The Coronation

You will be pleased to know that we have around 17 community groups, totalling over 200 people in the parade!

Starting at East Court at (approx.) 9am, there will be a ‘Monarchy through the Ages’ fancy dress walking parade lead by the Town Mayor which will process via College Lane, along the High Street and down London Road, over the footbridge and into King George’s Field.  Please come along, wave a flag, and give them a cheer. Some groups will be fundraising for their charities.

Once in King George’s Field, the ceremony will be broadcast via a big screen for all to watch together.  Bring a picnic or buy from one of our food vendors. There will be face painting and other free entertainment for the children including bouncy castle, mini golf, garden games, bungee run and kids colouring sponsored by Step by Step School.

After the ceremony, there will be best in category fancy dress prizes for crowd and parade participants, and best in category prizes in our ‘Right Royal Dog Show’.

Join us in celebrating the Coronation of King Charles III and welcoming in a new Carolean era.

As soon as we have confirmed timings our souvenir programme will be on sale at the library and at the May Fair.

Please email Alice Fletcher if you are able to help VOLUNTEER for any length of time during the day. This event cannot happen without volunteer support and we need to know in advance if you can help so we add you to the schedule. There will be tasks from coordinating the parade participants, road marshalling and putting up bunting in the field. So far I have only heard from 2 Councillors and 3 members of staff. All volunteers will receive a commemorative pin badge as a thank you.

Bin collection days stay eggs-actly the same over Easter

Mid Sussex District Council is reminding residents that rubbish and recycling collections remain the same throughout the Easter holiday period.

Over Easter – Good Friday 7 April to the Bank Holiday on Easter Monday 10 April – rubbish and recycling collection days remain unchanged. If the usual collection day is a Friday or Monday, it will remain on Friday or Monday. The Council’s optional garden waste collection service also remains unchanged.

Mid Sussex District Council keeps the service consistent as much as possible. This enables residents to plan for the service with minimal inconvenience.

Residents are asked to ensure that bins are at the edge of properties at the point nearest the highway by 7am on the day of collection. Bin lids should be closed fully to enable safe collection.
For more information, please call 01444 477440, email wastematters@midsussex.gov.uk or visit www.midsussex.gov.uk/waste-recycling.

Refurbishment of pedestrian crossing

Planning applications and decisions

NALC: Chief executive’s bulletin

6 April 2023
Emergency alert system and test on 23 April 

The Cabinet Office has launched a new system that will give the Government and emergency services the capability to send an alert directly to mobile phones when there is a risk to life. A UK-wide alerts test will take place at 15.00 on Sunday 23 April which will see people receive a test message on their mobile phones. The Emergency Alerts system will allow the government to get urgent messages quickly to nearly 90 per cent of mobile phones in a defined area. The system is now ready to be tested across the country following successful tests in East Suffolk and Reading. The alerts will only ever come from the Government or emergency services, and they will issue a warning, the details of the area impacted, and instructions about how best to respond. The Government has produced a toolkit to help councils communicate key messages as part of the Emergency Alerts campaign. This includes some key messages for motorists which may be useful, particularly given some concerns raised in the media by motoring organisations this week. An FAQ document has also been created. Although the Government is strongly recommending that people do not opt out of the service, there are concerns about vulnerable groups and especially those experiencing domestic abuse. There is information on how to opt out in the FAQs, and Refuge has produced a video on how to do this.

Pre-election period guidance reminder 

For those councils with elections this May, the pre-election period, previously known as ‘purdah’, has commenced. This is a period when councils have some restrictions placed on them in relation to their activities and communications. The Local Government Association produces pre-election period guidance that I would encourage all councils to read.

On the blog: ten top tips to improve communications in 2023 

As local councils are the closest level of government to their communities, it is essential councils communicate effectively and strategically. With the increasing reliance on technology and social media, coupled with the fact that councils are providing more services than ever, effective communication is essential in supporting effective governance. On the NALC blog this week, Daniel Purchese from NALC’s partners Breakthrough Communications shares ten top tips to help local councils improve communication with their communities over the coming year, do check it out.

Fortnightly meeting with county officers 

At this week’s meeting between county associations and NALC, there was a briefing from NALC’s HR partner Worknest. We discussed the updated version of the Good Councillor’s Guide to Being a Good Employer which is currently in its final stages of being updated. This guide will cover both legislation and good practice. We also covered performance management including regular supervision and managing concerns, and a range of other general HR queries.

Survey on councillors with non-visible disabilities 

The clerk to Pucklechurch Parish Council is conducting a survey on councillors with non-visible disabilities as part of a dissertation for the Community Engagement and Governance course. This research is of obvious interest to us given the link to our Make a Change campaign which aims to encourage more people to become councillors and increase diversity. The dissertation is titled ‘Diverse voices? Are local councils in England and Wales attracting councillors with non-visible disabilities?’, and if you have a few spare minutes please complete the survey here. The survey is split for respondents who are clerks/officers and councillors, but collects the same data just from the two different perspectives.

Last few places for NALC study visit 2023 

There are still a few places available on the NALC study visit 2023 to Newport Pagnell Town Council on 27/28 June 2023. On this study tour, you will learn more about the council’s devolved leisure services, how it manages its broader portfolio, and its challenges. You will also get exclusive behind-the-scenes access to Newport Pagnell Town Council, meet councillors and officers, and visit essential sites. You can see the full itinerary and book a place by clicking on the event page on the NALC website.

NALC National Assembly 

NALC’s National Assembly, which comprises councillor representatives from each of the 43 county associations, held its latest meeting online this week. Ahead of the draft minutes being available, here are a few highlights:

• Councillors welcomed the special additional meeting held in January which was convened to discuss the King’s Coronation and noted that since then NALC had secured clarification on a range of issues and questions raised, these were being shared more widely through the creation of a dedicated Coronation webpage.
• National Assembly received an update on the sale of NALC’s office building at 109 Great Russell Street in London and the move to alternative office space, both of which had been reported to the Management Board and Finance and Scrutiny Committee. Following an extensive discussion, it was agreed that a draft plan setting out how the realised proceeds of the sale would be used and invested and our future accommodation strategy, be further considered.
• A series of break out groups discussed how to get more people involved in the work of county associations and NALC and a more detailed summary will be available shortly.
• Other items included an update from committee chairs on their work over the last quarter (which we also report regularly including through this bulletin and the minutes of committee meetings) and an agreement for the meeting in July to be in person and the December meeting to be moved to 29 November to be on the same day as NALC’s parliamentary reception which will incorporate the presentation of the NALC Star Council Awards 2023.

And finally… 

It’s a shorter week as we can all enjoy a long Easter weekend. Fingers crossed the April showers will pass and we have a few days of Spring-like weather. Happy Easter to everyone! Ramadan Mubarak to everyone welcoming in the month of Ramadan. And Passover also began this week, Chag Pesach Sameach to everyone in the Jewish community.

Copthorne Road Closure

Free English Classes – New addition!

Airspace change masterplan: scoping the environmental assessments

Responses, if any, to be with the consultation group by 1^st May to allow for preparation and submission.

Consultation group is Cllrs Woodgate, Mrs Farren, Visser and Mrs Mockford

(Sent to all major stakeholders by the UK Civil Aviation Authority)

To ensure that environmental impact considerations are integrated into the development of the airspace change masterplan, the CAA must ensure that the masterplan is subject to a strategic environmental assessment (SEA) and a Habitats Regulations assessment (HRA). These assessments are a legal requirement.

The first stage of each of these assessments is to decide what they must cover, including the approach we propose to use. You can give us your views via our consultation on our dedicated webpage. The consultation closes on 8 May 2023.

The masterplan is being developed by the Airspace Change Organising Group to coordinate airspace changes that will upgrade and modernise UK airspace at a system level.

Once we have decided what each assessment will cover, work will begin on the actual environmental assessments for both SEA and HRA as the masterplan is developed. We will consult on those assessments later.

If you have any questions please email us at airspace.modernisation@caa.co.uk.

Airspace Modernisation
UK Civil Aviation Authority

West Sussex County Council Newsletter

‘Egg-perience’ West Sussex this Easter!

Check out Experience West Sussex which is full of exciting things to see and do over the Easter holidays.

Join Ludo the Lamb’s Easter Race or get a wriggle on with the Superworm Trail, hunt for chocolate eggs or try some spring crafts.

Soak up the spectacle of historic re-enactments, chill with an outdoor yoga session in the countryside, take a vineyard tour or test your nerve in an Escape Room and much much more!

How to contact us over the Easter break

We are here if you need to get in touch with us over the Easter Bank Holiday.

On the link below you’ll also find details of our online services, including reporting a problem with a road or pavement if you spot something on your travels, and renewing library books.

Cut the cost of composting with this special offer

Take advantage of our special offer and buy a subsidised compost bin this spring.

Composting has lots of benefits, and simply involves recycling your fruit and veg peelings, along with any other organic materials like grass cuttings, unwanted plants, tea bags, coffee grounds and egg shells.

Together, these will naturally decompose over time to produce a ready-made mixture rich in nutrients to feed your soil and nourish your garden.

It’s a great way to minimise waste collected from your household, and a simple way to help the environment and give your garden a natural boost.

Read more about composting on our waste prevention page.

Fun times in our libraries

There are some exciting storytime and craft activities for children taking place in selected libraries during the Easter school holidays.

These ‘Go Wild in the Library’ special events are free to attend but places are limited and must be pre-booked.

Clear the clutter

If you are planning a spring clean this Easter then check out the opening days and times of your local Recycling Centre on the link below.

You can also find details of the booking system, and a full list of what items you can bring to our centres, if you can’t repurpose or donate them to a charity.

Stay safe in the countryside this Easter

Visiting farms can be great fun but contact with farm animals carries a risk of catching infections from some of the bugs they naturally carry.

You can reduce this risk by washing hands thoroughly with soap and water after contact with animals, and especially before eating and drinking.

If you or anyone in your group is sick or has diarrhoea within two weeks of visiting a farm contact your GP or call NHS 111 as soon as possible.

NALC Newsletter

SCRP Annual Review 2022

Planning Applications

NALC Events

GATCOM News Bulletin

Chief executive’s bulletin

24 March 2023
Launch of The Big Help Out 

The Big Help Out is happening on the 8 May and is an initiative to celebrate and promote volunteering around the Coronation and well into the future. NALC’s chair, Cllr Keith Stevens, attended the campaign’s launch on 20 May as local government has a huge part to play both in terms of engaging with voluntary and community organisations but also in terms of opening up voluntary opportunities in and with councils. NALC is working with Neighbourly Lab, a non-profit organisation which is partnering with the Big Help Out, to support councils to get involved and be ready for the local government launch date on the 24 April. Help is available from Neighbourly Lab, such as sharing ideas for how you can get involved, supporting you to develop volunteering opportunities, and providing communication materials for councils to share locally. Neighbourly Lab is also keen to have one on one conversations with councils to find out what you’re doing and what further support would help you. They will be hosting bi-weekly coffee morning drop-in sessions starting from the 30 March for you to meet other councils and chat through plans. If you’d like to share any of your current goals for the Big Help Out, please email emma@neighbourlylab.com. To find out more about the Big Help Out including signing up and accessing support, please visit www.neighbourlylab.com/.

2023 edition of Practitioners Guide published 

This week, we published the Joint Panel on Accountability and Governance (JPAG) 2023 edition of the Practitioners’ Guide. The 2023 edition of the guide has minor updates and applies to Annual Governance and Accountability Returns regarding financial years commencing on or after 1 April 2023.

Meetings of NALC’s Management Board and Finance and Scrutiny Committee 

The main focus of meetings of the Management Board and indeed the Finance and Scrutiny Committee this week has been the current sale of the NALC office, here are a few highlights:

• The sale of 109 Great Russell Street in London and work to secure alternative accommodation whilst we review our future needs are proceeding well and councillors have agreed to conduct a major review of NALC’s budget in the light of these significant developments.
• The Board agreed to look at progress on the review of NALC’s governance at a special meeting likely to take place in July.
• Councillors supported proposals to further develop the financial advice and support which we provide to county associations and councils and more details will be available shortly.
• Plans for NALC’s presence at the Local Government Association’s annual conference in Bournemouth in July were noted, this will comprise a stand in the exhibition, a fringe event, a session in the Innovation Zone.

• Baroness Scott of Needham Market and our officers were thanked for their ongoing work making the case for changes to the Levelling Up and Regeneration Bill to address sector concerns on issues such as remote meetings and standards.
• It was noted that the Committee’s chair, Cllr Graham Ford, was no longer the Cornwall Association of Local Councils representative on National Assembly and thanked him for his work over many years, agreeing that Cllr Peter Davey, vice chair (finance) would act as chair pending a future appointment.
• The Committee also noted updated risk register and received a report on the latest financial position and cash flow which was broadly in line with budget, although some one-off costs associated with the sale of the NALC office will need to be addressed from the proceeds.

On the blog: Utility Aid 

This week’s blog comes from our partner, Utility Aid. They write about the new government Energy Bills Discount Scheme, which runs from 1 April 2023 to 31 March 2024 and replaces the previous Energy Bills Relief Scheme.

Fortnightly meeting with county officers 

At this week’s regular meeting with county officers, we were delighted to be joined by Daniel Purchese from Breakthrough Communications, NALC’s partner on council communications and engagement, as well as data protection and Freedom of Information (FOI). Daniel provided county officers with information and advice on data sharing agreements and other matters related to FOI requests. We also gave several updates including on our work engaging with the Levelling Up and Regeneration Bill, recent changes at Smaller Audit Appointments Limited and progress on our office move.

Updated advice and guidance 

I am pleased to let you know about several updated documents which are available to county associations and member councils. The briefing on VAT on sports facilities, produced by the Parkinson Partnership LLP, has been updated in light of new guidance from His Majesty’s Revenue and Customs. The Template Annual Leave Policy has been updated to reflect the additional annual leave day for staff employed on National Joint Council conditions. We have also updated Legal Topic Note (LTN) 31 on local council general powers because of legislative changes in Wales. LTN 31 will now be England only advice and be known as LTN 31E. All these documents can be found in the members area of the NALC website.

Member benefits information 

In recent months NALC has launched two new services for county associations and local councils. A new HR advisory service, in partnership with WorkNest, gives county associations access to a team of employment specialists to assist in giving advice to councils. And our e-learning offer is now available to all councils with a new range of courses developed through the Civility and Respect Project. To reflect these changes our benefits of membership information has been updated to highlight the increased range of benefits available.

Out and abouts 

In addition to spending time at the NALC office preparing for our move out of 109 Great Russell Street, several colleagues have also been out and about this week, here’s a summary:

• Last weekend, our member services manager, Anders Hanson, attended the Liberal Democrat Party Spring Conference, the party’s first in-person conference in three years. This was an opportunity to meet and build relations with councillors from local councils and principal councils. Anders also met with parliamentarians engaged the Levelling Up and Regeneration Bill and MPs representing areas with local councils.
• And to end this week, Anders has spent the last few days in Morecambe as part of the town council’s corporate peer challenge. This is a joint project with the Local Government Association and the panel also included an experienced clerk and councillor from Falmouth Town Council and Frome Town Council respectively.

• Charlotte Eisenhart, head of member services, attended an online meeting of the Internal Audit Forum (IAF) on 21 March. It was the first time NALC was able to join the Forum since the launch of our partnership and Charlotte gave an update on the Joint Panel on Accountability and Governance and the changes to the 2023 edition of the Practitioners Guide.
• On 21 March, Fflur Jones, campaigns intern, paid a visit to Flitwick Town Council who were a finalist in last year’s NALC Star Council Awards. I’m grateful to the town council for their warm welcome and hospitality and for sharing throughout the day some of their exciting projects from tackling the cost of living through their community fridge, and their Proud Ampthill and Flitwick project celebrating the town’s LGBT+ community. The visit ended with a tour of their new Youth Hub which organises a range of activities for young people as well as providing them with a safe space to hang out after school. You can find out more about the town council’s projects on their website.

NALC Policy Committee agenda papers 

The agenda papers for next week’s meeting of NALC’s Policy Committee on 28 March are now available. The committee will be considering two motions from the Leicestershire and Rutland Association of Local Councils on the Financial Services Compensation Scheme and the Transparency Code for smaller authorities. Other items on the agenda the final Local Government Finance Settlement 2023/24, our campaign for direct access to grant funding from the government, councillor training, establishing a policy on local council amenities, the Levelling Up and Regeneration Bill and the recent survey of clerks by the Society of Local Council Clerks.

And finally… 

As I mentioned in my summary of the meetings of the Management Board and Finance and Scrutiny Committee, NALC is on the move! From 31 March, we are moving out of our office at 109 Great Russell Street in London. We are in the process of finalising arrangements for alternative accommodation which will take effect from 1 May 2023. I will of course provide a further update when this has been confirmed. In the meantime, post sent to NALC’s current address will still be managed, there is no change to our email addresses or telephone numbers, and there will be no impact on the delivery of our services and support to county associations and local councils.

Email Account Deactivation

I want to remind you that come May 9th, those choosing not to stand in the upcoming election will have their @eastgrinstead.gov.uk email addresses deactivated. Please note that come this date you will no longer be able to access your account under any circumstances. Therefore, any important emails that you wish to keep (bearing in mind our commitment to GDPR*) be saved in another location accessible to you.

For those standing in the upcoming election who were not re-elected, your email will also be deactivated by May 9th. I would recommend all review their inbox and save important emails to other accessible locations.

*GDPR – Emails sent to you on your @eastgrinstead.gov.uk and intended only when in the position of Cllr should not be saved privately. Please do not save any Emails containing personal information including personal email addresses and home addresses. For more information on what you can save, please see https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2018/12/contents/enacted.

Planning Applications 24/03/23

Have your say on South East Water’s strategic priorities for the next 25 years

South East Water are consulting on their 25 year plan,  if anyone has any comments to feed in to a response please send them to the Clerk or the consultation group members (Jason, Helen, Julie or Frazer) before 1^st April as there is only a three week turn around.

(Sent by South East Water to all major stakeholders)

Have your say:

You can read our draft Strategic Direction Statement and complete our survey by visiting our dedicated engagement hub.

You can submit your views up to 23:59 on Monday 10 April.

About the SDS:

Through creating this draft SDS we’ve spoken to a wide range of customers and stakeholders, as well as reviewed existing research.

The draft statement is built upon seven key priorities:

• Provide top quality drinking water and an efficient service, support its customers and deliver greater value to society
• Manage and steward its assets, invest and innovate to ensure its water supply system is resilient to future challenges
• Protect and enhance the environment and biodiversity
• Reduce its carbon footprint, adapt to the impact of climate change and be a truly sustainable business
• Secure the future of water by protecting freshwater resources and developing new sustainable sources
• Secure the future of water by halving leakage and helping reduce the demand for water
• Be ready for the future through technology, innovation and investing in people

Council elections called for 4 May 2023

West Sussex County Council Newsletter

MSVA E-Bulletin

Please see the link attached to view the new MSVA E-Bulletin – Newsletter March 14

Annual Town Meeting

Agenda Found Below

Purdah Commences Next Week

The pre-election period, previously known as ‘purdah’, describes the period of time immediately before elections or referendums when specific restrictions on communications activity are in place. The term ‘heightened sensitivity’ is also used.

About the guidance

This guidance provides advice on the publicity restrictions that should be observed during the pre-election period. It should be read in conjunction with any guidance produced by your own returning officer or monitoring officer, which provides specific advice depending on your local circumstances.

It is important to note that pre-election rules restrict activity wider than just publicity. Use of council facilities and resources; the member’s code of conduct, developing new policies and holding of events – including some meetings – featuring elected officials should all be carefully considered during a period of heightened sensitivity.

A short guide to publicity during the pre-election period

Opportunity to provide feedback on Early Help Strategy

We are pleased to be able to share with you the draft Early Help Strategy and would like to hear your thoughts.

Below is the link to the Engagement Hub page where you can view the draft and where a survey has been created with up to 11 questions to help you share your views.

This opportunity to provide feedback will end on Thursday 30^th March after which we will study the responses and determine what people like about the Strategy draft; what people feel is missing; and what format or formats people would like to see the Strategy presented in. If any Cllr wishes to make a response on behalf of the council please send your comments to the Clerk no later than 28^th to allow it to be collated and approved by the consultation group.

https://yourvoice.westsussex.gov.uk/early-help-strategy

Planning Application & Decisions

By-election called for East Grinstead Meridian Electoral Division

A by-election has been called by West Sussex County Council following the resignation of Liz Bennett as County Councillor for the East Grinstead Meridian Electoral Division.

The by-election will be held on Thursday, 4^th May 2023 with candidates announced on Wednesday, 5^th April 2023.

People are reminded that due to new rules, photo ID is now required when voting at polling stations in local elections. More details can be found here: Voter ID | Electoral Commission

​

For further information please contact the news desk on 0330 222 8090 or email pressoffice@westsussex.gov.uk.

For urgent out-of-hours enquiries please call 07767 098415.

Mid Sussex Local Cycling & Walking Infrastructure Plan

(Transport for the South East newsletter sent to all major stakeholders)

NALC’s Newsletter

Council funding for Coronation celebrations

Mid Sussex District Council is making £20,000 available to local community groups and voluntary organisations to help Mid Sussex residents celebrate the Coronation of His Majesty King Charles III.

People across the country and the Commonwealth will celebrate the Coronation of His Majesty The King and Her Majesty The Queen Consort over a weekend of special events on 6-8 May.

The extended Bank Holiday provides an opportunity for communities to come together to mark the historic event and Mid Sussex District Council has created a special grant fund of £20,000 to support and facilitate community parties and events within the district.

The funding will help non-profit making community and voluntary organisations with the cost of celebrations on The King’s Coronation Weekend. The Council is promoting the fund through the Voluntary Sector Network and organisations can apply online on the Council’s dedicated Coronation page www.midsussex.gov.uk/the-coronation/

The deadline to apply for this one-off grant is 5pm on 31 March 2023.

Councillor Norman Webster, Cabinet Member for Community said:

“The coronation of a new monarch is a significant moment in our history and many people in the UK and across the Commonwealth will be keen to celebrate.

“We’re supporting people in Mid Sussex by providing one-off grants to help local people get community events up and running.

“Street parties are always a popular way to celebrate but His Majesty The King is also inviting neighbours and communities to share food and fun together as part of The Coronation Big Lunch on Sunday 7 May.

“The Coronation will be a wonderful time to celebrate with friends, family and neighbours but it also provides an opportunity to give something back to the community. The Big Help Out on Monday 8 May encourages people to try volunteering and join the work being undertaken to support their local areas on Monday 8 May.

“Whatever you choose to do, we are here to support you, especially if your event demonstrates a clear benefit to the local community. If you’d like to apply for support, please do so as soon as possible because applications close at the end of this month.”

For more information about the Coronation Community grant fund please email culture@midsussex.gov.uk

ENDS

Unseen Deadly Danger

West Sussex Trading Standards are reminding residents to be careful when buying electrical products online. The safety warning comes after a person suffered a serious electric shock from the metal casing of a device bought on Amazon.

The device, a PoE (Power over Ethernet) switch, was supplied with a standard three-pin cable, commonly referred to as a ‘kettle lead’. A sample lead was found to have the earth wire connected to the live pin, meaning the metal casing of the PoE device became live when plugged in.

“The danger of this power lead was hidden inside a moulded plug, and it was inevitable the user would receive an electric shock,” said Peter Aston, Trading Standards Team Manager. “It’s only as a result of luck the reported accident didn’t result in a fatality; although the resident is suffering long term nerve pain and remains under medical investigation.”

The power lead was also fitted with an unsafe fuse which could have resulted in injury or fire. Trading Standards Officers took immediate steps to ensure these items were removed from sale and a product recall was undertaken.

Investigations found that the seller was based in China. “Our advice for anyone purchasing electrical products or power leads is to buy them from a reputable business in the UK”, said Peter Aston. “Exercise care when buying something online that appears to be a particular bargain.”

Duncan Crow, West Sussex County Council Cabinet Member for Community Support, Fire and Rescue, said: “The dangerous nature of this product is thankfully not something our Trading Standards Officers come across often, but the unseen deadly risk it posed is of great concern.”

If you live in West Sussex and have bought an unsafe electrical product, you can let Trading Standards know by calling Citizens’ Advice Consumer Service on 03454 040506 or by going online to. www.westsussex.gov.uk/tsreport

Notes to Editors

Power over Ethernet (PoE) systems allow electricity to pass along Ethernet cabling. A single cable can therefore provide both a data connection and a small electrical supply, sufficient to power and operate a number of CCTV cameras or similar devices.

Recall details can be found at: https://www.gov.uk/product-safety-alerts-reports-recalls/product-recall-nicgiga-11-port-gigabit-poe-switch-2301-0164

ENDS

Chief executive’s bulletin

New NALC cost-of-living support webpage
Our new cost-of-living support webpage was launched this week to help local (parish and town) councils support their communities through the cost-of-living crisis. The webpage provides valuable resources, practical advice, and examples of local councils demonstrating good practices to support their community.

Localis essay collection on local government finance
Ahead of the forthcoming March Budget, the think tank Localis has asked some of the major players from the local government family, experts, and academics, to set out their thoughts, views and hopes for local government finance in the next political cycle. I’m delighted to be among the contributors to Moving through the gears, an essay collection covering perspectives on what the future could, should and might be for local government finance. In my essay, I talk about how local councils are often overlooked when it comes to local government finance, how they are changing and doing more and are an increasingly important cog in the council finance wheel, and what 2030 could look like through the lens of the fictitious Flowers on the River Community Council. Do check it out.

DCMS Coronation website
The Department for Culture, Media, and Sport (DCMS) recently launched a Coronation website which includes information for getting involved, a toolkit including templates and a Coronation playlist, and a form for submitting events. DCMS will upload social media materials to the Coronation website from 6 March 2023. The toolkit page currently has links to the Coronation Emblem guidelines, recipes, and a playlist, but it will have more from the beginning of March, including any official images. You can find all this information on NALC’s dedicated Coronation webpage.

On the blog: BHIB Councils Insurance on Coronation events
Staying on the King’s Coronation theme, this week’s blog is written by Lee Cleaver from NALC’s partner BHIB Councils Insurance. With King Charles III’s Coronation coming up on 6 May 2023, he explains the importance of conducting risk assessments in your local council to ensure Coronation events are planned and conducted safely. Check it out and let us know what you are doing to celebrate the historic occasion of the King’s Coronation at policycomms@nalc.gov.uk.

Top 10 communications tips for local councils
NALC’s communications and community engagement partners, Breakthrough Communications, have published their top 10 tips for local (parish and town) council communications in 2023. Discover strategies and tactics to make your council’s communications more effective over the coming year!

NALC National Network: Young councillors
Are you a young councillor? Do you want to connect with other young councillors from across the country? Would you find mutual support from other young councillors helpful? Are you keen on sharing learning and good practice? Interested in getting involved in NALC’s work and campaigns? Then NALC’s National Network: Young councillors is for you! You can join the network here and the next meeting is on 8 March, with the agenda including councillor training and an open forum.

And finally…
Today we are holding Standards Matter, our first in-person event since October 2019, on the important standards theme. I know that all the councils, county associations, NALC partners, speakers, and exhibitors joining us in London have been looking forward to returning together after all this time! A quick early thanks to everyone who joined us, plus our event sponsors BHIB Councils Insurance, Blachere Illumination and CCLA, for helping make it happen – I’ll provide a further update in my bulletin next week, so do look out for that!

Council includes significant investments in 2023/24 budget

Mid Sussex District Council (MSDC) approved its Corporate Plan and Budget for 2023/24 at a meeting of Full Council on Wednesday 1 March 2023.

The current high levels of inflation present considerable financial challenges for the public sector, just as they do for private businesses and household budgets. Mid Sussex District Council has worked hard to maintain financial stability and attract investment into the District; a prudent financial approach that has helped to protect frontline services, fund ambitious new projects and maintain one of the lowest levels of Council Tax in Sussex.

Each year the Council sets out how it will deliver its services and use its financial resources over the next 12 months. The plan is created in line with the Council’s key priorities; to provide effective and responsive services, create sustainable economic growth, deliver strong and resilient communities, and maintain financial independence.

In 2023/24 Mid Sussex District Council will continue to progress several key investment projects including, improvements in four major parks and play areas, the delivery of more temporary housing and construction of a new Centre for Outdoor Sports to the west of Burgess Hill.

The Council will invest in the expansion of its kerbside garden waste collections subscription service, enabling more people to conveniently recycle their green waste. There is currently a waiting list for the popular service and investment would enable an additional 7,500 residents to benefit from fortnightly garden waste collections. The capacity of the bulky waste service will also be increased, helping to tackle fly-tipping.

The budget includes increases to some fees and charges to help offset the rising cost of providing Council services. Council Tax will increase by 2.75%, which is £4.95 for an average Band D property, but which is a lower increase than permitted by the Government’s cap.

Councillor Jonathan Ash-Edwards, Leader of Mid Sussex District Council said:

“The past few years have been extremely tough financially, with first the Covid-19 pandemic and now the inflationary shock having a significant impact on all organisations, not just local Government.

“Our council has spent millions of pounds since 2020 to keep our key services going, particularly our much-valued leisure centres. However, now is a time we can be positive about the future because, through careful decision making and sound financial management, this is the first budget post covid where we’re not having to draw on reserves to support our day-to-day work.

“We are delivering a budget where Council Tax rises by less than the Government’s cap, that includes additional support for people on low incomes and continues to invest in our local services.

“This year we’re investing in our waste and recycling service by increasing the number our bulky and garden waste collections we provide for our residents. We are also helping people who fall on hard times to get back on their feet through our homelessness prevention work and by building new temporary accommodation at Swan Mead in East Grinstead.

“Work to build our new Centre for Outdoor Sport in Burgess Hill is due to start later this year. It represents the biggest investment in outdoor sports for a generation and will deliver modern community sports facilities for the whole community to enjoy.

“Finally, we will be working to improve our flagship parks across the district. These beautiful open spaces in the heart of our communities mean so much to local people and we are investing in their future to ensure they remain a wonderful place for our residents to visit.

“I’m delighted that the budget was unanimously approved by Councillors on a cross-party basis.”

ENDS

East Grinstead Choral Society

Big Town Clean Up

Details of the Big Town Clean Up organised by East Grinstead Town Action Group are below:

GATCOM News Bulletin

Planning applications and decisions

East Grinstead Town Council’s Local Election!

Council awards £160,000 for local community projects

(PR 2492 produced by Mid Sussex District Council) 

Mid Sussex District Council has awarded almost £160,000 in Section 106 developer contributions and Council grant funding to support valuable community projects in the area.

The Cabinet Grants Panel met on 20 February 2023 to discuss the Council’s latest round of grant funding allocations and agreed to issue a total of £159,000 to 9 community organisations. The funding awards will be formally confirmed on 2 March following a 10 day ‘call-in’ period.

Clarion Futures, a charitable foundation established by the Clarion Housing Group has been awarded £52,500 to help the Quarry Café and Community Fridge in East Grinstead to create an attractive outdoor seating area for people visiting the café or using the recently upgraded playground alongside.

The Quarry Café supports the local community by collecting surplus food and creating meals for those who need a helping hand. The new outdoor seating area will create additional space, providing an attractive area for residents to meet and enjoy quality food and drink at affordable prices. The pathways will be improved, with two drop down kerbs and a ramp, increasing accessibility to and around the community café.

Haywards Heath Town Football Club received £12,239 towards the development of an indoor café and education room at Hanbury Stadium. The club’s Pilgrim Hut is currently only suitable for storage, but the Board has ambitious plans for renovation that would include the installation of a new kitchen and outdoor patio area. The refurbished hut will provide improved catering facilities playing staff and supporters, a place for players to rest and recover away from the clubhouse and a secure classroom for educational activities.

Worth Parish Council was awarded £65,509 towards the installation of CCTV cameras in the villages of Copthorne and Crawley Down. The cameras will be monitored by Sussex Police as part of a CCTV Partnership, helping to deter anti-social behaviour and petty crime.

The funding awards to Clarion Futures, Haywards Heath Town Football Club and Worth Parish Council are all funded by Section 106 contributions, financial payments made by developers towards the improvement of local infrastructure.

Mid Sussex District Council demonstrated support for refugees fleeing the war in Ukraine by granting £17,752 to three local organisations that are working to help them settle in the area. All Saints Lindfield received £8,660 to set up a new drop-in service at The Yews, Haywards Heath. Being Neighbourly in East Grinstead received £3,543 towards the establishment of a support group and updating their website to include a page for Ukrainian refugees. In Burgess Hill and the surrounding areas, HUGS 4 Ukraine received £4,900 towards creating a website, supporting drop-in sessions and delivering celebratory events.

The Council also allocated £5,000 towards the installation of 28 solar panels on the roof of 1^st Hurstpierpoint Scout Group headquarters, £5,000 towards upgrading the kitchen and outdoor seating at Balcombe Cricket Club and £1,000 to help local charity Befriended set up a new community choir.

Councillor Norman Webster, Mid Sussex Cabinet Member for Community said:

“We’re really lucky to have so many people in Mid Sussex who are willing to give up their time to support their local community and who work so hard to make our District such a wonderful place to live.

“Charities and voluntary groups are working on some fantastic projects and I’m delighted that we’re able to support so many with grant funding. Each project is going to make a real difference to the lives of local people by encouraging participation in sport, preventing crime, improving sustainability, and helping those in need.”

For more information contact the Mid Sussex District Council Community Services Team on 01444 477495 or email Regina.Choudhury@midsussex.gov.uk.

NABMA Markets Survey Summary 02/03/23

NABMA has recently published its latest National Survey of the Markets Industry revealing that there are major challenges for the UK industry in the future. The Survey may be of interest to your members recognising the huge interest in markets from local councils, as evident in our membership. Please feel free to circulate the Survey.

The Survey and headlines can be read

The number of Markets across the country remains about the same over the last fifteen years at around 1150, with some Markets still performing very successfully but the overall picture is less attractive. Stall occupancy is down from any average of 77% in 2018 to 72% in 2022 and that figure needs to be considered with caution as there is evidence of a substantial reduction in stalls since 2018 meaning there are substantially fewer traders operating on Markets.

Trader numbers have reduced and The Survey has reveals that only 8% of traders are under 40 suggesting that within a short time we could see a disappearance of many older and very experienced traders. Local authorities dominate markets management with around 84% of Markets being operated under the auspices of local authorities that includes a significant number of parish, town and community councils.

It is of great concern that only 40% of Markets are currently showing a surplus on their trading account which again represents a significant decline from the picture revealed in the last Survey in 2018.

Markets are recognised as a major force for High Street regeneration and one of the more welcoming results from the Survey is that 25 Markets are announcing major redevelopment/ refurbishment plans with the assistance of £127m of government and local authority funding. This indicates confidence in Markets but in order to secure the successful implementation of the various funded projects , and the future of the markets industry, NABMA recognises the need to address the challenges issues highlighted in the 2022 Survey.

Planning Applications & Decisions

GATCOM News Bulletin

The CAP consultation (Airspace) has been extended to 19^th March.  If anyone has any comments the Town Clerk will need them by next week at the latest.

EGBA’s Networking Event

MSVA E-Bulletin,  24 February 2023

Follow this link to access the newsletter – MSVA E-Bulletin, 24 February 2023

NALC’s Newsletter

Arthur Crawfurd

We have been advised that  Mr Arthur Crawfurd (great grandson of Charles Crawfurd, the first Chairman of the UDC) passed away on 4^th February. Mr Crawfurd along with his brother David, presented the Council with a new cushion for the Chairman’s Chair when Danny Favor was Mayor. For anyone who wants to attend the funeral it is to be held at the Kent and Sussex Crematorium (Tunbridge Wells) at 3.15pm on 9^th March. Donations in lieu of flowers are requested to the RSPCA.

Business/Retail Crime in East Grinstead  – Your Chance to Have Your Say

It has been identified that business/retail crime has increased in Mid Sussex and there are very real concerns in East Grinstead.  As a result, there is a wish to understand what local businesses are facing on a daily basis and a commitment to help you with reporting such crime in the future.

On Tuesday 7^th March 2023 a meeting is being held of senior Sussex Police Officers, Mid Sussex District Council and East Grinstead Town Council representatives.  This meeting has been requested by the Sussex Police Crime Commissioner, who will be in attendance, and West Sussex Association of Local Councils.

The community stakeholders in the town need to hear the business community’s views, concerns and experiences relating to business/retail crime in the Town.  There will also be a chance for you to understand what is proposed moving forward to help fight business crime and increase reporting.

To this end, this letter is a formal invitation to attend the meeting, which will take place between 2 and 4 pm in the Council Chamber at East Grinstead Town Council, East Court.

If you wish to attend, please call the number above or email townclerk@eastgrinstead.gov.uk .  We do hope that you will take time out of your busy schedule to join us for this very important meeting, it is your chance to make your point of view heard by those who are charged with tackling crime in our town.

St Barnabus EGTC Update

The local search was received on Thursday this week, however, the sellers have not (as of yet) completed the paperwork for the transfer concerning the overage clause.  Once we have all of this we should be able to complete.   The money has also been received from the PWLB so that we can complete as soon as the papers are signed.

Once signed we will be going in to assess any immediate works that are needed before we can get the paying public in.  Our Community and Tourism Manager has been working on the list of hirers and the advertising.

More updates will be reported to the A&T Committee next month.

Felbridge Locals Get Chance To Own Their Homes In A First For Mid Sussex

In a first for Mid Sussex, local people have the chance to become homeowners despite having no savings, thanks to an innovative partnership between Mid Sussex District Council and affordable Rent to Buy providers, Rentplus-UK.

The new partnership means eight new affordable Rent to Buy homes were made available, close to Felbridge on a prestigious Abbey Developments site, known as Martins Mead. Under the model, private finance funds new affordable housing at no cost to the local council.

The tenants started their home ownership journey by moving into their brand-new homes without paying any upfront deposit.  They will pay an affordable rent based on the Local Housing Allowance for 5 years living in the home that they will one day own whilst they save up to buy it and build a good credit history.

By paying a below market rent they can save more each month. At the outset, they choose whether to buy their home after 5, 10, 15 or 20 years. They move in with no deposit and when they come to purchase, Rentplus will gift them 10% of their home’s value at that time to add to their savings and reduce the mortgage they need. They will buy their home using a high-street mortgage and then buy 100% of it as if they had bought on the open market.

Local MP Mims Davies MP joined with Councillors from Mid Sussex District Council to welcome new residents into the new homes they will be buying.

The new homes consist of 6 x 2-bedroom Houses and 2 x 3-bedroom houses and all have fenced gardens and a secure bicycle storage unit in the garden. All applicants were required to have previously lived in, or have connections to Mid Sussex

The Rentplus homes saw over 100 applicants and all homes have now been allocated. All tenants are key or essential workers, including working in the NHS and emergency services or local schools. Six were previously living in social housing properties in the district which they have freed up for reallocating. The remaining two were on the Council’s Housing Register.

At the opening, Emma George, Area Director for the South East at Rentplus, said: “Affordability is an issue across the country. We’re excited to be offering Rentplus homes in Mid Sussex, to offer local homes for local people, enabling hard working people to stay living in the communities they grew up in.”

Councillor Salisbury Mid-Sussex District Council added:
“It is wonderful to see new homes being provided to help local people move towards home ownership.  In doing so, this will also free up existing social housing for others, which provides another huge benefit to our district.”

Local MP, Mims Davies added: “These homes are life changing for the tenants moving in and are an inspiration for those who are aspiring to buy but may be finding it difficult to save for a deposit. Mid-Sussex District Council and Rentplus are doing something quite forward thinking, in helping local people achieve this.  It was good to meet some of the families.  Thank you to Sarah and her girls and Marcus for showing me around their homes.  They now have the chance to become homeowners and we wish them well in their new homes.”

Mims Davies and Councillor Salisbury joined with the two households to plant a sweet cherry tree, part of the Rentplus commitment to plant trees for the late Queen’s Jubilee Canopy.

Planning Applications and Decisions

Overnight works begin soon to upgrade the road surface on the A264, East Grinstead

Essential resurfacing works to provide a safe and durable travel surface on the A264 between London Road (A22) and Blackwell Farm Road, East Grinstead are due to start on Monday 27 February.

West Sussex County Council have identified that the current road surface is showing signs of significant weakening of the carriageway structure so will be completing overnight works to remove the existing surfacing and lay a replacement resilient surface in its place.

These works will provide a smoother running surface to improve the ride quality and lessen road noise, improve the condition of the road structure and maximise its life through increased durability. The high friction surfacing on the approaches to the pedestrian crossing will also be restored.

The length of the A264 will be closed to all through-traffic while the operations are being carried out, with side roads potentially also being affected. Closures will be clearly signposted, and a signed diversion route will be in place for all vehicles.

A West Sussex Highways officer explained: “To reduce the impact of road closures on the local community, the main resurfacing works will take place overnight between 8pm and 6am each day with all works scheduled to be completed by the 8 March 2023. Please note, this date could change due to unforeseen circumstances, such as the further effects of severe weather.

“Whist we cannot complete these works without generating noise, which we understand may disrupt residents’ sleep, every effort will be made to carry out the noisiest operations in the earliest part of the evening and before 11pm.

“Access to all properties will be maintained where possible, however may be delayed or restricted when works are being carried out in the immediate vicinity. Vehicles will not be able to park on the road during closure hours. A Traffic Regulation Order will be in place and any vehicle parked here during this time may be subject to a Fixed Penalty Notice.”

If you have any queries on the day regarding how the works are being carried out near you, then please feel free to ask to speak to the on-site Site Supervisor who is normally best placed to address your concerns.

The council will also use this opportunity to complete carriageway patching works on Holtye Road between Blackwell Farm Road and the East Sussex boundary. These works will follow on directly from the resurfacing works, starting in the evening of 8 March 2023 and are due to take 3 nights to complete. This work will utilise an extension of the A264 road closure, with traffic being diverted via the same diversion as the previous scheme.

Budget 2023/2024 Special Edition Invest and Support

(Sent to all major stakeholders by WSCC)

Welcome to our Budget Special Edition Residents’ eNewsletter.

A council plan and a £1.86 billion budget which ensures support, investment and essential services continue for all West Sussex residents has been approved by West Sussex County Council.

County councillors voted in favour of both the plan and the budget at a meeting of the Full Council last Friday (17 February).

Budget for the next year includes:

• £883m managing schools and education
• £458m caring for adults and keeping people healthy
• £174m supporting children and young people
• £84m adapting to climate change, recycling and waste disposal
• £80m maintenance of our roads and providing transport
• £56m Fire and Rescue Service and supporting local communities
• £44m supporting the local economy and running our organisation.

A council tax increase was also approved of 2.99% plus an additional 2% for adult social care, making a total increase of 4.99%.

That means an average band D property will see an increase of around £77.67 per year or £1.50 per week.

Leader of the Council Councillor Paul Marshall said:

“As well as the huge task we have of funding day-to-day services for vulnerable adults, children and families, we have successfully managed our finances so we can continue to fund improvements in our highways and infrastructure for the benefit of our residents, communities and businesses.”

The budget supports the four priorities of the county council’s corporate plan, called Our Council Plan, all of which are underpinned by the theme of tackling climate change.

The priorities are:

• Keeping people safe from vulnerable situations
• A sustainable and prosperous economy
• Helping people and communities to fulfil their potential
• Making best use of resources.

To find out more about the budget, what we spend, where your money goes, and how to access help and advice, click on the link below.

County Council approves council plan and budget to deliver investment and support

County Council requests new powers to improve road safety and tackle congestion

(Sent to all major stakeholders by WSCC)

Green light for £17.4million boost for West Sussex bus travel

(Sent to all major stakeholders by WSCC)

The green light has been given for a £17.4million boost for bus service improvements in West Sussex. West Sussex County Council successfully bid for the Government cash injection, aimed at increasing bus passenger numbers, which in turn will help support the local economy and reduce traffic congestion – all crucial parts of Our Council Plan .

Joy Dennis, Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport, said: “The £17.4million Department for Transport funding is excellent news for the whole of the county – and bus passengers in particular.

“We are working in partnership with the bus companies to do all we can to try to make bus travel as attractive as possible, help increase passenger numbers and thereby make it easier for people to get to essential services, shops and businesses, education and leisure facilities and to leave cars at home in favour of this more sustainable way to travel.”

A range of schemes will now be developed, including:

• A discounted concessionary bus travel scheme to encourage young people, aged 16 to 21, to use the buses
• The introduction of ‘Tap On – Tap Off’ fare technology across busses operating within the county
• Installation of 300 new Real Time Passenger Information displays at countywide locations, providing electronic display screens, which are popular with both passengers and bus operators
• Improved bus stops at countywide sites, with new poles, flags, hardstanding, disabled access, shelters, seating, lighting and nearby crossing points
• Improvements to the bus lanes in Station Way, Crawley and the bus lane priority set up in Manor Royal, Crawley
• Creation of a new transport hub in Crawley, providing a single place to swap between different modes of public transport

The Department for Transport funding news follows the ongoing £2 fare scheme, which has been confirmed to be extended until June, and the recent County Council’s “Bus It” campaign – which encouraged senior residents to consider returning to the buses to take full advantage of their eligible free pass.

Police visibility is a priority

(Sent by Katy Bourne OBE to all major stakeholders)

Cabinet Member reflects on support for Ukrainians in West Sussex

(Sent to all major stakeholders by WSCC)

Duncan Crow, West Sussex County Council Cabinet Member for Community Support, Fire & Rescue, on the one-year anniversary of the war in Ukraine:

“Since Russia’s illegal invasion of Ukraine began last year, West Sussex County Council has actively engaged with the government led schemes, alongside partner organisations, district and borough councils and voluntary groups, to support those fleeing conflict in Ukraine and seeking safety in West Sussex.

“We have delivered on the local authority requirements on the Homes For Ukraine Scheme, enabling residents to become sponsors and welcome guests into their homes. We have also worked in conjunction with Gatwick airport to deliver a welcome point for Ukrainians arriving into the UK.

“Residents across the county have demonstrated their support and welcome, and the County Council continues to be appreciative of these efforts. Our Ukrainian Support Team and Community Hub also remain available to support Ukrainian families and their hosts.

“As we approach the one-year anniversary tomorrow and join in the one-minute silence at 11am, we will have the opportunity to reflect on the impact the war has had on those who remain in Ukraine and those who have been displaced, whilst also taking the time to remember those who have lost their lives since the war began.”

To find out more about how the County Council is responding to the conflict in Ukraine, visit www.westsussex.gov.uk and search for ‘conflict in Ukraine’.

If you or someone you know needs help from the Ukraine Support Team, you can email UkraineSupport@westsussex.gov.uk or call the Community Hub on 033 022 27980. Lines are open 9am – 5pm seven days a week, including Saturdays, Sundays and bank holidays.

Council supports renewal of Manor Royal BID

(Sent to all major stakeholders by WSCC)

West Sussex County Council endorses the renewal of Manor Royal’s Business Improvement District (BID) for another five years.

The Manor Royal Business District is the most strategically significant business park in the county, making a significant contribution to the economy of West Sussex through being home to approximately 500 businesses which support 30,000 jobs.

The Manor Royal Business District is a significant component of the Crawley Growth Programme, which is the delivery arm of the Crawley Growth Deal. Working in partnership with Crawley Borough Council, the Manor Royal BID and West Sussex County Council, the Crawley Growth Programme has allowed for the aggregation and alignment of public and private funds to deliver key infrastructure needs in Crawley.

This partnership has delivered concrete benefits for the businesses in Manor Royal and the residents of Crawley. These include:

• Manor Royal Highways Improvements including the Gatwick Road Roundabout
• Churchill Court, a renovated office space and business campus
• Upgrading of Manor Royal’s busiest access point
• Installation of digital signs in Manor Royal

After each five-year term, businesses must vote again to renew the BID or it will close and stop delivering services. This voting round will ensure the BID continues until 2028.

In line with Our Council Plan to support and grow a sustainable and prosperous economy, West Sussex County Council fully endorses the renewal of the BID for another term and hopes that the majority will vote in favour, allowing the Crawley Growth Programme to continue to deliver for the residents of Crawley and the businesses of Manor Royal.

Cllr Paul Marshall, Leader of West Sussex County Council said: “We are delighted to confirm our support and endorsement for the renewal of the Manor Royal BID. The partnership between West Sussex County Council, the Manor Royal BID and Crawley Borough Council has delivered tremendous benefits to the residents and businesses of Crawley and West Sussex as a whole and we look forward to working with the BID in the long term, further strengthening our partnership and continue delivering growth and opportunities in Crawley.”

Steve Sawyer, Executive Director for the Manor Royal BID said: “We have developed an excellent relationship with the County Council that has delivered tangible improvements for Manor Royal many times over. The list is impressive and includes faster broadband, refurbished pavements, improved public realm, digital screens, transport infrastructure upgrades and support for decarbonising Manor Royal through the creation of a locally owned renewable energy community. I am very grateful to the Leader of the County Council for pledging his support to our new Business Plan and the future of the Manor Royal BID.”

NALC Newsletter

Annual Town Meeting

Planning Applications & Decisions

GATCOM News Bulletin

NALC Newsletter