

The fight against biodiversity loss took a step forward as the South Downs National Park announced a new nature recovery scheme for businesses of all sizes.

The South Downs has become the first National Park in the UK to open up a formal scheme for voluntary biodiversity gain to the private sector – meaning that firms of any size across England can invest in high-ethic, effective nature recovery. Learn more.

How to overcome tax hurdles of investing in nature

More and more landowners, developers and businesses want to invest in nature recovery, but navigating the tax system can feel like a minefield. We caught up with an expert, Jo White, to find out how best to reduce the tax burden when investing in nature and the environment.

New partnership for housing

Key stakeholders are putting their heads together to bring forward more affordable homes in rural communities. Learn more here.

New support network for women planners

A new group has been formed to support women working in planning and a 30-strong launch event was recently held at the South Downs Centre.

Sussex Women Planners met up to share ideas, experiences, best practice, and challenges for the inaugural event in Midhurst. Find out more here.

Improved accessibility for town after CIL funding

A new ‘Changing Places’ toilet has been provided in the centre of Petersfield, supported by contributions from both CIL and S106 developer funds.

Find out about the latest updates about the Community Infrastructure Levy.

Celebrating sustainability and heritage

A stunning house that puts sustainability at its heart has won “The South Downs Award” as part of a prestigious heritage scheme.

Vanessa Rowlands (pictured above), Chair of the National Park Authority, presented the trophy to the team behind The Mile House, which is situated near Amberley.

It comes as projects across Sussex were recognised for exceptional design, architecture and conservation at the Sussex Heritage Trust Awards. Learn more.

Exciting shortlist for Design Awards

A public park makeover, café, eco-home, temple, and the restoration of a 570-year-old timber house are among the exciting mix of projects shortlisted for a prestigious South Downs Design Award.

More than 60 nominations were received across Hampshire, West Sussex and East Sussex for the National Park’s award scheme that celebrates outstanding design, architecture and innovation.

Learn more here about the upcoming awards and vote in The People's Choice.

Vote for your favourite project here

Latest planning stats

April to June 24

Appeals submitted to the Planning Inspectorate

18

Appeals started

28

Appeals determined

17

Appeals successfully defended

16

Statutory submissions received

968

Statutory submissions received via the Planning Portal

844

Statutory submissions determined

1,010

Neighbours notified

4,211

Representations received

1,417

Consultations issued

2,648

Conditions imposed

3,223

Enquiries for planning advice

243

Enforcement complaints received

149

Enforcement cases opened

109

Enforcement related site inspections

134

Enforcement notices served

7

Enforcement cases closed

115

Meet the National Park planner...

We catch up with Sarah Round, Principal Development Management Officer, and find about her job, as well as her love of coffee and nature. Meet Sarah here.

Dates for the diary

The next planning committee meetings will be held on 12 September, 10 October, 14 November and 12 December. You can watch the meetings on-demand for up to six months after the meeting through our webcasting portal.

You can look at previous and upcoming agendas on the website here.

Watch the committee meetings on webcast






Drone Regulations

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.

Big adventures and low fares in West Sussex this summer!

Big adventures and low fares in West Sussex this summer!

29

July 2024

Special edition West Sussex County Council eNewsletter

Bus it banner

Welcome to our special edition 'Bus it' eNewsletter!

Take the bus and enjoy the summer in West Sussex.

Read on for everything you need to know about discounted bus fares, popular locations you can visit by bus, and the latest transport improvements.

I'm on board!


Book-a-Bus £1 fares in august

£1 Summer Special on Book-a-Bus

Book-a-Bus is an on-demand, flexible bus service for areas in West Sussex with limited or no traditional bus service.

With Book-a-Bus fares capped at only £1 per trip for the whole month of August, you can plan a summer day out in the West Sussex countryside.

View our interactive map to plan your destinations.

Book a bus


Image of a multi-generational family

Big adventures, low fares

There are plenty of exciting locations in our county just waiting to be explored. With most places being accessible via bus, why not hop on board and see the sights for less?

The £2 single bus fare is still available until the end of 2024 for all passengers.

Young people can save even more on their bus fares by simply asking for the 16 to 20 Bus Saver discount. Get reduced fares via bus operator apps or from the bus driver when they show relevant ID.

Don’t forget to take a moment to check if you’re eligible for a free bus pass. Apply for one or renew your pass if needed (free for people with certain disabilities or those of state pension age).

Click for low fares


New and updated real time passenger information

We're working hard to make bus journeys better

Over the next few months, we will continue to carry out work throughout the county which aims to improve bus journeys.

  • Need to know when the bus will arrive? Over 250 Real Time Passenger Information Displays have been installed with more to come.
  • We’re improving journey times by refurbishing 10 junctions with bus priority traffic signals with another 10 lined up.
  • In partnership with Crawley Borough Council, construction for the Western Boulevard Scheme is making good progress.
  • An extension to the recently constructed eastbound bus lane in Manor Royal in Crawley from Crompton Way to London Road (A23) is continuing.
  • Further works have been planned to improve the bus stops along the Hydrogen Fast Routes 10 and 20.

You can stay updated on all our projects and view the map to find out where existing and planned improvements are taking place.

Stay Informed


What's new with your local bus operators

What's new from our local bus operators

Metrobus and Brighton and Hove

From coast to countryside, exploring West Sussex is now more budget-friendly than ever.

For inspiration on fun and interesting things to do and how you can get there by bus, head to Metrobus Days Out.

In May, improvements were announced to the 273 service that connects Crawley and Brighton. The improvements include increased frequency, with services running up to hourly, faster services with some taking under an hour, and a new service on Sundays and public holidays. The full timetable can be found here.

Use the Metrobus Journey Planner to plan your next trip and download the Metrobus app for live updates and departure times.

Stagecoach

Stagecoach is celebrating the 1st anniversary of the 500 bus service between Chichester and Littlehampton.

That's 365 days of getting passengers to work, school and connecting them to their communities. To thank customers for their continued support, Stagecoach is offering £500 worth of Chichester Gift Card vouchers to one lucky winner!

To enter, simply fill out the form before 31 July.

Compass Travel

You'll be able to travel on upgraded Compass Travel buses from September as a major upgrade of their services 31/31A and 33 in Mid-Sussex is rolled out.

Passengers will have a better experience with new, modern buses designed to offer a much-enhanced travel experience including:

  • USB charging points at every seat
  • comfortable and spacious seating
  • the latest real-time passenger information technology with next-stop audio and visual announcements
  • enhanced accessibility with more space for those with reduced mobility, pushchairs, or prams
  • internal lighting on steps for better visibility and under-seat floor lighting for added safety
  • advanced stop-start technology delivering cleaner tailpipe emissions making it more eco-friendly.

These improvements, supported by West Sussex County Council, are part of Compass Travel's commitment to providing a better travel experience.

Welcome aboard the next-generation buses, and stay updated with Compass Travel.


did you know

You can find lots more inspiration on places to visit when you Bus it! on our tourism website Experience West Sussex.


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


Bus it

Bus it! is part of the wider Bus Service Improvement Plan (BSIP) which is funded by the Department for Transport.


Better Roads in West Sussex

Better Roads in West Sussex

10

June 2024

May 2024 West Sussex County Council eNewsletter

better roads header

Welcome to a special edition of our residents’ newsletter in which we focus on the challenges we’re currently facing with the condition of our roads, what we’re doing to repair them, where you can find more information and how you can help us.


better roads image 1

What’s going on with our roads?

We understand how frustrated people feel about the exceptional number of defects currently present on some roads in West Sussex and the impact this has on travelling around the county.

We feel that frustration too and are working hard to make improvements using the resources available to us.

Like many other local councils across the UK, we have deteriorating roads due to a combination of factors:

  • extreme fluctuations in weather, especially the wet spells earlier this year
  • volume and weight of vehicles using the network
  • not enough funding available to carry out all the repair works that need doing.

But we are facing the challenge head-on and pumping a multi-million pound package into a series of road repairs and improvements, to provide a road network we can all be proud of.

We’d like to thank our teams, suppliers and contractors, who are all working flat out to resolve the issues.

Read more on the link below about our challenge and the work our Highways teams are completing across our 4,000kms of roads.

Rising to the challenge


better roads image 2

Visit our new website

Take a look at our new ‘Better Roads’ website, where you can find all the information you need, including how potholes form, how we prioritise repairs, the types of repairs we conduct, the scale of the challenge and our progress.

More information will be added over the coming months so be sure to check back for the very latest updates.

Visit our Better Roads campaign


better roads image 3

Help us by reporting any problems you see on our roads

Please continue to report any issues you see on our roads. Each report we receive is triaged and your safety remains our top priority.

You can report issues to us online, or if a pothole is an immediate risk to public safety, call 01243 642 105. Emergency reports can be made 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Report road problems here


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

Reminder: We have more than 40 eNewsletters on a wide variety of topics including Envrionment & Climate Change, Walking & Cycling, Highways & Transport, Recycling, Weather Alerts and Staying Safe Online. View all topics here.


Better roads

Annual Parish Meeting - Southern Water Presentations

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

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

Singleton and Charlton Parish Council - Meeting Dates for 2024

Singleton and Charlton Parish Council - Meeting Dates for 2024

20

May 2024

Singleton and Charlton Parish Council

Meeting Dates for 2024

All Meetings are held in Singleton Village Hall at 7pm

Full Parish Council Meeting Wednesday 17th January 2024

Full Parish Council Meeting Monday 18th March 2024

Full Annual Parish Council Meeting Monday 20th May 2024

And Annual Parish Meeting

Full Parish Council Meeting Monday 22nd July 2024

Full Parish Council Meeting Monday 16th September 2024

Full Parish Council Meeting Monday 18th November 2024

Letter from Southern Water

Letter from Southern Water

07

May 2024

Please see attachment.

Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks (SSEN)

Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks (SSEN)

02

April 2024

Priority Services Register


Please see attachment below.

Water regulator agrees to partnership working following criticisms in relation to Southern Water

Water regulator agrees to partnership working following criticisms in relation to Southern Water

30

January 2024

Date of Release: 29 January 2024 Ref: 4321

Water regulator agrees to partnership working following criticisms in relation to Southern Water

The watchdog responsible for regulating the water and sewerage industry, Ofwat, has pledged to work more closely with local authorities across the south coast to hold Southern Water to account.

Ofwat — the Water Services Regulation Authority — pledged to better partnership working with local authorities at a meeting organised by the Southern Water Stakeholder Group on 19 January 2024.

The Southern Water Stakeholder group was set up to put pressure on Southern Water — which is responsible for wastewater across the region and for drinking water in other parts of the southeast —in light of pollution and flooding concerns.

Ofwat’s pledge follows criticisms by councils that the watchdog has not been effective in holding Southern Water to account.

During the meeting, which was attended by Southern Water, council officials said responses from the organisation have been continuously slow and unacceptable and the company failed to deliver promised upgrades. They asked Ofwat what local authorities could do to expedite complaints about Southern Water and how Ofwat carried out compliance checks against the company.

There were also criticisms that Ofwat is not monitoring Southern Water closely enough or ensuring that the water company is working efficiently. Council representatives explained that a much clearer understanding was needed of how councils can work with Ofwat to resolve problems and called on the water regulator to proactively help local authorities. They also asked for reassurance from Ofwat that water companies, such as Southern Water, are delivering on their promises to invest in infrastructure improvements.

Chichester District Council’s Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for the Environment, Cllr Jonathan Brown, and Cabinet Member for Planning, Cllr Bill Brisbane, also attended the meeting.

“Chichester District Council is one of 24 councils across the south east that have joined together to hold Southern Water to account over pollution and infrastructure failings,” says Cllr Brisbane.

“We have been challenging Southern Water in relation to their engagement with both the planning process and the environmental impacts of discharging sewage into Chichester Harbour for some time. This includes previously filing an official complaint about the company to the Ofwat.

“By joining forces with other local councils, we have been able to apply significant pressure on Southern Water. The Southern Water Stakeholder Groupwas set up in response to issues including flooding; sewage backing up into people’s homes, gardens and roads; the ongoing problem of discharges into rivers and waterways; and the inability to deal with additional development.

“These include the recent flooding and associated drain surcharging; sewage and subsequent discharges into the harbour and water courses affecting the water quality of Chichester Harbour; delays in upgrades to the sewerage network; and slow responses to planning applications.”

Cllr Brown adds: “Unfortunately, as a district council, we do not have the direct power to regulate Southern Water or require it to address its failings. But as local authorities working together, we can do more to apply pressure and seek the required action needed to resolve these issues.Our residents deserve better and we will continue to work in partnership with other stakeholders to hold Southern Water to account.

“We are also involved in a Three Harbours Summit, whichinvolves Southern Water and representatives from the council and other local authorities, along with relevant agencies such as Natural England, the Environment Agency, Chichester Harbour Conservancy, Langstone Harbour Board and Sussex Wildlife Trust. This is a positive step towards working together to help improve the harbour for future years to come. The aim is that this group will have a positive impact on Southern Water’s five-year investment plan.”

In the meeting on 19 January, Ofwat’s representative explained that the body’s fundamental duty is to ensure that customer and environment interests are met but that it was keen as a growing organisation to have evidence in advance of concerns so it could hear from the water companies how those issues could be addressed.

Chair of the Southern Water Stakeholder group, Wealden Councillor Rachel Millward, said: “It was once again very useful for all the local authorities across the southeast to express their concerns and raise the local issues their residents face.

“However, the disappointing reality is that Ofwat effectively allows Southern Water to mark its own homework, with no monitoring to ensure that promised improvements are made. Ofwat issues permits with conditions of upgrades to the system, but then fails to check that those happen. Ofwat effectively waits until the system breaks down and sewage pollution is a major problem, instead of taking preventative action of checking that required works are done. This clearly isn’t good enough for the national regulatory body.”

Councils have called for greater accountability and much clearer routes to improving the situation for residents.The next meeting of the Southern Water Stakeholder Group will be held in the spring.

Singleton & Charlton Community Highways Scheme – Update on Progress

Singleton & Charlton Community Highways Scheme – Update on Progress

25

January 2024

NEWS FLASH - Scheduled Dates - 06/01/25 - 14-02-25


Singleton & Charlton Community Highways Scheme – update on progress

Our original proposal back in July 2022 was a ‘wish-list’ of improvements for the roads in Singleton and Charlton, ranging from crossings to school-parking and lower speed limits. We were up against numerous other communities applying for the same funding, so we were very lucky to be selected. However, due to budget constraints, what was on offer was a slimmed down version of our proposal. Then came the feasibility and road safety checks, which knocked a few more things out.

What we’ve been promised is a huge step in the right direction:

· 20mph speed limit throughout Singleton: on the A286 from near the cricket pitch, right through to the village gateways on the Midhurst side, then on all minor roads to the east of this, out to include Bankside.

· Changes to the bus stop: improved access and paving on the northbound side, narrowing the road slightly to slow the traffic, with a courtesy crossing between northbound and southbound.

· Changes to the Town Lane junction to slow traffic down as it takes the corner heading south.

· A courtesy crossing by the cricket pitch and another outside Little Drove Mews on Budd’s Hill. The crossings will consist of a dropped kerb either side with tactile paving and bollards. The cricket pitch crossing will link on both sides via new sections of footpath.

· Replacement of the crash-barrier at Cobblers Corner with a wood-clad version, to improve the appearance.

· Reinstatement of the red road markings on the A286 each side of the village.

· Improvements to the crossing outside the museum.

In addition to all this, we already have the requested 30mph limit up Town Lane as far as the museum entrance.

What we didn’t get and why:

· Removal of centre lines: Highways feel that these are needed until the traffic gets used to the new road layout – we’ve been promised that once we’ve got evidence of slower speeds, this will be reviewed.

· School parking: while this would – and will yet – improve safety outside the school, the costs would have pushed the total budget above the amount that could be allocated for the Community Highways Scheme. The Parish Council is therefore pursuing other sources of funding for this.

· Charlton proposals: These consisted of village gateways and a 20mph limit throughout the village. However, in order to focus on the essential improvements to the A286 – and so increase our chances of being selected for funding – we were advised to withdraw these from the CHS application and pursue them separately. We currently have a TRO application under way for the speed limit reduction and the gateways are at the design and funding stage.

· Changes to Cobblers Corner: The proposals here depended on removing most of the white lines and requiring drivers to slow down and work out for themselves how to get round the bend. We’d also like to get rid of the big yellow chevron signs by the former café. However, all this is currently a step too far for Highways, who fear that it would cause accidents – so the plan is to keep traffic speeds under review and revisit this when we apply (later) to have the white centre lines removed.

All in all, we are very pleased with what’s on offer. Construction is scheduled for 2024/25, so we expect to see activity later this year.

West Sussex County Council Recycling Centre booking system information

West Sussex County Council Recycling Centre booking system information

24

January 2024

Please see attachment below.

Book A Bus

Book A Bus

03

January 2024

See PDF Below

Singleton and Charlton Parish - Priorities Statement

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

Singleton and Charlton Parish Council - Flood Advice - Be Prepared

15

November 2023

Please see attached information.

Centurion Way - Update September 2024

Centurion Way - Update September 2024

01

November 2023

Please see attached document.

Chichester Local Plan

Chichester Local Plan

03

February 2023

Please see attached various documents relating to the Chichester Local Plan.