AI and you – De-mystifying artificial intelligence
Author: Andrew Taylor
Newsletter 26/07/23
Goodbye from me!
(Circa 2018)
Dear East Grinstead Town Council,
As I sit down to write this farewell message, my heart is filled with a mix of emotions. It is with a heavy heart that I bid adieu to this incredible community and my cherished role. Serving as a part of East Grinstead Town Council has been an unforgettable journey.
My journey with the council began at the tender age of 17, when I joined as an apprentice. Little did I know that this initial step would lead to such a fulfilling and rewarding career. Through dedication and hard work, I pursued my studies in AAT and proudly qualified within my first three years. The trust and support you placed in me allowed me to grow both personally and professionally.
Being Dan’s assistant was an experience, though it was short-lived it provided me with essential knowledge of the sector. Nonetheless, it opened doors to new opportunities, and when I approached Julie seeking another challenge, she suggested pursuing CILCA. The pandemic provided an unexpected window of time, and with determination, I completed a two-year qualification in less than five months. This accomplishment solidified my passion for the role, and since then, I have relished every moment of it.
For some time, I also had the privilege of serving as the Clerk and RFO for Apuldram Parish Meeting, extending my horizons and honing my skills even further. It has been an honor to assist their Council and contribute to their endeavors.
As I move forward to embrace new possibilities, I am thrilled to announce that I will be joining Pulborough Parish Council as their Clerk & RFO. I am eagerly anticipating this fresh chapter in my career and the opportunities it holds.
To the members of East Grinstead Town Council, please know that the memories we created together will forever hold a special place in my heart. I will deeply miss each and every one of you, as well as the enjoyable responsibilities that came with being part of this remarkable team. Thank you for your unwavering support, encouragement and friendship throughout the years. I have also really enjoyed the banter, fun and atmosphere of this enjoyable role.
As I embark on this new journey, I wish you all the success and prosperity in managing this beautiful place.
Once again, thank you from the bottom of my heart for allowing me to be a part of East Grinstead Town Council. Farewell, and until we meet again.
(Circa 2023)
Harry
(Circa 2016)
Breast Screening Survey
WSCC Salt Audit
The WSCC Salt Audit is being undertaken, there are potentially two salt bins that can be relocated if there are areas of greater need. If you have anywhere that has enquires outstanding please make Alison (communityservices@eastgrinstead.gov.uk) aware by the end of next week.
NALC Events
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Public consultation extension to Friday 1 September 2023
I am happy to advise that the consultation group for this are : Cllrs Farren, M Belsey, Ody, Whittaker and Mockford. If anyone has any comments they would like submitted then can they please send them to a member of the consultation group or Clerk no later than 20th August to allow the pulling together of comments and submission by deadline.
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Welcoming the High Sheriffs of Sussex
(Sent by Katy Bourne OBE to all major stakeholders)
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On Monday, the High Sheriffs of East & West Sussex visited my office in Lewes to learn more about the work of my team. High Sheriffs are appointed yearly to their independent role and their active support for emergency services, crime prevention agencies and the voluntary sector is hugely appreciated. It was helpful for Andy Bliss (High Sheriff of West Sussex) and Richard Bickersteth (High Sheriff of East Sussex) to meet the different teams in my office and for them to hear examples of the varied range of work I undertake as PCC for Sussex. Throughout their shrieval year, our High Sheriffs will be highlighting the diversity of our county and supporting local groups helping children and young people, rural communities and criminal justice agencies in particular. The High Sheriff Association also run National Crimebeat, a charity giving recognition to the most innovative and successful crime prevention projects carried out by young people aged between 5 and 25 years. Submissions for this year open in November and I’ll be encouraging some of the fantastic schemes we have in Sussex to put themselves forward for the awards. You can read more about the ancient role of High Sheriffs and their charity on the High Sheriffs Association website. |
| Collaboration benefitting local communities |
| This week I attended the national retail crime steering group, chaired by the Policing Minister, where we discussed the new aggravated offence for assaults against shopworkers.
I also updated the group on the progress of Pegasus – a ground-breaking initiative that I am leading with UK retailers in partnership with police to identify and target the most serious and harmful organised crime gangs operating in the UK. Finally, this Saturday some of my team will be supporting West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service at their Open Day in Broadwater, Worthing. We will be talking to the public about anti-social behaviour and feelings of safety in Sussex so, if you’re able to, please pop along to have your say. You can find out more about the event on the Broadwater carnival website. Katy Bourne OBE Sussex Police & Crime Commissioner |
Business Survey 2023
Please click the following link to access the Business Survey 2023 created by EGBA (East Grinstead Business Association).
Temporary Road Closure Faraday Avenue, East Grinstead Saturday 19th August 2023
GATCOM News Bulletin
NALC Newsletter
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Chief executive’s bulletin27 July 2023 NALC and the LGA launch a joint event to empower individuals to become local councillors Last week on 21 July 2023, we launched a FREE joint online event with the Local Government Association (LGA), which will take place on 14 November 2023 on how residents can be the voice of their community by standing for election as a local councillor. The event, part of our Make A Change campaign, will cover the path to becoming a local councillor and councillors’ vital work and role. Our expert panel features councillors that have served at different levels of local government and will share their insights, experiences, and advice about the world of local leadership. We are targeting the general public and those not yet involved in their community, so we need the support of local (parish and town) councils and county associations to share this event as widely as possible to unearth the next crop of community leaders! Learn more about our Make A Change campaign, which encourages people from all backgrounds and experiences to get involved with local councils. Martyn’s Law update NALC recently submitted written evidence to the Home Affairs Committee, which is undertaking pre-legislative scrutiny of the Draft Terrorism (Prevention of Premises) Bill, which sets out requirements that venues and organisations will have to meet to ensure public safety. The proposed legislation is known as Martyn’s Law in tribute to Martyn Hett, who was killed alongside 21 others in the Manchester Arena terrorist attack in 2017 and whose mother, Figen Murray, has since campaigned for greater security at venues. In our submission, we supported the government’s aim of making the public safer at publicly accessible locations and security measures but stressed that interventions should be reasonable, affordable, and proportionate. While we are keen to work with the government on the bill, we are concerned about the lack of engagement with the sector. We also highlighted the impact the legislation would have on councils as organisers of events covered by the duty, the lack of an impact assessment including costs, concerns about the capacity thresholds being used and the need for proportionality, especially of risk, lack of clarity on the regulator and enforcement, the need for a communications campaign and dedicated programme of support and guidance, and an extensive lead in time to allow councils to prepare. I’m pleased that many of our concerns are included in the committee’s response published today. The committee has warned the draft bill fails to address the real risk of terror attacks and that small venues face implementing costly measures while larger venues fall out of scope. It calls for the legislation to be introduced in stages (with larger venues first), further research to assess the threat to small organisations and venues, adequate funding to be in place, a communications campaign and comprehensive proposals for the regulator. Martyn’s Law is among the priorities that the respective chairs of NALC and the Society of Local Council Clerks (SLCC) have agreed to work closely on, and we are in the process of developing and agreeing on a work programme to engage with the government and provide support to the sector. Larger Councils Committee NALC’s Larger Councils Committee held a workshop session on 25 July 2023 at our partner’s CCLA offices. Here are a few highlights:
On the blog: Office for National Statistics This week’s blog is from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) on visualising local Census 2021 data. ONS are committed to making all its data as accessible as possible, so they are creating a range of products and tools to help users understand and visualise census data. Their create a custom dataset tool allows users to create and customise their datasets, allowing them to explore the relationships between topics that matter to them fully. Their census maps also let users explore Census 2021 data down to a local neighbourhood level. Read the blog to learn more about how your local council can make the most of Census data! NALC moves closer to White Ribbon accreditation NALC is moving closer to becoming a White Ribbon accredited organisation after our steering group met on 25 July 2023. The group considered and approved a three-year action plan to implement between 2023 and 2026, which we will submit for assessment. The group also shared their thoughts on how NALC and the sector can celebrate White Ribbon Day this year (25 November 2023). I’d urge local councils to explore becoming a White Ribbon accredited or supporter organisation and join the campaign to help end violence against women and girls. You can find out more information on the White Ribbon website! And finally… Harrogate and Scarborough in North Yorkshire are set to get new town councils! Both towns are the only unparished parts of the new unitary council created through the most recent round of local government reorganisation. A public consultation supported plans to introduce town councils in Harrogate and Scarborough as early as 2024. However, with further consultations and considerations on councillor numbers, we’re more likely to see their creation and first elections in 2025. Overall, this is positive news and well done to colleagues at the Yorkshire Local Councils Associations for the important part they’ve played, which moves us closer to our goal of making England fully parished! You can find out more on our website about creating a local council. |
Veterans Survey
East Grinstead Town Council is conducting a survey to see how well East Grinstead supports the veterans community (people who have served in the armed forces)
We want to know if our veterans (yesterday or yesteryear) think there are enough services and support for their community. Accessing services such as housing, healthcare or employment. Clubs and groups of like-minded people. If not what more is needed?
If you would like to get involved please complete the online questionnaire or download and complete a questionnaire. Following the questionnaires we will have some focus groups to explore what might be possible.
Questionnaires can be emailed or returned in hard copy to townclerk@eastgrinstead.gov.uk, Town Clerk, East Grinstead Town Council, East Court, College Lane, East Grinstead, RH19 3LT.
Please return by 20th September.
Mayor’s Blog July 2023
After the whirlwind that was May, June was a time to settle into my new role as Mayor. The month started with a jam-packed diary, with more engagements coming each day. It was clear that June was going to be a busy and fulfilling month ahead.
Kicking off the month, there was a briefing by the Lord Lieutenant in Chichester. The session provided valuable insights into the role of the Lord Lieutenant and how we can collaborate effectively. I felt truly honoured to attend such an informative event.
Our first East Court Live event was a tremendous success! The turnout was fantastic, and we were blessed with outstanding weather. Together, we managed to raise over £1500 for my chosen charity, QVH. This marked the highest amount ever raised at an East Court Live event. Thank you, East Grinstead, for your unwavering support!
Throughout the week, I had the privilege of attending an Age UK fundraiser at Carlo Lounge and celebrating the 60th Anniversary of Crawley Mariners Yacht Club at Felbridge. The latter held a special place in my heart as I’ve been a member of the club for over three decades.
One of the highlights of the month was the town’s first KidicalMASS Community Cycle ride, which Cllr Steve Ody organised. Witnessing over 150 participants of all ages, from toddlers to eBike riders in their 90s, cycling through the streets of EG was truly heartwarming. The community spirit was infectious, and I was even brave enough to cycle with them despite facing mild reprimands from the Town Clerk for wearing my chain on the bike.
Together with my Deputy Mayor, Cllr Ody, I engaged in a joint talk with the East Grinstead Society. The group’s active involvement and genuine care for our town were evident as they raised several engaging questions, spanning topics from the water fountain to pedestrianisation and housing supply.
On the 15th, I visited “health watch” at King Centre, an enlightening event that brought together numerous charities serving our town. I learned about their essential work and the challenges they face. The tour of Kings Centre further deepened my understanding of its struggles and the incredible facilities it offers.
I presided over my first special council meeting as Mayor in the Council Chamber, marking a significant milestone in my mayoral journey.
School summer fairs began on the 17th, with the Halsford Park fair setting the bar high with its exceptional organisation and wonderful atmosphere. Witnessing the teachers’ dance and even venturing into the balloon tent added to the delight of the event.
A humbling and inspiring event was when the Mayoress and I attended a special service at St. Swithun’s, honouring the Street Pastors. Their life-saving work and the positive impact they’ve had over the years deeply moved us. We look forward to joining them on patrol in October.
East Court hosted the Armed Forces day, a great opportunity to showcase the town’s close relationship with the armed forces. The kids loved being able to sit in the real life plane and the virtual reality trailer. Also great to be able to honour the RAF nurses who train at QVH and we had the privilege of laying a wreath.
An evening of cultural appreciation awaited as I attended a performance of Mikado by the East Grinstead Choral Society at Chequer Mead. The show’s quality and professionalism left me thoroughly impressed.
As a former Sackville student and professional photographer, I was eager to attend the Sackville School GCSE and A-level art and photography exhibition. The creativity and exceptional standard of the works displayed by our talented young adults in the town were truly inspiring.
Wrapping up the month, I attended an early screening of the St. Swithun’s Art Festival at the church. The event showcased remarkable local art from our community and local schools.
June passed by in a whirlwind, and there was hardly a moment to rest. In the midst of it all, I had the unforgettable experience of attending the premiere of Tom Cruise’s newest Mission Impossible film in Leicester Square, along with some previous Mayors. Walking the red carpet and meeting Tom Cruise was an extraordinary day out.
As July unfolds, I look forward to sharing more adventures and stories with you. Stay tuned for my next update, as it’s shaping up to be another exciting and bustling month ahead!
Newsletter 21/07/23
Temporary Road Closure East Grinstead Bonfire Procession Saturday 21st October 2023
MSVA E-Bulletin, 20 July 2023
Please visit this link to access the MSVA E-Bulletin: MSVA E-Bulletin
West Sussex County Council to express concerns to government over proposed infrastructure levy
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NALC Newsletter
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Chief executive’s bulletin
20 July 2023
Smaller Councils Committee
NALC’s Smaller Councils Committee met at our new offices in London on 18 July 2023. Ahead of the draft minutes being made available, here’s a summary of the meeting:
- Congratulations to the new committee members Cllr Marcus Allen (Herefordshire), Cllr Allan Blakemore (County Durham), Cllr David Francis (Northumberland), Cllr Sarah Jackson (Dorset), and Cllr Mark Valladares (Suffolk), who was also elected committee vice-chair.
- The committee agreed for our partner WorkNest to engage with the committee further on updates to our HR templates.
- There were updates on the Joint Panel on Accountability and Governance (JPAG) and a reminder to committee members that they could provide feedback on the Practitioners’ Guide by completing an online form.
- The committee noted a draft document on emails, password management and domain names.
- The committee were still keen to hear from county associations about the number of local (parish and town) councils that have declared a climate emergency, what they’ve done to tackle climate change locally, and examples of how they have partnered with principal authorities to tackle climate change (please contact jessica.lancod-frost@nalc.gov.uk).
- Councillors agreed to work closely with us to encourage greater participation from smaller councils in the upcoming committee elections, and they supported plans to set up a new network for the smallest local councils with a precept/expenditure not exceeding £10,000.
- The committee was also reminded to consider signing the Civility and Respect Pledge, which has seen nearly 1,300 councils commit to standing up to poor behaviour across our sector.
Civility and Respect Project work on intervention
Nineteen attendees from NALC, central government, principal authorities, the Society of Local Council Clerks and the local finance sector (including our partner’s Internal Audit Forum) met on 13 July 23 for the Civility and Respect Project’s intervention workshop. The workshop allowed attendees to share their experiences to improve civility and respect in the local council sector. The workshop concentrated on severe and chronic failures in local councils, and it was good that colleagues were open and willing to help the project identify resources to help turn around struggling councils, with a list of intervention tools produced, including how easy or challenging it would be to deliver them. All those in attendance agreed the session was valuable and productive.
Larger Councils Committee workshop
NALC’s Larger Councils Committee will hold its annual in-person workshop at CCLA’s London offices on 25 July 2023. This workshop session will allow the committee to re-focus its goals for larger councils. The session will feature an introduction from the newly elected chair of the Local Government Association (LGA) and leader of Great Dawley Town Council, Cllr Shaun Davies. There will be an interactive segment where members will discuss how to encourage more people to get involved with the committee, its effectiveness and its work programme. The committee will also review NALC’s study tour at Newport Pagnell Town Council this year and preview next year’s plans. There will also be discussions and updates on the neighbourhood governance review, Martyn’s Law, and the work of our member services team.
On the blog: Action with Communities in Rural England
In this week’s blog, Jeremy Leggett, policy advisor at the Action with Communities in Rural England (ACRE), writes about better managing the shift from face-to-face banks to online banking. As a result of this shift, almost no bank branches remain in rural parts of England, local councils may struggle to manage their accounts, and people who need more confidence with IT hang on to cash-based workarounds, which causes other risks. To solve this issue, ACRE and other charities have worked with UK Finance to brainstorm ways forward. Proposed solutions include an online resource and a social contract between the banking industry, government and society. Read the blog to find out more!
Kent Association of Local Councils health event
The Kent Association of Local Councils held an excellent online event on 17 July 2023 to discuss the role of local councils in promoting health and wellbeing. Cllr Clair Bell, lead for adult social care and public health at Kent County Council, opened the event, stressing the importance of partnership and that no organisation can do it alone, and how the role of communities at a very local level is vital and that local councils have a crucial role in addressing the broader determinants of health. I briefed them on our sector’s promotion of health and wellbeing nationwide. I also flagged several available resources on the NALC website, including good practice case studies and specific information on creating healthy communities, dementia, tackling loneliness, and standing up to violence against women and girls, to name a few.
Princess Royal opens parish council affordable housing development
Congratulations to Steeple Parish Council in Kent on the official opening of its rural housing development on 18 July 2023 by Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal. The six affordable homes were completed last year to meet affordable housing needs and were achieved through a community-led partnership between the council, district council and English Rural. NALC’s chair, Cllr Keith Stevens was among the guests who attended the opening and met Her Royal Highness at the village hall. In her remarks to Keith, Her Royal Highness urged him to tell all local councils about the development and what can be achieved – therefore taking up that challenge, please read more about the development! And if you been involved in similar schemes, please let us know at policycomms@nalc.gov.uk so we can share your examples more widely too.
NALC in parliament
It’s been a busy and productive week for NALC’s advocacy in parliament ahead of the summer recess. I was delighted the House of Lords backed our call for local councils to be able to hold remote council meetings by voting to support an amendment to the Levelling Up and Regeneration Bill. NALC’s president, Baroness Scott of Needham Market, has spearheaded this campaign in parliament, speaking out strongly in debates. She was among numerous supporters of a new clause to the Bill that Baroness McIntosh of Pickering proposed. We’ll be working with various organisations, including the LGA, to lobby for this to be retained, as given the government’s opposition, it may be overturned when the Bill returns to the House of Commons. And following pressure by NALC to clarify the powers of local councils to provide financial assistance to places of worship, the government has introduced an amendment to the Bill, which was also supported. However, it was disappointing to hear the government continue to resist extending the dependent carer’s allowance to local councils, despite support from other political parties. Along with NALC’s chair, Cllr Keith Stevens, other colleagues and I have represented our sector at various summer receptions this week hosted by Mobile UK, the All-Party Parliamentary Group for Local Government and the Centre for London. These allowed us to engage with ministers, shadow ministers, MPs, Peers, principal council leaders, think tanks and other stakeholders. Keith also met with Sir Julian Lewis MP on 19 July 2023 to discuss his Early Day Motion on standards, brief him on our Civility and Respect Project and explore how we can work together to engage with MPs on this critical issue.
And finally…
There is only one week left to submit your Star Council Awards nominations! Help recognise the achievements of the local council sector’s achievements and showcase our communities’ hidden heroes. There are five award categories: Council of the Year, Councillor of the Year, Young Councillor of the Year, County Association of the Year and Clerk of the Year. All are carefully selected to recognise excellence in different areas of local council operations and highlight the varied contributions made by councils. The nomination period ends on 28 July 2023, and the winners will be announced at a ceremony in the House of Lords on 29 November 2023. You’ve got to be in it to win it!
Newsletter 14/07/23
NALC Newsletter
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The Rural Bulletin – 11 July 2023
Please click here to access the new Rural Bulletin
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Newsletter 07/07/23
Whitehall Cinema Bombing
Mid Sussex District Council’s Standards Committee – call for Nominations for Town and Parish Members
(Sent by MSDC to Town Councillors at East Grinstead Town Council)
We currently have four vacancies for Town and Parish Councillors to sit on the Mid Sussex District Council’s Standards Committee. The purpose of this email is to seek nominations for these vacancies.
If Members would like to sit on this committee, please could you send your nominations to committees@midsussex.gov.uk by 5pm Monday 31 July 2023. Please do include whether they have sat on this, or a similar committee in the past. We will be in touch to advise who has been appointed.
Standards Committee
The Committee comprises of six District Councillors and four Town and Parish Councillors. The role is for a four-year term until April 2027.
Three Independent Persons are also in attendance at committee meetings.
The Committee meets approximately twice a year, with meetings normally held in the evenings at 7.00pm at the Mid Sussex District Council Chamber in Haywards Heath.
The first Standards Committee meeting will be held on Monday 11 September 2023 at 7pm.
What does the role entail?
We are seeking Town and Parish Members to provide representation from across the District.
The role requires an ability to act with integrity and impartiality. The Council’s Standards Committee has a number of duties relating to:
- the promotion of high standards of conduct by Councillors,
- reviewing and monitoring complaints under the Council’s Complaints Procedure and
- monitoring the operation of the Councillors’ Code of Conduct.
- Should a complaint against a Councillor require assessment, you may be required to sit on an Assessment Sub Committee and Hearings Panel. This would be on an ad-hoc basis and would comprise 3 members of the Standards Committee.
County Councils appointed to prepare Local Nature Recovery Strategies for Sussex
(Sent by West Sussex County Council to all major stakeholders)
West Sussex and East Sussex County Councils have been appointed as the ‘Responsible Authorities’ for the production of two Local Nature Recovery Strategies for Sussex over the next 18 months: one covering West Sussex, and one for East Sussex and Brighton & Hove.
Local Nature Recovery Strategies are a flagship measure in the Environment Act 2021 to encourage more coordinated, practical, and focussed action and investment in nature. It is the first time that planning for nature recovery in England has been put on a statutory footing.
We will be working in partnership to produce these stakeholder-led and evidence-based strategies, supported by Brighton & Hove City Council and Natural England. We will explore what actions can be taken to address the biodiversity crisis in Sussex as well as related matters, including the impacts of climate change.
To develop these Local Nature Recovery Strategies, we will work in collaboration with key stakeholders, including the Sussex Nature Partnership, local authorities, the South Downs National Park Authority and the bodies for the two Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the Sussex Wildlife Trust, and major landowners.
Deborah Urquhart, West Sussex County Council’s Cabinet Member for Environment and Climate Change, said: “I’m delighted that the County Council has been appointed to prepare the Local Nature Recovery Strategy for West Sussex. We look forward to working with East Sussex County Council, our partners, and a wide range of stakeholders, including local communities, farmers and landowners, and biodiversity and natural environment experts. We want our Local Nature Recovery Strategies for Sussex to link nature to people and places and to explore what actions can be taken to deliver positive change for nature and to aid its recovery.”
Notes to editors:
- Local Nature Recovery Strategies are a new policy contained in the Environment Act 2021.
- The responsible authorities are now able to begin preparing their strategies, which should take between 12-18 months. They will begin working with local stakeholders over the next few months.
- On 23 March 2023, the government published regulations and statutory guidance setting out the process that each responsible authority must follow and what each strategy should include.
- The preparation of each LNRS will be supported by Natural England, the Environment Agency, and the Forestry Commission.
- LNRS will not mandate any changes to local landowners.
Planning Applications & Decisions
Investing in Better Roads
(Sent by West Sussex County Council to all major stakeholders)
West Sussex County Council is investing a further £4.5 million into maintaining the county’s highways and roads following a sharp increase in the number of safety defects and issues being reported by our residents.
This gives a total boost of £14.5 million to funding for highways operations with the rest being made up of the £7 million increase in funds for road maintenance from the Council’s capital budget, and £3 million allocated to the county by central government for pothole repairs. We will continue to monitor the impact this increased funding has on the condition of the road network and will review if further investment is required.
Last year, West Sussex experienced one of its hottest summers, which was then followed by higher-than-average rainfall from September to January combined with extremely cold periods in the winter months. These extreme fluctuations in the weather caused repeated expansion and contraction of the road surfaces, which led to a higher-than-normal number of potholes forming.
Over the past four years, the County Council has received 15,800 reports about potholes on average per year. Within the first 5 months of 2023, we have received 22,000 reports of potholes and this number will continue to grow as the year progresses.
In order to make best use of resources, West Sussex County Council has introduced a number of proactive measures to try and tackle the ongoing problems faced by those who use our approximately 4,000km of road network.
The agreed funding will be used to provide resources to repair potholes including additional gangs working on the road network and procurement of an additional road patching machine, bringing our total to three road patching machines operating within the county this year. We will also be carrying out drainage works and refreshing signs and lines across West Sussex to improve visibility and safety.
Cllr Joy Dennis, Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport said: “We understand the frustrations felt by those who use our county’s roads over the poor conditions found in some areas and the impact this can have on their journeys. Please know that we feel that frustration too and are working hard to make improvements.
“This year, the County Council has agreed to exceptional one-off funding of £4.5million which is in addition to our agreed yearly budget for road maintenance. I am confident that this will enable us to tackle the majority of the current backlog of repairs through the summer months and provide smoother journeys to residents.”
Road users can report potholes using our online form. Please provide as much detail as you can about the size and exact location to help us to respond quickly. https://www.westsussex.gov.uk/roads-and-travel/report-a-pothole-online/
GATCOM News Bulletin
RSN Rural Funding Digest – July 2023 Edition
To access the new Rural Funding Digest please click this hyperlink.
The Rural Bulletin – 4 July 2023
To access the new Rural Bulletin please click this hyperlink.
Chief executive’s bulletin6 July 2023 A new online event on reconnecting communities through community transport This week NALC launched another online event on reconnecting communities through community transport on 27 March 2024. In recent years, the provision of community transport has become an increasingly important issue for local (parish and town) councils. This event will showcase successful community transport programmes that local councils have implemented, provide details about the national stakeholders, and show how local councils can collaborate with other organisations to improve transport options in their area. Register your place today and visit our website to learn more about our other online events. National Assembly agenda papers NALC’s National Assembly will next meet on 11 July 2023. The assembly comprises councillor representatives from all 43 county associations. Next week’s agenda includes NALC committee elections, strategic updates on the office move, proposals on NALC governance, updates from committee chairs and a discussion on the climate emergency, including a guest speaker from Utility Aid. You can read the full agenda on our website. On the blog: The Climate Coalition The Climate Coalition, the UK’s largest group dedicated to action against climate change, writes this week’s blog. Local councils have a unique opportunity to spearhead initiatives in the communities they know best, which will contribute to a more sustainable future. The blog lists five ways local councils and communities in the UK can get involved, tackle climate change, and create more climate-friendly environments. These include communications, sustainable practices, encouraging low-carbon travel, promoting nature and green spaces, and collaboration and partnerships. Read the blog to learn how your local council can create climate-friendly environments that contribute to the fight against climate change. Net zero Leicestershire! This week on 3 July 2023, I gave an update on the work local councils are doing nationally to deliver on net zero to this year’s annual parish council liaison event hosted by the Leicestershire and Rutland Association of Local Councils (LRALC) and Leicestershire County Council (LCC). It was a well-attended face-to-face event, and good to hear what councils are doing locally. Another presenter flagged up the experience of one parish council that had set up a repair cafe saving some 35.3m tonnes of CO2 emissions. This annual event is an excellent example of partnership working with LRALC and LCC, also holding operational meetings every six weeks to brief clerks on developments and respond to questions. Local Government Association survey on remote meetings A survey by the Local Government Association (LGA) overwhelmingly found that most councils (95 per cent) want the powers to reintroduce virtual and hybrid technology for statutory council meetings. Two years have passed since the government’s call for evidence on the issue closing. Our chair, Cllr Keith Stevens, was also quoted in the findings: “We need to make it easier, not harder, for people to participate in civic life and get involved in their local communities. Giving local (parish and town) councils the flexibility to hold online and hybrid council meetings is a great place to start and should be decided locally and not in Downing Street”. The BBC also covered the story of the survey’s findings that councillors are quitting over in-person meetings. A legal requirement to hold full council meetings in person was temporarily dropped during the pandemic but reintroduced in May 2021. The survey found that one in 10 councils had seen members stand down since then due to the change. Why do parish councils matter? Ahead of NALC’s fringe session at the LGA Conference, representatives from the LGA’s four political groups (Conservative, Labour, Liberal Democrat and Independent) have written essays on why they think local councils matter. It includes their closeness to the communities they serve, their empowerment of local communities by involving them in decision-making processes, their ability to provide a rapid yet locally-led response to national events and to deliver essential local services and the vital role they play in environmental stewardship and in holding principal authorities to account. You can read all the essays on our website. Smaller Authorities’ Audit Appointments new website The Smaller Authorities’ Audit Appointments (SAAA) launched their new website last week. The new design has improved many functions, such as better layout and more detailed navigation, making information much more accessible and much easier to find for authorities, stakeholders and the general public. The new website has various key documents, explains the audit process in more detail, and allows searching by county area for the appointed auditor. It also contains Google Analytics, which will allow for more significant insights to help make further improvements in the future. Check out the website! Eden Project — Community Nature Trails The Eden Project is inviting local communities to get involved with their new initiative and create a Community Nature Trail this summer. A Community Nature Trail is a local map developed by the community for the community that highlights spaces, activities, events, and projects that helps bring people closer to nature and each other. The Eden Project partnered with RSPB, More Human, and members of the Community Action Collective to develop the project. More Human, a community events expert organisation, has made it easy for communities to build, promote, and share nature trails. This summer, you can get the neighbourhood involved in nature-related activities by creating your Community Nature Trail today! And finally… Last week, we shared some information on our partners, GoCollaborate, offering free online demonstrations of their consultation and engagement tool. Unfortunately, the date for their session was incorrect. County officers, councillors and clerks can register for a half-hour session on 10 July at 11 am or 2 pm to see and discuss how the tool can be used to gain high-quality community feedback and information needed to assist in making robust and inclusive planning decisions. |
NALC Newsletter
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Newsletter 30/06/23
Mid Sussex Voluntary Action celebrates after receiving £252,712 in National Lottery funding
Mount Noddy Tennis Courts
(Sent by MSDC Estate Team)
We are writing to advise you that improvement works will be taking place at Mount Noddy tennis courts, week beginning 3 July. These improvements, include the refurbishment of the two lower tennis courts and the installation of new electronic access gates for these courts.
The work is scheduled to take place week beginning 3 July 2023 and will last for approximately seven weeks. All works are limited to only the lower two tennis courts, though the contractor will be setting up a small compound.
The refurbished of the tennis courts should not have an impact on the use of other areas or local residents.
Planning Applications & Decisions
Road Closure date notification – Portland Road, East Grinstead – Carriageway Resurfacing – 11/07/2023 – North Mid Sussex
Please be advised that Portland Road in East Grinstead is due to be closed on Tuesday 11th of July 2023 for carriageway resurfacing. An alternative route for traffic will be signed on site. Please note that these works are weather dependant and subject to change, 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 11th January 2022.
| 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) |
| Portland Road,
East Grinstead |
High Street to Ship Street |
11/07/2023 – 12/07/2023
|
08:00 – 18:00 |
If you have any questions regarding this specific closure, please reply to this email directly.
Further information can also be found via one.network
NALC Newsletter
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Newsletter 23/06/23
TRO Consultation: Blackwell Farm Road Waiting Restrictions
West Sussex County Council proposes to make a permanent Traffic Regulation Order that will introduce various short lengths of new double yellow lines near the traffic island at the northern junction of Blackwell Farm Road with Elizabeth Crescent in East Grinstead.
Below is a link to the TRO Team’s consultation web page, containing plans showing the new restriction, the public notice, statement of reasons for proposing the Order, and the draft Order itself. I should be grateful if you could accept this message as the formal consultation on the proposed new Order. If you wish to make any comments or objections to the scheme, please make them to me by e-mail before 13 July 2023. (martin.moore@westsussex.gov.uk)
https://www.westsussex.gov.uk/roads-and-travel/traffic-regulation-orders/
TRO Consultation: East Grinstead Lingfield Road
West Sussex County Council proposes to make a permanent Traffic Regulation Order that will extend an existing length of double yellow line on the eastern side of Lingfield Road in East Grinstead so that it runs from the junction with Durkins Road northwards for a distance of approximately 20m.
Below is a link to the TRO Team’s consultation web page, containing plans showing the new restriction, the public notice, statement of reasons for proposing the Order, and the draft Order itself. I should be grateful if you could accept this message as the formal consultation on the proposed new Order. If you wish to make any comments or objections to the scheme, please make them to me by e-mail before 13 July 2023. (martin.moore@westsussex.gov.uk)
https://www.westsussex.gov.uk/roads-and-travel/traffic-regulation-orders/
An Open Letter from the CEO, David Hinton – Southern Water
(Sent by CEO David Hinton to all major stakeholders)
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Planning Decisions
GATCOM News Bulletin
18th August – Invitation for youth visit to Bayham Abbey and other Mid Sussex Sponsored Events
Included below:
- Free visit to Bayham Abbey on 18th August
- Clarion Futures Free online Training Courses
- Free Training – Hidden Sentence 2nd August Burgess Hill
Free visit to Bayham Abbey on 18th August
My name is Chania and I work with young people aged 11-25 as part of English Heritage’s youth engagement programme, Shout Out Loud. The Conservation in Heritage van will be arriving at Bayham Abbey on the 18th August, and I would love to organise a visit for a local youth group to the site on this day.
The day would be paid for and the group would get to take part in a heritage-based activity with the van.
Please let me know if this is something you think the young people you work with would be interested in, or if you know of another local youth organisation I could contact.
Chania Fox | Youth Participation Officer – South East & London (Shout Out Loud) | Curatorial Department
Mob: 07824 308 68
English Heritage
6th Floor, 100 Wood
Street, London
EC2V 7AN
www.english-heritage.org.uk
Clarion Futures Free online Training Courses
Just checking in and letting you know we have some brand new upcoming training, courses and workshops.
https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/clarion-futures-32710605561
You can book onto our Employability Workshops and the Confidence Box – Confidence Building Workshops here – virtually.
We also have an account with Staff Skills Training and have access to lots of new E-Learning courses. You can have a look through their catalogue here and let me know if there’s any you’d like to complete – https://staffskillstraining.co.uk/courses/all/
Whitney Henry – Employment Support Officer
Clarion Futures Jobs & Training
Mid Sussex and Brighton & Hove
Mob: 07704 665814
Email: Whitney.henry@clarionhg.com
Free Training – Hidden Sentence 2nd August Burgess Hill
Sussex Prisoners’ Families Free Training “Hidden Sentence” for professionals supporting anyone with a loved one in prison or facing the criminal justice system. Wednesday 2nd August @ Kings Church, Burgess Hill RH15 9LR.
To book your place go to: Hidden Sentence Training Tickets, Wed 2 Aug 2023 at 10:00 | Eventbrite
Join us for this eye-opening look at the issues facing prisoners and their families. We can also offer shorter, workshop-style events and online training.
Hidden Sentence Training increases awareness of issues facing prisoners’ families and identifies ways to support them.
The course will explore the ways in which families are affected by imprisonment:
Understand the impact of imprisonment on prisoners’ families
Improve your understanding of the prison system
Understand the support needs of prisoners’ families
Understand the needs and wishes of prisoners’ families
Understand how to improve the coordination of services to provide more effective support for those affected by the imprisonment of a family member
Understand how to improve your own practice in supporting prisoners’ families
info@sussexprisonersfamilies.org.uk or call 01273 499843 for more info.
Mayor’s Blog June 2023
I’ve been asked to write a blog about my year as Town Mayor. I thought I would start by introducing myself!
Hi, my name is Frazer, and I have lived in East Grinstead all my life. I attended Chequer Mead and Sackville Schools, and at the age of 18, I started running my own family portrait studio on High Street. I’ve owned and operated Hamilton Studios for almost 25 years now, and I recently built a studio at home.
Last year, I started working at QVH as a Medical Photographer. It’s a privilege to work at such a world-renowned hospital with such inspiring staff.
I live in East Grinstead with my wife and three daughters. The youngest is in year 5, the middle one is halfway through her A-levels, and the eldest has just finished her first year at university.
I was first elected as a councillor in 2017 after the sad passing of Cllr Bob Mainstone. I love serving as a councillor and being able to serve our lovely town. After serving as Deputy Mayor last year, I was lucky enough to be re-elected this year, and on the 15th of May, I achieved a lifelong goal of becoming Mayor!
Becoming Mayor of East Grinstead is wonderful, exciting, and humbling! I’m so excited for the challenges that lie ahead of me. This year my Mayoral Charity is the QVH Charity helping children and adults who have suffered burns and trauma. I will be hosting several events throughout the year to raise funds for them.
I hit the ground running with an event in my first week—a STEM challenge at Ardingly between the senior schools in Mid Sussex, Sackville, and Imberhorne. It was a great success. I was also excited to open the new British Heart Foundation store on London Road. The new premises are lovely, and all their stock was from local donations!
June is looking even busier. Please pop back to catch up on more of what I get up to over the coming year.