Press Release: Exciting grant support for micro businesses
Mid Sussex District Council has allocated over £36,000 in grants to help local micro businesses fund projects that will support their growth.
The Council’s Cabinet Grants Panel met on 12 December to consider grant funding applications from micro businesses located right across Mid Sussex. The panel awarded 20 grants that totalled £36,398.
Supported projects included funding for solar lighting, new product development, staff training and development, premises improvements, targeted marketing campaigns and backing for the development of online services.
The Micro Business Grant Scheme boosts the local economy by encouraging sustainable business growth, supporting start-up and micro businesses in the District.
Grants of up to £2,000 were available to Mid Sussex business with less than 10 employees and an idea for a project that will support their business growth. In addition to funding for growth projects, a further £1,500 was also available for any micro business to support the hire of an apprentice.
Councillor Stephen Hillier, Cabinet Member for Economic Growth and Net Zero said:
“We have a wealth of ambitious and creative micro businesses in Mid Sussex, and I’m delighted that we have been able to support their development once again through this grant funding programme.
“By getting behind these growth projects we can help local businesses that are looking to reach new customers, develop new products and services, become more productive, improve their premises and create more jobs.
“This was the final round of Micro business grant funding for this year and takes our total allocation for 2022/23 to over £70,000. I’m excited to follow the progress of these aspiring businesses as they grow, develop, and expand over the next few years.”
We are writing with a reminder about industrial action on the railway, which is due to take place next week.
As you may already be aware, the RMT have given notice of their intention to take industrial action on 3 and 4 January, as well as the 6 and 7 January. In addition, services in Southern region will be affected by the ASLEF strike on 5 January.
Please only travel if absolutely necessary.
On the RMT strike days, only a very limited service (from around 07:30 to 18:30) in Southern region will be running, and many lines will be closed completely, causing severe disruption.
Passengers should be aware that no rail replacement buses will be in operation where train lines are closed. Therefore, we’re asking passengers to only travel if absolutely necessary on these dates, and to pay close attention to the time of their last train home.
There will also be disruption to journeys in the morning of the day after each strike with services starting later than normal, from no earlier than around 07:30. Please note that on these days, we expect the first trains towards London to be extremely busy, and where journeys are absolutely necessary, we’re asking passengers to travel later in the morning to avoid congestion.
Strike action by ASLEF, which represents train drivers, will affect services in Southern region on 5 January. On this day, there will be no Thameslink, Southern, Gatwick Express or Southeastern services, while South Western Railway services will be severely reduced.
Passengers should check before they travel, including for the days after strike action. As short-notice changes to the train service are possible, we recommend passengers check additionally on the day of travel, before setting off on their journey.
As always, please do get in touch if we can be of any further assistance.
Rail travel between 31 December and 8 January
(Sent by Govia Thameslink to Major Stakeholder)
I am writing to update you on the latest information for travel in the first week of January, where regrettably we will be asking passengers to only travel if absolutely necessary. As always, we would welcome your support in sharing this information to encourage customers to plan ahead. This is especially important for students and school children, as a new ASLEF strike means there will now be no service on Thursday 5 January in any location.
Relative to briefings shared before the Christmas break, in addition to RMT strike action on 3, 4, 6 & 7 January which means services will be extremely limited on these days, there are three items of information which may be new to customers:
New Year’s Eve, Saturday 31st December 2022 – a normal Saturday timetable will run with customers asked to check last trains carefully as the last trains on some routes will be before midnight. London Blackfriars station will close near midnight as part of crowd management for the London fireworks.
Thursday 5 January 2023 – Strike action by ASLEF, the train driver’s union is now planned to take place on this date, meaning there will be no Southern, Thameslink, Great Northern or Gatwick Express train service at any location on the network.
Friday 6 January 2023 – As on other RMT strike dates, a limited service running to reduced hours will be in place across the network. However, the last trains at King’s Cross will be earlier than on other RMT strike dates, from 15:30. This is to enable engineering work planned for the 7 & 8 January to still take place.
Journey planners such as on our websites or www.nationalrail.co.uk are updated for all dates between now and 8 January. Early morning services on Sunday 8 January will be updated on 7 January.
A day-by-day guide is available below, and as always, should you have any questions, please let us know.
Wishing you all a safe and happy Christmas – Sussex Police
(Excerpt taken from an email sent by Sussex Police & Crime Commissioner Katy Bourne)
Police and other blue light services continue to suffer assaults with record numbers of incidents despite the maximum prison sentence being increased from six months to two years. An increasing number of defendants are opting for trial in Crown Courts – which is adding to the courts backlog.
Recent research shows that 75% of those prosecuted for assaulting officers are suffering from mental health problems. Police forces across the country spend a huge amount of time dealing with people with mental health issues, when what those individuals really need is medical attention and care.
Some forces have said that they don’t have the resources, time or expertise to be substitute mental health nurses and I can quite understand that.
If we want our police officers preventing and investigating crimes and targeting criminals, we can’t really afford to be the reserve community care service but I’m sure that Sussex officers will continue to operate with compassion and professionalism, whatever the circumstances.
Police resources and funding were the subject of my scrutiny meeting with the Chief Constable last week. The Government’s announcement of extra money for policing is dependant on PCCs making full use of the maximum precept increase. Please do have your say on Sussex Police funding and priorities in my survey.
After such a turbulent year, Christmas comes as a welcome pause for most of us.
For many Sussex Police officers and staff however, there is precious little time to rest and celebrate. There will still be road collisions to attend, domestic abuse and sexual assaults, theft, abuse and violence on our high streets to deal with and fraudsters and organised crime gangs to disrupt.
With many key services involved in industrial action, Sussex Police will be under even more pressure in the coming days and weeks. Please spare a thought for them and their families whilst many of us are gathered round our Christmas trees and dinner tables as they continue to work hard keeping us all safe.
Thank you to everyone at Sussex Police for what you do every day throughout the year.
East Grinstead Town Council staff and councillors would like to express their sympathy to Ian’s wife. Ian sadly passed away of the 10th December after many years of declining health.
Ian represented at both Town and District Councils for a number of years, until ill health set-in around 2011. Ian was the former Town Mayor for the 2007/8 period so is well-known by many in the community.
The funeral is to be at Worth Crematorium Memorial Chapel 1.15pm on 11th January.
Christmas Wishes
Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
The EGTC East Court office will be open next week on 29th and 30th Dec from 9-12 or 9-4pm on the phone. The Tourist info desk in the library will be open on 29th 9-12 and on 30th 9-5pm.
We hope you enjoy your celebrations.
South East Water Update
(Amalgamated from SEW’s update found on their website)
Sussex:
We are continuing to restore supply to all customers in Sussex, and water will be returning throughout the course of today. Our network in Cottage Hill is recharging, and we’re working to remove localised airlocks in the system as quickly as we can.
An unmanned bottled water station is now open in Sussex at: The Cowdray Arms, London Road, Balcombe, Haywards Heath RH17 6QD
Please note this site has limited stock so please only take what you need, thank you.
As supply returns to your community’s taps, the water may appear discoloured or cloudy. This is perfectly normal and can be cleared by simply running the cold tap. Please be mindful that discoloured water can be used for things like flushing toilets.
PR 2486 Young People see Commemorative Designs Brought to Life
(Excerpt taken from Mid Sussex PR 2486)
Local children who helped to design a special woodland seat that commemorates the Platinum Jubilee of Queen Elizabeth II saw the finished bench for the first time earlier this week.
Ten-year-old Charlotte from Lindfield, six-year-old Eliza from Horsted Keynes and 12-year-old Maisie were the winners of Mid Sussex District Council’s ‘Design a woodland seat’ competition and visited Burgess Hill Shed on Tuesday 20 December to see the finished product. They were presented with a commemorative Jubilee coin and a certificate by MSDC Deputy Chairman Councillor Phillip Coote to mark their achievement.
The talented men and women at Burgess Hill Shed used the girl’s winning designs to create a beautiful bench that celebrates the milestone Platinum Jubilee of Queen
Elizabeth II.
The bench features detailed scrolls on the arm rests to symbolise life, honour, and commemoration. National flower emblems of the Daffodil, Shamrock, Thistle, and Rose are displayed on ceramic plaques along the bench to show Queen Elizabeth II’s strong ties with the four UK nations, and the centrepiece is a crown and inscription to mark the Platinum Jubilee.
Stock seasoned timber was used to ensure the woodland seat is durable and the wood has been finished and treated to protect it from the elements.
The Platinum Jubilee bench will now be placed alongside 250 new trees Mid Sussex District Council has planted at Ashenground Woods Nature Reserve in Haywards Heath. The trees form part of The Queen’s Green Canopy, a network of individual trees, avenues, copses and whole woodlands that have been planted by people across the UK in honour of the Queen’s 70 years of service.
Councillor Phillip Coote, Deputy Chairman of Mid Sussex District Council said:
“This is a unique commemoration of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II in this momentous year. It is hugely encouraging to see the ideas of these young people being brought to life in such a beautiful way by these skilled craftsmen at Burgess Hill Shed.”
Eric Palmer of Burgess Hill Shed commented:
“It was a privilege to have been involved in this project, along with our colleagues at The Kiln. Taking inspiration from the ideas of the young people gave us both a challenge and an opportunity to showcase skills in the creation of this one-of-a-kind bench.”
East Grinstead-FP40aEG-Temporary Closure Notice
MSVA Important Links
Please find some important information to share on social media:
Icy conditions in our car parks can cause hazards for our residents:
Planning Applications and Decisions for East Grinstead Parish
GACC Newsletter 135
(Excerpt taken from GACC Newsletter 135)
Dear Members
Apologies if you feel we’ve forgotten you but because the critical news relates to activities behind the scenes rather than in the public eye there hasn’t been a great deal to publish. However, your committee continues to be engaged in consultations, Gatwick committees, noise management, research on climate change impacts and government policy. This newsletter aims to bring you up to date on these subjects.
Gatwick expansion
Gatwick are still intending to submit a formal application (via a Development Consent Order) to the Planning Inspectorate for permission to develop the emergency or northern runway into an active commercial runway that can be used in conjunction with the main runway. They are currently suggesting the application will be submitted at the end of 2023 Q1 – so the end or March, beginning of April.
We need to be geared up to present sound challenges to the proposals that reflect the feelings of our members in the area surrounding Gatwick and in the wider world. Much as noise is a critical problem for many of us, it is likely that the increased carbon emissions associated with the planned growth (together with the questionable economic benefits) will provide the strongest challenge to the plans. Increasing evidence of the impact of climate change is slowly influencing the national view in the right direction but we need to influence our MPs and Ministers.
To achieve a robust challenge we will need to fund support from legal advisers, climate change and noise experts among others and in the New Year we will be starting a fund raising programme.
Noise Management Board (NMB)
GACC joined Gatwick’s NMB at the start of its second term, in January 2020. We did so because we hoped that Board’s new terms of reference and leadership would drive meaningful improvements in the noise environment. Since then we’ve sought to participate constructively and energetically.
The Board’s early progress was affected by the Covid pandemic. However, since it resumed we’ve consistently been disappointed with the pace and scale of its activities. We attribute this to three main factors. First in our view the industry has not contributed to the NMB in the way they committed to. We cannot recall the industry itself bringing forward any meaningful noise reduction initiatives. Secondly community group views are routinely rejected, and we have been excluded from full participation in the delivery of some initiatives. Finally the NMB’s leadership has been excessively willing to tolerate prolonged delay in the delivery of the Board’s work.
As a result we believe the Board is not achieving the vision and purpose agreed, and is no longer effective. We therefore wrote to Stewart Wingate, Gatwick’s CEO, arguing that its term should not be extended until the end of 2023, as presently intended, and that it should instead be wound up now with urgent discussions to see if a more effective set of arrangements can be agreed. Our letter is here. Of the nine groups who participate in the Board, seven have written to Gatwick in similar terms. Apart from an acknowledgement this week we have not received any detailed response.
Departure noise limits
One of the ways Gatwick noise is meant to be managed is through departure noise limits, with associated fines for aircraft that breach the limits. The current limits and fines were set by the Department for Transport in 2001 and have not changed since. It is clear from Gatwick’s own data that the current limits and fines ceased to have any meaningful incentive effect on airlines in about 2005. Between 2015 and 2020, for example, only four fines were levied.
As a result, for some 17 years (and counting) there have been no specific incentives for airlines to reduce departure noise at Gatwick. Both DfT and Gatwick were well aware the regime wasn’t fit for purpose, but did nothing for many years. Gatwick is finally engaging on a replacement regime and GACC has submitted extensive comments, which are here .
Noise Envelope
Government policy requires Gatwick to propose a noise envelope as part of its application to expand the airport by making routine use of its standby runway. The noise envelope is intended to set a limit on aircraft noise at Gatwick and to give effect to government policy, including that the industry must reduce and mitigate noise as airport capacity grows.
Gatwick’s September 2021 consultation contained its initial noise envelope proposals. We commented extensively on these in our response to the consultation, making clear amongst other things that they were inconsistent with CAA guidance and government policy, used an inappropriate metric and inappropriate limits and lacked adequate enforcement arrangements.
Over the summer Gatwick held a series of meetings on its noise envelope proposals, in which GACC took a leading role. Although engagement is welcome in principle, Gatwick’s was inadequate in almost all key respects. Insufficient time was allowed. The process was chaired by a Gatwick employee, not by someone independent. There was no provision for independent advice. Gatwick refused to provide data that only it is capable of providing and which is essential to a proper understanding of noise envelope options. More broadly the airport did not responded substantively to most of the proposals community groups made on policy, metrics and limits. Our noise envelope presentations and our comments on Gatwick’s summary report are here.
We will not know whether the airport has changed it noise envelope proposals until they are published as part of its expansion application next year. But is seems very likely that any changes will be trivial. We will monitor this and be in touch as soon as any further information is available. In the meantime we have asked the airport’s Consultative Committee to make clear to Gatwick that the engagement process the airport has undertaken is not compliant with CAA advice and government policy.
Route 4 Discrepancies
A recent statement from Gatwick made at the Noise and Track Monitoring Advisory Group has raised significant concerns for residents located just to the north of the airport in the area impacted by the Route 3 and Route 4 Departure routes. It would appear that documents and charts published over the past 20 years or so have been incorrect in their display of the Noise Preferential Track that is the centreline of Route 4. Thus residents, old and new, have been misled since at least 1998 as to where aircraft are meant to fly on this route and also what impact they can expect.
Night Flights
Night Flights continue to be a major cause for concern. The level of night flying remains close to 100% of the permitted slots with a significant number of flights classified as ‘unscheduled’. Our concern is the high number of unscheduled night slots and the disproportionate number of night slots used compared to the overall number of flights operating at Gatwick.
In response to concerns raised at NATMAG on the number of night flights, particularly the unscheduled flights the airports response was that Gatwick is designated as a 24hr airport and the night slots used are within the DfT (Department for Transport) limits.
Airspace Modernisation – FASI South Workshops
There have been few developments on airspace modernisation at Gatwick since our last newsletter. However, following pressure from the community groups, Gatwick has engaged with parish councils and provided more workshops.
Gatwick Operations
Gatwick’s performance levels continued to grow and at July had reached 81% of 2019 levels. Gatwick have revised their overall forecasts for 2022 and expect to make a profit to the year end. Short haul flights have now reached 91% of 2019 levels but long haul is running somewhat behind at 60%. However, as many of you will have read, Gatwick is welcoming back some significant players such as British Airways who are increasing their long haul presence. How that will impact the noise environment remains to be seen, particularly as their long haul fleet at Gatwick is primarily older and noisier Boeing B777 aircraft.
National aviation policy
In October the All Party Parliamentary Group on Airport Communities launched an inquiry into the need for a National Aviation Strategy and the policy priorities that might inform any strategy.
Our friends at the Aviation Environment Federation have provided a robust response, which can be viewed here
New Minister
The recent changes in government and its leaders have also brought about changes in the Department for Transport. Government appears to have settled down and this week the Secretary of State for Transport is Mark Harper MP, while Baroness Vere of Norbiton has been appointed as Aviation Minister following a previous stint in the role in 2019.
And finally but not least thank you for your continued support throughout the past year together with our Best Wishes for Christmas and the New Year.
Driving the Message of Dementia Support Throughout West Sussex
(Sent by Carers Support to all major stakeholders within West Sussex)
Fifty community transport minibuses and volunteer cars will be wrapped in Carers Support West Sussex and Alzheimer’s Society branding to highlight support services to those caring for people with dementia across the county.
This initiative was made possible by the West Sussex Joint Dementia Strategy to provide opportunities and services for people to live in inclusive and compassionate communities and to reduce inequalities.
Contact details for the two organisations will also be included on each community transport vehicle.
With rates of dementia in West Sussex set to increase rapidly, Carers Support West Sussex and Alzheimer’s Society have joined forces to raise awareness of the support on offer.
There are currently more than 16,000 people with dementia in West Sussex and this is set to rise to 22,000 by 2030.
The first branded vehicles will set off from Community Transport (CT) Sussex Crawley depot during December 2022. Matt Roberts, CEO of CT Sussex added “we are delighted to work with Cares Support West Sussex and The Alzheimers Society in getting their message of support out to all corners of the county using our vehicles and those of other local voluntary car schemes”
People passing the vehicles will be able to scan a QR code to go directly to West Sussex’s Connect to Supportwebsite, which includes details about accessing a memory assessment.
Carers Support West Sussex has nearly 30,000 carers registered, of which 5,200 carers are supporting someone living with dementia. In the UK, a silent army of 1.8 million friends and relatives save the UK economy £13.9 billion per year.
Sonia Mangan, Carers Support CEO, added “What great partnership work in guiding those living with dementia to the help and support available for them and their carers”
Caring for someone with dementia can put a huge strain on a person’s finances, physical and mental health, whilst straining relationships with other family members. An unpaid carer also needs support, so they can continue enabling their cared for to live well with dementia.
Alzheimer’s Society is a vital source of support and a powerful force for change for everyone affected by dementia. The charity provides help and hope.
Ryan Tyler, Dementia Connect Local Service Manager for Alzheimer’s Society in West Sussex added: “Caring for someone with dementia can be rewarding. It can also be tough and isolating at times but help is available.
“We want everyone affected by dementia in West Sussex to know that whoever you are, whatever you are going through, you can turn to Alzheimer’s Society for practical advice, emotional support, and guidance. That is why increasing visibility of our work locally is so important.
“Life does not end with a diagnosis of dementia and with the right support people can continue to live fulfilling lives. Carers Support Groups allows carers to socialise and share experiences. Often if one person is dealing with a particular situation or challenge, it’s likely someone else has already dealt with it.”
To find out more about Alzheimer’s Society services contact our phoneline on 0333 150 3456.
Update – Gas Network Upgrade – Portland Road Area – East Grinstead
(Sent by SGN to all major stakeholders)
We are writing to give you an update on our project to upgrade our old metal gas mains and services with new plastic pipe in the Portland Road area of East Grinstead. This essential work will ensure your community continues to receive a safe and reliable gas supply.
Following consultation with West Sussex Highways and at the request of residents, our contractor, 360 Group of Companies, have postponed work in Portland Road until after Christmas.
Due to this there will be some adjustments to dates we will be working on the other roads on the project. After Christmas we will return to:
Complete work in Portland Road using two-way traffic lights
Phase 2 – Hermitage Lane. From opposite number 46 to the junction with The Rise. From 23rd January for approximately 8 weeks.
Phase 3 – Ship Street – Entire Road. From 6th March for approximately 10 weeks.
Due to the position of the pipes in the road, and to ensure the safety of everyone around our worksite we will need to manage the traffic as follows:
Phase 2 – We will need to close Hermitage Lane to through traffic. There will be a signed diversion route in place. The existing one-way order will be temporarily lifted to allow access for residents and businesses. Additional signage will be placed to advise and warn drivers that traffic is temporarily two way.
Phase 3 – Traffic will be controlled on Ship Street using temporary lights.
We understand that people can get frustrated by roadworks, and therefore we only use traffic management that we feel is efficient enough to complete these works safely for ourselves and the public.
We’re writing to residents and other local stakeholders to make them aware of our project and explain the details of our work. Please feel free to also share this information with anyone you think may be impacted by our project.
Community Mental Health Transformation Webinar
(Sent by Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust to all West Sussex Town & Parish Councils)
Get involved: community mental health transformation
The community transformation will bring local services across Sussex together, including mental health, partners from social care, primary care, local authority, and voluntary community and social enterprise services (VCSE). The new services will be designed around the needs of the local community and developed in collaboration with the people who will use and work in them.
To keep everyone informed about these exciting developments, we have launched a monthly webinar about the community transformation programme. Open to all, these webinars are a great way to find out the latest news and updates, as well as an opportunity to ask any questions! The next webinar will take place on Wednesday 21 December at 12pm: sign up
There is also a monthly newsletter that you can subscribe to here, or for further details about the community transformation, click here.
Planning Application & Decisions
Mid Sussex Secures £1 Million from Shared Prosperity Fund
(Excerpt Taken From PR 2484)
Mid Sussex District Council has been awarded funding of £1 million from Government to invest in local parks, community hubs and youth employment support over the next three years.
The Government has introduced the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) to enable Councils to support the levelling up agenda at a local level. Funding is being provided to support projects that boost productivity, pay, jobs and living standards, improve public services, empower local leaders and communities, or restore a sense of community and local pride. The UKSPF succeeds the old European Union structural funds.
Mid Sussex has received a UKSPF allocation of £1 million for the next three years and the Government has now approved an Investment Plan submitted by the Council, which sets out measurable outcomes that meet local needs.
The Council is focussing the UKSPF investment on the improvement of local parks and community hubs.
The Investment Plan sets money aside to help Sussex Clubs for Young People utilise a refurbished and expanded pavilion at Barn Cottage Green to grow the community services provided by the Bentswood Community Hub.
Mid Sussex Voluntary Action will receive funding for the community support they provide from The Cherry Tree Centre in Burgess Hill, which includes drop-in support for Ukrainian refugee families and their hosts and digital assistance for vulnerable people to help them access health services, council support, shop online and anything else they might need.
Quarry Café and Community Fridge in East Grinstead will also benefit from the UKSPF allocation, with funding helping them to relocate to new premises and expand their range of community services. The group helps residents in East Grinstead and the surrounding villages by providing a low-cost community café where people can socialise and access support services, as well as a community fridge that turns surplus food into ready meals and shares them with local people in need of a helping hand.
The funding will also support the delivery of the Council’s parks masterplans to improve play facilities, sports provision and accessibility at Mount Noddy in East Grinstead, Victoria Park in Haywards Heath and St John’s Park in Burgess Hill. Grant funding will be provided to support events within the three parks that bring the community together and make best use of the facilities.
There will also be funding to support young people who are not in employment, education, or training (NEET).
Councillor Jonathan Ash-Edwards, Leader of Mid Sussex District Council said:
“The Shared Prosperity Fund will help us to enhance our local area, build on our strengths, and ensure Mid Sussex remains a place we are proud to live and work. Our investment plan focuses on improving our local parks and community hubs because they make such a big difference to our quality of life.
“Public open spaces not only provide us with somewhere beautiful to relax and unwind, but they are also a hub for sports activities and are important places for people to come together and socialise. We’re proposing to invest in one major park in each of our three towns to ensure people right across the District benefit from improved facilities and an enhanced environment.
“Local voluntary groups also make a massive contribution to our local community. We’re so fortunate to have a dedicated and diverse army of volunteers here in Mid Sussex and this funding will help them to continue and expand on the excellent work they are already doing to support those in need.”
The bid was supported in Westminster by Mid Sussex MP Mims Davies, who said:
“I’m absolutely delighted that Mid Sussex will receive £1 million through the new UK Shared Prosperity Fund over the next three years provided by the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities. It reflects the quality of our bid, and that Mid Sussex will be part of this important next stage as we look to level up the country. I look forward to seeing the projects brought forward focused around investment in community hubs, parks and events alongside additional support for young people who are seeking employment. I look forward to seeing the difference it makes to our communities and how this will impact brilliant projects and organisations who deliver great things in our community”.
NALC Newsletter
An open letter to all councillors
NALC’s chair, Cllr Keith Stevens, has penned an open letter to all councillors — read the full letter.
Mid Sussex District Council is reminding residents that rubbish and recycling collection days will change over the Christmas and New Year period.
Collection changes begin on Monday 26 December and end on Saturday 31 December 2022 with rubbish and recycling collections returning to normal from Monday 2 January 2023.
Bin hangers with details of collection changes over the festive period are being hung onto the handle of wheelie bins and flyers are available to download from the Council website. Collection changes have also been published in Mid Sussex Matters (which is sent to all homes in the District) in the run up to Christmas.
There will be no garden waste collections between Monday 26 December and Friday 6 January, the last collection being Friday 23 December. Garden waste collections will return to normal from Monday 9 January 2023.
Householders with a real Christmas tree can recycle it in their garden waste bin if the lid can be closed. Alternatively, there will be temporary sites where residents can drop off real Christmas trees for recycling. These sites will be open between Friday 30 December 2022 and Friday 13 January 2023 (inclusive) and locations can be found at www.midsussex.gov.uk/treerecycling.
For more information about festive rubbish and recycling collections visit www.midsussex.gov.uk/waste-recycling, email wastematters@midsussex.gov.uk or call 01444 477440.
EG Sports Club Update
(Sent by EG Sports Club to all major stakeholders)
The Trustees of East Grinstead Sports Club are pleased to announce the appointment of Acorn Health and Leisure as their new operating partner from January 1st, 2023.
The Acorns team have been running their club, based at the Copthorne Hotel, since 2016 under the management of Michael, Mary, Jane and Carina. Unfortunately, the site was destroyed by a fire in August this year and the entire leadership team is looking forward to coming over to the EGSC site and beginning again.
Gary Needle, Chairman of East Grinstead Sports Club said “On behalf of the Trustees and all the members and visitors of the clubs based at East Grinstead Sports Club, we are delighted to welcome Acorns and look forward to working with them over the coming years. Our purpose as a charity is to provide excellent sport, fitness and recreation facilities for the community in East Grinstead and the neighbouring area. This new partnership with Acorns is a fantastic opportunity to enhance our services and encourage the widest possible range of people to participate in sport and pursue healthy living.”
Michael Hough of Acorns commented “We are delighted to have the opportunity to bring our energy, style of management and operations to East Grinstead Sports Club. We are an experienced team of people who are ready to give our all to the East Grinstead Sports Club site. I believe our experience, of having run the Acorns club for the last 6 years, will provide an excellent environment for all users. I am confident that our energy and enthusiasm will provide a bright future for the members and users of the sports club site, continuing to build on the fantastic work done by others in previous years.”
For information:
East Grinstead Sports Club is a Charity that owns and is responsible for running the 35-acre multi-sport site at Saint Hill Road, East Grinstead, RH19 4JU. Sport has been played there since 1959 and the community sports clubs based on site include CD Phoenix Netball Club, Dunnings Squash and Racketball Club, EG Cricket Club, EG Hockey Club, EG Meads Football Club, Felbridge Badminton Club, EG Lacrosse Club, Saint Hill Table Tennis Club. East Grinstead Sports Club has a large Gym and hosts many events and functions for the local community using its bar and catering facilities.
Acorn Health and Leisure Ltd was set up to take over what was once known as LA Fitness at the Copthorne Hotel with a goal to rebrand and revitalise the club as ‘Acorns’. The directors had a lengthy background in hospitality and their vision was to combine their knowledge and experience with the operational know-how of the existing management of the club. The result took it in the intended direction of becoming a true Club rather than just a facility. Up until the day of the fire Acorns had invested time and money into building the volume of participating members across all of the areas of activity and the Club had become a vibrant centre for the local community where there was a healthy balance between sports and fitness and social bustle in the bar!
Gas Network Upgrade – Portland Road Area – East Grinstead
(Sent to all major stakeholders, however, contact details have been redacted as they are for internal use only)
We are writing to give you an update on our project to upgrade our old metal gas mains and services with new plastic pipe in the Portland Road area of East Grinstead. This essential work will ensure your community continues to receive a safe and reliable gas supply.
Following consultation with Surrey Highways our contractor, 360 Group of Companies, have now started work on Phase 1 of this project in Portland Road using 2- way traffic lights. This work should be completed before Christmas.
After Christmas we will return to work on:
Phase 2 – Hermitage Lane. From opposite number 46 to the junction with The Rise. From 3rd January for approximately 8 weeks.
Phase 3 – Ship Street – Entire Road. From 20th February for approximately 10 weeks.
Due to the position of the pipes in the road, and to ensure the safety of everyone around our worksite we will need to manage the traffic as follows:
Phase 2 – We will need to close Hermitage Lane to through traffic. There will be a signed diversion route in place. The existing one-way order will be temporarily lifted to allow access for residents and businesses. Additional signage will be placed to advise and warn drivers that traffic is temporarily two way.
Phase 3 – Traffic will be controlled on Ship Street using temporary lights.
We understand that people can get frustrated by roadworks, and therefore we only use traffic management that we feel is efficient enough to complete these works safely for ourselves and the public.
We’re writing to residents and other local stakeholders to make them aware of our project and explain the details of our work. Please feel free to also share this information with anyone you think may be impacted by our project.
PCC Katy Bourne’s Survey
The PCC Katy Bourne is really keen to hear your views on police funding and priorities, as laid out on her website here:
It’s only a short survey so will take a couple of minutes to fill in, but your opinion is important.
Southern Water: Stakeholder Update and Cost of Living Support
LCWIP Stakeholder Engagement Session | East Grinstead | Presentation
Latest Edition of QVH News
Planning Applications & Decisions
West Sussex County Council’s Update
West Sussex County Council becomes fourth local authority to be granted lane rental powers
West Sussex County Council has received approval from the Secretary of State for Transport to launch a new scheme aimed at reducing the disruption and congestion from road works in the county.
The West Sussex Lane Rental Scheme (WSLRS), which came into force on 1 December 2022, allows the council to require payment of charges by promoters of street and road works for the time their works occupy the highway network.
This scheme works alongside the West Sussex Permit Scheme and applies to selected roads, not the whole of the county. The focus will be on areas where roadworks will cause the highest levels of disruption, which currently equates to around 10% of the county’s roads. Different charges apply depending on the type of work being undertaken and how disruptive those works will be to the travelling public.
The WSRLS incentivises those who need to carry out works on the county’s road network to become more efficient with how they manage the works when a road or lane closure is needed. The scheme will help to minimise the disruption by encouraging more work to be completed outside of peak periods, highways to be reopened to traffic at the busiest times and by causing a reduction in the length of time works are being completed.
Joy Dennis, Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport said: “I am delighted that we are the third local authority outside of London to have the go ahead for our lane rental scheme, which I expect to lead to fewer delays and queues on our roads.
“The lane rental scheme is focused on the most critical parts of our highway network, with charges applying only at the busiest times. Road works can still occur but will be incentivised to work quickly and efficiently. This means those who need to carry out essential works and supply public services can still do so but will be causing less disruption to our road network.”
The charges applied will promote investment in innovative road work practices and improved traffic signage, improvements in the planning, co-ordination and working methods used to maximise efficiency and completion of work to the required standard first time.
The surplus revenue gained from lane rental fees will be used to further reduce the wider impacts of road works by supporting the industry to develop innovative measures and projects that reduce the disruption and adverse effects to local communities when essential works are undertaken. Funding will also be allocated to extra monitoring and council officer support for those undertaking road works in the county.
(Sent by South East Water to all major stakeholders)
From 00:01 Wednesday 30 November, we’re pleased to say that our temporary hosepipe ban has ended.
Thank you to you and your community’s efforts to save water during the past four months. While the hosepipe (temporary use) ban may not have affected you directly, it’s both you and your community’s efforts that have helped significantly.
The temporary use ban was put in place by the company on 12 August following the driest start to summer since 1976, resulting in record demands for water.
Why has the ban been lifted?
The significant rainfall throughout November has really helped our reservoirs recover from the scorching summer. The ground is now wet enough for water to continue to fill our underground chalk aquifers, and the rain has meant enough surface water is able to run into our rivers and reservoirs.
What is the current water situation?
Despite water levels in both our reservoirs and underground water sources being high enough to lift the hosepipe ban, we need you and your community to continue to be mindful of water use where possible, to help us keep the taps flowing for everyone.
These continued efforts will also help protect the precious local habitats that rely on our rivers and reservoirs too.
Looking ahead to next summer, we do need people to continue to be mindful about how much water they use so all the sources where we draw water from both in the reservoirs and underground can continue to recover.
As well as driving down leaks, we’ve been working with farmers and growers in priority areas to part-fund rainwater harvesting systems and provide expert advice on how to use water wisely on the farm.
We’ve also recently launched our draft Water Resources Management Plan public consultation which sets out how we will provide a reliable and resilient supply of drinking water between 2025 and 2075 while protecting the local environment.
I would be grateful if you could share this information amongst your networks to help spread the word.
Once again, thank you to all our customers and communities for your efforts in saving water over the past few months, and helping us to lift the ban.
David Hinton
Chief Executive Officer
Defib Sessions
Planning Applications and Decisions
Art Society Show
East Grinstead Art Society has an exhibition at AGE UK from the 7th to the 16th of December, open from 10 am till 3 pm daily! Everyone is invited to attend!
WSALC AGM Draft Minutes
A copy of the draft minutes of the WSALC AGM held on Friday 25th November 2022 can be found published on the WSALC website at: https://wsalc.co.uk/annual-general-meeting
Chief executive’s bulletin
Meeting with new local government minister
NALC’s chair, Cllr Keith Stevens, had a positive introductory meeting with the new Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Local Government and Building Safety), Lee Rowley MP, this week to follow up his speech at our recent Empowering Communities conference. The minister’s responsibilities include elections policy and Elections Integrity Programme implementation, Integration Strategy and communities, planning casework and local government policy, finance, improvement, engagement in England. The minister reiterated his commitment to work closely with NALC and the sector and have regular engagement including by officials, and that he wanted to gain a better understanding of the issues we are facing which the department should be addressing. Keith took the opportunity to highlight a range of issues including: the role of local councils in levelling up and addressing big challenges such as the climate and cost of living emergencies; standards, where he urged the minister to reconsider the government response to the Committee on Standards in Public Life report; funding including sector support; urging the minister to publish the response to the call for evidence on remote meetings. Local Council Award Scheme webinar
This week NALC hosted a webinar on the Local Council Award Scheme which was attended by around 100 people. The free webinar covered how the scheme works, the benefits of applying for accreditation, and top tips on how to prepare a good application, followed by a question-and-answer session. You can find more details on the scheme and how to apply on the NALC website here. NALC National Network: Coastal Communities
Our head of policy and communications, Justin Griggs, hosted the latest meeting of the NALC National Network: Coastal Communities on 24 November. We were pleased to be joined by Beccy Lofts from the Local Government Association’s coastal special interest group who provided an update on their work and that of the All-Party Parliamentary Group on coastal communities. It was good to hear that 13 councils at all tiers have now backed the Motion for the Ocean which helps local authorities play their part in realising a clean, healthy and productive ocean and all of the direct economic, health and wellbeing benefits it will bring. The network also agreed to identify priority issues facing coastal areas which we can work with them to promote over the next couple of years. Updated legal guidance
We have updated Legal Topic Note (LTN) 54 on the protection of ownerless common land and village greens. We have added two links in paragraph 8 to government guidance on works to common land. You can find this and our extensive suite of other LTNs in the members’ area of the NALC website in the LTN’s section (login required).
Management Board
Our Management Board met remotely on 22 November and discussed the future of our office at 109 Great Russell Street, how to engage smaller councils in shaping our services, and our programme of events including lobby day and a parliamentary event next Autumn. The Board also agreed to become a White Ribbon accredited organisation – more on that below!
White Ribbon Day
Today is White Ribbon Day, an international day for eradicating violence against women and girls. It’s easy to say we support this day, but it needs to be backed up by actions, which is why I’m delighted NALC’s Management Board approved NALC becoming a White Ribbon Accredited organisation this week. As part of the day, we released a video featuring men from the sector showing their support for White Ribbon Day, as well as this message from our chair, Cllr Keith Stevens. We also published a blog by Cllr Kay Wesley, a White Ribbon Champion for Congleton Town Council, on their journey to becoming accredited. I’d like to encourage councils to explore this themselves. Our health and wellbeing webpage has been updated with a new section on violence against women and girls. I’ll provide further updates on our progress to becoming accredited in due course.
Practitioners Guide technical working group
The multi-stakeholder working group responsible for considering changes to the Practitioners Guide for the financial year 22/23 met this week. It is made up of representatives from NALC, the Society of Local Council Clerks, the Association of Drainage Authorities, and from one of the auditors appointed by Smaller Authorities Audit Appointments. The meeting covered several possible updates and will meet again in the new year to confirm those changes and set a timeframe for the update to the guide.
On the blog: planning applications in a digital planning system
One of local councils’ essential duties is to analyse and comment on planning applications. Tristram Cary from Geoxphere has written for the NALC blog about how this task can be made easier if planning applications are loaded into a digital mapping system and analysed against all the relevant constraints.
NALC response to levelling up funding inquiry
In our response to the Levelling Up, Housing and Communities Committee inquiry into levelling up funding, we have stated that the government must act quickly to give local councils the same access to apply for central government funding, including for levelling up, as principal councils. We also highlighted the weakness of the government’s current system of assessing deprivation which was considered inaccurate and often needed to identify the most deprived communities in many of England’s parished areas.
Out and about
I was pleased to join a panel session at the well-attended in-person Town and Country Planning Association conference on levelling up this week. I spoke about our view that local councils have a vital role to play in levelling up and the promised review of neighbourhood governance by the government should make it easier to set them up across the country. There was much interest in how best to engage communities and the role of neighbourhood planning being recognised, indeed perhaps it could help with local retrofitting strategies to help tackle climate change.
And finally…
With village halls at the heart of so many communities, especially in rural areas, it was good to see BBC Radio Four’s Today programme this week highlight the impact of rising energy costs. According to our Rural Coalition colleagues Action for Communities in Rural England, over half of village halls are reporting financial difficulties, and one in ten may not be able to pay their energy bills and will be forced to close. The story also features Gamlingay Parish Council who helped protect their ‘eco-hub’ through future proofing with renewable energy sources. You can listen again here (21.13 to 25.06) and more information about ACRE’s support for village halls is here.
The East Grinstead Town Council has completed another project as part of the Queens Platinum Jubilee commemorations.
The wrought iron gate which stood at the end of Church Walk and formed part of the kissing gate was removed for safe keeping during 2021 following an unsuccessful attempt to steal the gate by persons unknown.
The Council, aware that the gate had been placed there as part of Queen Elizabeth’s Silver Jubilee commemorations in 1977, were keen to repair and replace the gate during the Platinum Jubilee commemorations of 2022.
The Gate has been restored to working use and replaced at the end of Church Walk. Sadly the Kissing Gate was not within the Councils budget at this time to replace (which went missing some time ago). St Swithuns Historic preservation group have been asked to look at restoring the arch and the railings, and the electricity has already been returned to the light on the archway. Finding a contractor to restore the arch in situ is still causing some difficulty but the preservation group are continuing to seek someone to bring this back to its former glory. Once the works are complete the Council will place a plaque at the site of the gate to recognize the link between the two jubilees that this work signifies.
Cllr Helen Farren, Chairman of the Town Council Amenities and Tourism Committee said “We are really pleased to replace this part of the towns history and delighted that we have been able to do so during 2022 marking the historic jubilee”
Christmas Parking
(Excerpt taken from PR2479)
Mid Sussex District Council is providing all-day town centre parking for £1.50 on each Saturday in December.
The Council is supporting shoppers and traders with discounted parking on Saturdays in the towns of Burgess Hill, East Grinstead and Haywards Heath. The £1.50 parking offer will be available in long stay car parks owned by Mid Sussex District Council.
Parking in Mid Sussex is completely free on Sundays, so that’s a whole weekend of shopping for the same price as a loaf of bread.
The £1.50 all day parking charge will apply on 3 December 2022, 10 December 2022, 17 December 2022 and 24 December 2022. The parking discounts will be available at the following locations:
Cyprus Road (long-stay section) car park – Burgess Hill
Queens Crescent car park – Burgess Hill
Station Road car park – Burgess Hill
The Vicarage car park – East Grinstead
Norton House car park – East Grinstead
Franklynn Road car park – Haywards Heath
Muster Green car park – Haywards Heath
This free weekend of parking in MSDC’s Burgess Hill long stay car parks will help those visiting the town to enjoy MSDC’s festive family activities in the town on Sat 3 December. A town centre marquee will be hosting family entertainment, crafts and fun – all completely free, for more details on these please see www.midsussex.gov.uk/playdays
Short stay car parks in Burgess Hill and East Grinstead were made free after 1pm on the day of the Christmas light switch-on events in the two towns. To coincide with the Christmas Market at the Orchards in Haywards Heath this Saturday, 26 November, parking will be free after 1pm in the following car parks in Haywards Heath:
The Orchards, Haywards Heath
Hazelgrove, Haywards Heath
Haywards East, Haywards Heath
Gower Road, Haywards Heath
Haywards West, Haywards Heath
Councillor Ruth DeMierre, MSDC’s Cabinet for Leisure and Parking said ““We’re reducing our parking charges in the long stay car parks across our three towns to really help families and businesses during the busy festive period. We hope that as many people as possible will come into our towns to make the most of all the Christmas festivities and, of course, support local business”.
The below timetable has been approved by Mid Sussex DC for the exhibition of the Draft District Plan, as there are only 45 homes approved for East Grinstead through this new plan, no exhibition has been arranged for East Grinstead. We will therefore be advertising the Crawley Down event for anyone who wishes to attend.
The full schedule of exhibitions is as follows, all sessions 5pm – 7pm.
The Mid Sussex Applauds Awards 2022 took place on Sunday 20th of November, showcasing the amazing people, groups and organisations in Mid Sussex.
Chairman of Mid Sussex District Council, Councillor Margaret Belsey hosted Mid Sussex Applauds, the community recognition awards, on 20th November at the South of England Showground in Ardingly.
Councillor Belsey commented, “It is always heartening to hear these positive and supportive stories from our community. This lovely event allows us to appreciate and celebrate residents for the amazing activities across our district. Being joined by nominators and sponsors in this positive celebratory event makes it a true celebration.”
The 2022 Awards were made in the following eight categories –
Business in the Community Award (sponsored by ShopAppy) Highly Commended – Cox Skips and Tulleys Farm. Winner – Old Dunnings Mill
Lisa McNamara the Manager at Dunnings Mill has supported Being Neighbourly, a community group in East Grinstead and especially the Tuesday group called Chatter Chat, established for isolated elderly neighbours to meet up for a jolly good chat. There is nothing which is too much trouble for Lisa and her amazing team at Old Dunnings Mill. Her nomination concluded – “She is a STAR!”
Good Sport Award (sponsored by Places Leisure)
Highly Commended – John Kendall (posthumous) of West Hoathly Football Club and Michael Wain of Matt Fiddes Martial Arts. Winner – Ray and Lesley Dennis
Ray and Lesley have been an inspiration to many for decades having devoted many thousands of hours to build Ashurst Wood Junior Football Club to the amazing standard today. From an immense struggle to keep the club going they now have over 200 children playing (ages 5 to 17 years) in many teams – making the club financially sound and achieving England Football accredited status. They have turned the club around through working together and are still married after 50 years! “Without their involvement the club could have easily folded rather than being the immense success it is today.”
Lifetime Achievement Award (sponsored by JobsGoPublic) Highly Commended – Andrew Thurgood (posthumous) and Jon Martin. Winner – Christina Chelmick
Christina is a founder member of Good Neighbours Care. Currently the organisation which relies on finding volunteers has around 150 it can call upon for the needs of over 300 clients across the area. Helping with tasks such as organising transportation for shopping trips, Hospital, GP and Dentist appointments.
Stronger Communities Award (sponsored by CJ Founds Associates) Highly Commended – Burgess Hill Bonfire Society and Sayers Common Community Shop. Winner – Dandylion Style, Ardingly
Dandylion Style have come into the village and very quickly become a focal point for the Ardingly community. They have tackled social exclusion by regularly holding coffee mornings and lunches for the elderly. They put everything on free of charge and they even collect and drop off residents so they can attend. Owner and founder Igor recently brought the whole community together when he hired a van and encouraged residents to fill it with essential items and then he drove it himself across to Ukraine.
Stronger Together Award (sponsored by The Orchards Shopping Centre)
Highly Commended – Lindy Elphick, Lyn (Dizzie) Howes and Eva Sonneveld. Winner – Trevor Carpenter
Over the past 18 months Trevor Carpenter has given a huge amount of time and energy in setting up Lindfield’s Repair Café. Trevor has worked relentlessly to make the Café a success – inspiring volunteers, building skills, linking the community and tackling waste. “I can’t think of anyone who deserves a round of applause more than Trevor.”
Young Volunteer of the Year Award (sponsored by Clarion Futures)
Highly Commended – Kieron Fox and Millie Hill. Joint Winners – Francesca Butler-King and Jessica Divall
Francesca is a committed young member of Woodside Netball Club who attends training and coaches the young children from the ages of 5 to 12. “ Nothing is ever too much for her and anything you ask her to do she does with a smile on her face and with great energy.”
Jessica has been a regular volunteer with sessions run by Albion in the Community as part of the youth club programme. Jess completed over 100 hours of volunteering and attended Young Leader Training. In addition, Jess has become a volunteer with Burgess Hill Little Theatre developing her skills and interest in the technical side of theatre production.
Take Pride in Mid Sussex Award (sponsored by ID Verde)
Highly Commended – Mark Plass, Derek and Brenda Sisson. Joint Winners – John Pierpoint and The Monday Group John has served Balcombe as an un-paid village ranger for decades. He keeps the verges mown and drains unblocked. Mending and tending to our hedges, footpaths, signposts, fences, bus stops and flower beds, he keeps the village clean and tidy and its assets working. “John is a true ambassador for village life, always with a warm greeting, an engaged conversation and an eye out for a task to be done.”
The Monday Group is made up of volunteers who build and maintain stiles and other wooden structures on public rights-of-way across the district and wider afield. In 2021 there have been 227 jobs completed including 73 stile repairs and 33 new stile, 56 clearance jobs and seven gates. Their work helps to open up access to nature and the outdoors, allowing many people who would otherwise struggle to enjoy the exercise and fresh air.
Young Achiever Award (sponsored by HSBC)
Highly Commended – Harri Gander and Kobi Ghasemi. Winner – Jessica Richardson Blunt
Jessica has shown amazing strength and resilience through some major changes in her life. Jessica works with a positive outlook, to the best of her abilities and as a result, she has made excellent academic progress. Jess was a class ‘Student Councillor’ in Key Stage 4 and is now House Captain.
Peer Nominated Award In this category each nominee is given the chance to vote for their favourite in any of the categories. The winner was – The Monday Group who were delighted to have been chosen.
Awards were presented by sponsors and by High Sheriff of West Sussex James Whitmore. Full details of the winners’ stories can be found at www.midsussexapplauds.co.uk
EGBA CHRISTMAS PARTY!
8th December 6-8pm
(Invite sent by the EGBA for all staff and councillors)
The EGBA would like to invite you to join us at our Christmas Party on Thursday, 8th December at the Ship Inn. There will be a buffet to enjoy at a cost of £18 per person and there will of course be a pay bar. You are welcome to bring partners and colleagues.
We hope to see as many of you as possible full of Christmas joy and spirit and look forward to sharing a festive glass or two with you all!
Venue: The Ship Inn, Ship Street, East Grinstead RH19 4EG Time: 6-8pm Admission: £18 per person.
*This is a ticket only event – ticket sales will end at 12 noon on Monday, 5th December. BOOK NOW!
£7.4million worth of road surface improvements completed in just six months at 197 sites countywide
(Email sent by West Sussex County Council to all major stakeholders)
A total of £7.4million worth of road surface improvement schemes were completed at 197 sites countywide in just six months.
From April to October, 138km of road were either completely resurfaced or had surface dressing or micro-asphalt treatments. The three programmes of work comprised:
Thirty-eight resurfacing schemes, totalling approximately 25km in length, were completed across West Sussex, representing a total investment of £3.4million. A warm mix material was used, with approximately 11 per cent less carbon emissions than traditional methods. The new road surfaces are more durable, making them more resilient to potholes, and smoother, too, which lessens road noise.
Micro-asphalt treatment was used at 113 sites, with a total of 44km roads treated and representing a £2million investment. This treatment delays the need to do more significant work which would otherwise cause more disruption for residents and road users. With the existing road surface left in place, reduced working times and no need for disposal of materials, less carbon emissions are produced. A cold-lay material is used in this process, again supporting carbon reduction.
Forty-six sites, totalling 69km of road, received surface dressing treatment, representing an investment of £2million. Surface dressing involves coating the road in bitumen and chippings and utilises the weight of traffic using the road to embed the chippings. It is used as a cost-effective method to prolong the lifespan of suitable roads.
Joy Dennis, Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport, said: “We know how important developing a modern infrastructure is to residents and businesses in West Sussex, which is why there are key targets on road condition in our Council Plan : a £7.4million investment in highway improvements in just six months is testament to the hard work of our highways officers and contractors, and shows our commitment to developing that modern infrastructure.
“Potholes are a big source of frustration for all road users, and in the six months from April this year, approximately 22,000 were filled by our Highways teams and contractor. But we are also taking a holistic approach to the condition of our roads, with whole roads and larger sections completely resurfaced to make them more resilient to potholes, and vastly reduce the need for small-scale, disruptive repairs.
“Micro-asphalt and surface dressing methods have also been deployed on suitable roads as cost-effective ways of improving and prolonging their lifespan.”
Picture montage: clockwise, from top left, ‘after’ photos following resurfacing at: the B2133 Guildford Road, Loxwood, B1267 Spring Gardens, Southwick, A286 North Street, Midhurst, and the A29 Shripney Road in Bognor Regis
Free ice skating and festive family fun in Burgess Hill this Christmas!
(Excerpt taken from PR2480)
Mid Sussex District Council is working with Burgess Hill Town Council to bring free ice skating and a free family fun day to Burgess Hill town centre this Christmas as part of a range of ‘Ho-Ho Holiday Fun’ activities.
On Saturday 3 December a giant marquee will house two sessions of Christmas activities for families @RH15 9NN. From 10am until 12 noon, local firm Scrapless will help everyone get ready for a sustainable Christmas by demonstrating how to make salt dough decorations and The Kiln will be providing craft activities.
There will be the chance to exchange old toys and decorations for something different as part of a Swap Shop and little ones can enjoy story time with Burgess Hill Library or songs and rhymes with Music Bus.
In the afternoon from 1pm until 3pm children will be able to enjoy a round of crazy golf and a puppet show or marvel at the stilt walker and giant bubble maker. Youngsters that want to try some circus skills themselves can join the creative and trained Circus performers at Poi Passion and learn to juggle, hula-hoop, tightrope walk, and balance on stilts. Music and DJ lessons will be provided by DJ Neel and Sussex Clubs for Young people will be providing arts and crafts activities.
A synthetic ice rink will be in the Martlets Shopping Centre from Friday 16 to Sunday 18 December to provide people of all ages and abilities the opportunity to skate for free.
Everything has been taken care of, with a dedicated changing area, ice skates in all sizes to borrow, seating for spectators and trained staff on hand to ensure everyone is safe.
The rink, which is 13 metres square and capable of accommodating up to 45 skaters at a time. The area will be decorated with Christmas lights and Christmas music will play in the background to create a festive atmosphere for everyone visiting the town.
Councillor Stephen Hillier, Cabinet Member for Economic Growth and Net Zero said:
“Christmas is a wonderful time for people to come together and Burgess Hill is a great place to meet up with friends and family this year.
“We want Burgess Hill town centre to be buzzing for our local traders this Christmas so please make sure you pop into town and show them your support while having fun with the family.
“We’ve got a whole host of free activities for local families to enjoy, from ice skating to crazy golf, so there really is something for everyone at our Ho Ho Holidays events this Christmas.”
The programme has been put together by Mid Sussex District Council, supported by Burgess Hill Town Council and New River REIT.
From 23 December 2022 to 1 January 2023 Benson’s Fun Fair will be visiting the site, offering discounted rides in the town centre. In addition, during December MSDC are offering a flat fee of £1.50 to park on Saturdays (Sundays are free) in some of the longstay car parks in Burgess Hill.
Financial support, shop local, win some West Sussex sparkle!
(Email sent by West Sussex County Council to all major stakeholders)
Help with your finances and budgeting
With the government’s Autumn Statement 2022 announced today, budgeting and finances continue to be front and centre in many people’s minds.
We’ve gathered details of where you can access local and national help and support with the cost of living.
The Budget and Finance section includes information about:
Cost of living payments and other support from central government
The Household Support Fund available through our Community Hub
Citizens Advice debt and money advice service
District and Borough council contacts if you are struggling to pay your council tax
Age UK’s free money advice, including maximising your benefits.
Many areas of West Sussex were affected by flooding last night.
Keep one step ahead of the rain by checking out our flooding update pages where you’ll find the latest information on issues across the county.
On these webpages you’ll find details of which areas are affected or likely to be affected by flooding, road closures, and advice on how to take action if you are at risk of flooding.
Covid-19 and flu spread quickly in winter and can cause serious illness.
Vaccinations are our best protection against the viruses and will help keep you, and those around you safe this winter.
Even if you’ve had all your Covid-19 vaccinations or had the virus itself, your immunity decreases over time and the latest booster provides extra protection against newer variants of the virus. It’s important to have your flu vaccine each year as well, to protect yourself against the circulating flu virus.
If you’re aged 50+, in an at-risk group, pregnant, or you’re a health and social care worker, you are eligible for a free flu and Covid-19 booster vaccine this winter.
It’s safe to have both vaccines at the same time, but you need to book them separately.
For more information on how to book click on the link below.
We can all continue to protect ourselves and each other from Covid-19, colds, and flu viruses this winter by taking these simple steps:
Wash hands and follow advice to ‘Catch it, Bin it, Kill it’
Consider wearing a face covering in crowded indoor settings
Give people space where possible
Let in fresh air when appropriate.
You can also have your say on how you think the pandemic should be remembered via the Covid Commemoration consultation. Closing date: 5 December 2022.
Our West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service has relaunched its thought-provoking road safety show for the first time since the pandemic, with a new interactive element.
Safe Drive Stay Alive, a driver awareness programme, returned to Chichester College this week and was delivered to around 3,000 students.
The programme has been shown to thousands of young people across the county since it first launched in 2006.
It brings to life difficult messages to make young people aware of their responsibilities on the road through the personal accounts of emergency services and members of the public, as they recall their first-hand experiences of road traffic collisions.
This week we’ve launched a new Climate Action Hub for residents in West Sussex – an online space to share ideas and views on ways to tackle climate change.
You can get involved by adding suggestions to the Ideas Bankor joining theDiscussion Forum to talk about issues such as electric vehicles, recycling, biodiversity, and food waste.
Not surprisingly, with winter fast approaching and household costs and bills soaring, the most current topic of conversation on the Hub is how households can reduce their energy use.
If you’d like to learn more about what’s happening in West Sussex and how you can help reduce your carbon footprint and live more sustainably, you can also sign up to our monthly Environment & Climate Change eNewsletter.
This year, the Community Safety team are supporting White Ribbon Day on 25 November, which falls on the same week as the start of the men’s World Cup. The day aims to raise awareness of gender inequality and #TheGoal is that we all join together, to end violence against women and girls for good.
Football is not responsible for domestic abuse. However, research shows that when England loses a World Cup game, incidents of domestic abuse increase by 38% and by 28% when they win.
There is no excuse for abuse.
If you, or someone that you know is experiencing domestic abuse WORTH services are able to offer specialist support and advice on 0330 222 8181 Monday to Friday. Talk to us. We can help. In an emergency, call 999.
The Domestic Abuse Act also recognises children as victims of domestic abuse in their own right. If you think a child is being harmed, abused or neglected, then you can report it online to the West Sussex Multi-Agency Safeguarding Hub (MASH).
Follow our @WSxCommsafety Facebook and Twitter pages to learn more about the issues, support services and how you can get involved.
West Sussex is set to be one of a small number of areas in England to benefit from the government’s Create Growth programme.
If you are researching your family tree you can now get free access to the 1921 census in all our libraries and at West Sussex Record Office. You can explore your family history with Ancestry, Findmypast and other resources – which are free to access with your library card.
10 years of making a difference – Sussex Police
(Email sent by Katy Bourne OBE to all major stakeholders)
Hello
Tuesday 15 November marked a decade since I became Sussex’s first Police & Crime Commissioner (PCC). It is a privilege to be the longest serving female PCC and I’m fortunate to have worked alongside so many people who help to make such positive differences to our county.
The role not only means I hold police to account for delivery and ensure public money is spent wisely but I am provided with the opportunity to challenge and change aspects of national policing.
You can watch my 10 year video and read more about some of the achievements and highlights of the past decade on my website. It has been an enormous honour to be the Sussex PCC for the past ten years and I hope to be able to continue for as long as I have the public’s support.
Fittingly, my 100th Performance and Accountability meeting also took place today when we were joined by Deputy Chief Constable McLaren and Assistant Chief Constable Dobinson.
I began by asking for clarity on Sussex Police’s financial position for the remainder of this year and the year ahead and we looked at the challenges the Force faces from inflation, rising fuel and supplier costs and meeting pay awards.
Whilst the Force will balance the budget this year, they face a savings requirement of £17m next year so all budget holders will be expected to look for efficiencies without reducing frontline services.
I made it clear that residents and council taxpayers tell me they want to maintain neighbourhood policing and increased visibility and, given that we have invested in these areas over the past four years, I will be fighting hard for improved funding from government.
We also looked at the performance in the contact centre. DCC McLaren said they had ended the 101 email reporting route to encourage people to use the online webforms which collect more precise information and can be better analysed and actioned.
Welcoming the Minister of State for Crime, Policing & Fire to Sussex
On Wednesday, we welcomed Minister Chris Philp MP to Brighton. I joined Chief Constable Shiner and the Sussex Police leads for serious violence and knife crime to speak to the Minister about the Force’s work in combating knife crime.
With the visit taking place during Op Spectre week – the nationwide intensification on tackling knife crime and highlighting the dangers of carrying a knife – it was a great opportunity to recognise the successes of Sussex’s Violence Reduction Unit (VRU).
Our VRU brings together specialists from police, local government, health, probation services and community organisations to tackle serious violence and the underlying causes of violent crime.
The Minister was shown the Force’s knife crime engagement van, observed a knife sweep alongside the Sussex Community Search Team and met with Sussex’s Night Safety Marshals.
During the last year, there has been a 24% reduction in knife crime in Sussex, compared to a 10% national average and the risk of ‘violence with injury’ continues to remain low.
It is vital we recognise that early intervention and preventative work are fundamental to violence reduction. I am delighted that the funding I have secured from the Home Office has allowed for support programmes to be developed for vulnerable young people and has enabled Sussex’s VRU to be extended for the next three years.
Katy Bourne OBE
Sussex Police & Crime Commissioner
Chief executive’s bulletin
Autumn Statement
The new chancellor of the exchequer, Jeremy Hunt MP, presented his Autumn Statement to Parliament on 17 November 2022, outlining the government’s spending plans by setting budgets for each central government department. The chancellor stated that the government will deliver a plan to tackle the cost-of-living crisis and rebuild the UK economy, with priorities of stability, growth, and public services. Measures of interest to local government include:
Increasing the core referendum limit for principal councils on increases in council tax to 3% and social care to 2%, with further details in the provisional local government finance settlement (PLGFS) in December.
The statement did not refer to council tax referendums for local (parish and town) councils, which is also expected to be set out in the PLGFS.
Additional funding of £2.8 billion for social care.
Raising the national living wage to £10.40 an hour.
A second round of the Levelling Up Fund allocating at least £1.7 billion to priority local infrastructure projects.
A further mayoral devolution deal with Suffolk County Council and advanced discussions on mayoral devolution deals with local authorities in Cornwall, Norfolk, and the Northeast of England.
In NALC’s response to the Autumn Statement, we highlight the role of local councils in communities and their funding, call for the exemption from council tax referendums to continue along with direct access to government funds, devolution must extend beyond mayors to communities and local councils, and the levelling up white paper commitment to review neighbourhood governance should start as a matter of urgency. NALC’s chair, Cllr Keith Stevens, will shortly be meeting with the new local government minister, Lee Rowley MP, where he will be directly pressing these and other issues.
November’s Civility and Respect Project newsletter
The November edition of the Civility and Respect newsletter is out now! There has been significant progress over the last few months. I’m delighted we have made available many new resources specifically developed to address the issues of civility and respect across our sector. The November newsletter includes articles on respectful social media and staying safe online, updates on the legislation workstream and the pledge, new guides on councillors’ responsibilities as employers and recruitment, a new series of podcasts, new model documents including a councillor/officer protocol and roles and responsibilities, and the training workshops.
Book now for NALC’s upcoming online events!
NALC’s regular monthly online events programme continues to be extremely popular, with dynamic, hard-hitting topics up the street of local councils, with most events selling out! NALC has recently confirmed two new online events on ‘Local councils and community outreach’ on 14 December 2022 and ‘Local councils and community engagement’ on 25 January 2023). Join us at the December event to learn more about how local councils can engage in meaningful community outreach and improve local service delivery. And come to the January event to hear how to engage residents, which methods to use, and how to involve people in local council decisions. You can find out more about these events and register your place here.
Fortnightly meeting with county officers
At this week’s meeting between NALC and county officers, we discussed national and county conferences and annual general meetings, their format, and how they work. I am particularly keen for NALC to attend and support as many as possible; I know many of our partners do too, so we are working together on how to do this more effectively. There were also updates on our engagement with the government and forthcoming meeting with the new local government minister, the Levelling Up, Housing and Communities select committee inquiry on levelling up funding, and our review of NALC publications, including advice and guidance.
Improvement and Development Board
I was pleased to chair the latest Improvement and Development Board meeting on 17 November, which brings together colleagues from NALC, the Society of Local Council Clerks (SLCC) and several county associations. The board discussed plans to recruit a new independent chair, proposals for developing an intervention workstream for councils who face severe financial or performance challenges, as well as receiving updates on a range of improvement initiatives such as the Certificate in Local Council Administration, the community governance qualifications, the Local Council Award Scheme, and e-learning.
National Employment Strategy Advisory Group
The second meeting of the National Employment Advisory Group, made up of representatives from NALC, SLCC and county associations, took place on 16 November. The group reviewed plans for an update to the Good Councillors Guide to Employment which will be completed in early 2023, received an update on the development of a template contract of employment for local councils, and the Local Government Association presented a proposal for a sector-wide workforce survey to help inform the development of a new national employment strategy. I am particularly excited about this survey which will be the first in many years that aims to get robust national data on the nature of the workforce employed by local councils – more news to come on that in the new year!
Out and about
Over the last few years, I’ve been pleased to develop NALC’s relationship with the Association of Democratic Services Officers (ADSO) and work with them and other sector bodies on remote meetings. This is why it was great for NALC’s chair, Cllr Keith Stevens, to be invited to attend their annual conference and awards this week as their guest. As well as taking the chance to promote the sector to attendees, Keith also participated in a question time panel session covering issues such as standards, democratic engagement, and training. Do check out ADSO’s Twitter for more highlights from the event. And our head of policy and communications, Justin Griggs, was at the sixth annual power, reputation and influence lecture hosted by NALC’s partner CCLA.
NALC National Network: Coastal Communities
This is a reminder that the next meeting of NALC’s National Network: Coastal Communities will take place on 24 November. You can sign up to join the network here.
And finally…
Congratulations to the latest local councils to be accredited under the Local Council Award Scheme (LCAS). As you know, LCAS celebrates the best of local councils, helps them develop their potential, and recognises that they are well-run and meet the required standards. The latest councils to be accredited are Hungerford Town Council in Berkshire for the Quality Award and Lickey and Blackwell Parish Council in Worcestershire for the Foundation Award. A huge well done to everyone involved. You can find out more about the scheme and how to apply on the NALC website. And we’re also holding a free online event on how to prepare an award-winning application on 23 November. This will provide insights into submitting an award-winning application for each award level and help increase chances of achieving the award level hoped for. The event is open to clerks, councillors and council staff interested in the scheme.
County Local Forums were abolished by West Sussex County Council in October 2022. The County Council encourages residents to contact and engage with their local county councillor directly, using existing channels. To find out who your county councillor is, please see the councillor pages on the Council’s website, which provide a range of published information including each councillor’s contact details, register of interests and some biographical information. In addition, many councillors use social media and can be found on major platforms.
Consultation to Extend our Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) to Tackle Car Cruising
Please see the below link to consultation from MSDC, comments are to go consultation group Cllrs Sweatman, Woodgate, Visser and Mrs Mockford by 10th December if you wish to make any comments, or to the Town Clerk by that date.
MSDC have started a consultation on extending their existing PSPO to tackle the anti-social use of vehicle activity. The current PSPO which covers the wards within Burgess Hill expires in April 2023 and MSDC propose to extend this for a further 3 years. Since the order was put in place there has been a significant reduction in car cruising activity. The Council is also consulting on extending the PSPO area to include the A2300/Jobs Lane which falls just outside the Town and also the Birches Industrial Estate in East Grinstead as there has been car cruising activities in these areas over the past few months.
The consultation will run from 17 November until 22 December and I will be making appropriate recommendations will to the Scrutiny Committee and Council in the New Year. It will be live on our website from 17 November – you can access the consultation, existing order and areas proposed via this link: Consultations – Mid Sussex District Council.
Integrated Care Strategy Briefing for Foundation Trust Governors
The Clerk attended a briefing with the Chair of the Sussex ICB. His presentation gives much more information as to the ICB role and its steps over the next few months. Mr lightfoot has advised he will be engaging with Town and Parish Councils but this will come after the Districts and they have only just started to reach out to them.
There is an exhibition day at Glen Vue on 6th December 10-3 to speak to members of the ICB and to see the highlights of the attached presentation as to consultation and what this means for health care in Sussex. Please attend If you can, when I can secure Mr Lightfoot to attend a Council meeting I shall, however it is not likely to be at the 1st December Public Services meeting, as they have not confirmed this as yet.
Planning Applications and Decisions
Transport Enhanced Partnership Statutory Stakeholder Consultation
(Comments to Cllrs Sweatman / Woodgate / Visser / Mrs Mockford or the Town Clerk by 10th December)
In March 2021, the government published a new National Bus Strategy (Bus Back Better) which sets out its vision to dramatically improve bus services in England, reverse the shift in journeys away from public transport as a result of Covid-19 and encourage passengers back to buses.
Central to the strategy is the creation of Enhanced Partnerships, where local authorities, bus operators and other key stakeholders work together to develop and implement bus service improvements for local communities. The West Sussex Enhanced Partnership will set out how we will deliver the outcomes of our Bus Service Improvement Plan, published in October 2021 following engagement with the public, operators, and other key stakeholders.
Further to this engagement, we would now like to hear from organisations and individual stakeholders who have an interest in making bus services work better.
You can access the consultation questionnaire and supporting documents via the link below.
Many areas of West Sussex were affected by flooding last night.
Keep one step ahead of the rain by checking out our flooding update pages where you’ll find the latest information on issues across the county.
On these webpages you’ll find details of which areas are affected or likely to be affected by flooding, road closures, and advice on how to take action if you are at risk of flooding.
Covid-19 and flu spread quickly in winter and can cause serious illness.
Vaccinations are our best protection against the viruses and will help keep you, and those around you safe this winter.
Even if you’ve had all your Covid-19 vaccinations or had the virus itself, your immunity decreases over time and the latest booster provides extra protection against newer variants of the virus. It’s important to have your flu vaccine each year as well, to protect yourself against the circulating flu virus.
If you’re aged 50+, in an at-risk group, pregnant, or you’re a health and social care worker, you are eligible for a free flu and Covid-19 booster vaccine this winter.
It’s safe to have both vaccines at the same time, but you need to book them separately.
For more information on how to book click on the link below.
We can all continue to protect ourselves and each other from Covid-19, colds, and flu viruses this winter by taking these simple steps:
Wash hands and follow advice to ‘Catch it, Bin it, Kill it’
Consider wearing a face covering in crowded indoor settings
Give people space where possible
Let in fresh air when appropriate.
You can also have your say on how you think the pandemic should be remembered via the Covid Commemoration consultation. Closing date: 5 December 2022.
Our West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service has relaunched its thought-provoking road safety show for the first time since the pandemic, with a new interactive element.
Safe Drive Stay Alive, a driver awareness programme, returned to Chichester College this week and was delivered to around 3,000 students.
The programme has been shown to thousands of young people across the county since it first launched in 2006.
It brings to life difficult messages to make young people aware of their responsibilities on the road through the personal accounts of emergency services and members of the public, as they recall their first-hand experiences of road traffic collisions.
This week we’ve launched a new Climate Action Hub for residents in West Sussex – an online space to share ideas and views on ways to tackle climate change.
You can get involved by adding suggestions to the Ideas Bankor joining theDiscussion Forum to talk about issues such as electric vehicles, recycling, biodiversity, and food waste.
Not surprisingly, with winter fast approaching and household costs and bills soaring, the most current topic of conversation on the Hub is how households can reduce their energy use.
If you’d like to learn more about what’s happening in West Sussex and how you can help reduce your carbon footprint and live more sustainably, you can also sign up to our monthly Environment & Climate Change eNewsletter.
This year, the Community Safety team are supporting White Ribbon Day on 25 November, which falls on the same week as the start of the men’s World Cup. The day aims to raise awareness of gender inequality and #TheGoal is that we all join together, to end violence against women and girls for good.
Football is not responsible for domestic abuse. However, research shows that when England loses a World Cup game, incidents of domestic abuse increase by 38% and by 28% when they win.
There is no excuse for abuse.
If you, or someone that you know is experiencing domestic abuse WORTH services are able to offer specialist support and advice on 0330 222 8181 Monday to Friday. Talk to us. We can help. In an emergency, call 999.
The Domestic Abuse Act also recognises children as victims of domestic abuse in their own right. If you think a child is being harmed, abused or neglected, then you can report it online to the West Sussex Multi-Agency Safeguarding Hub (MASH).
Follow our @WSxCommsafety Facebook and Twitter pages to learn more about the issues, support services and how you can get involved.
Tackling the climate crisis is daunting, especially for councils that may not have access to large budgets, resources or staff — read our latest blog.
Have your say on South East Water’s plans to secure future drinking water supplies in the south east up to 2075
(Comments by 30th January to: Cllrs Sweatman / Woodgate / Visser or Mrs Mockford or to the Town Clerk – Sent to all key stakeholders)
Water is our most precious resource and it’s our responsibility to make sure there’s enough for all life.
We have just launched our draft Water Resources Management Plan public consultation, which sets out how we’ll provide a reliable and resilient supply of drinking water between 2025 and 2075.
Our ability to supply water is under increasing pressure due to a growing population, changing climate and new laws to protect the environment.
We’ve worked hard to create a regional solution which strikes a delicate balance between those pressures, while also protecting and enhancing the environment and adding value to society.
The plan outlines how we intend to invest £2.2 billion during the next 50 years building a range of new infrastructure and a further £2.1 billion reducing leaks and customer water use.
Projects in the plan include:
Leak reduction and water efficiency activities
New pipelines to increase the amount of water that moves between water companies and also within our supply area
A new reservoir at Broad Oak (Kent)
Water recycling between Peacehaven Wastewater Treatment Plan and Arlington
Desalination at Reculver (Kent)
New reservoir in East Sussex – a second reservoir at our preferred location of Arlington or Broyle Place
To find out more, you can view the plan in full detail and submit your views on our dedicated consultation hub.
We are also holding a series of online and in-person events where you can find out more about our draft Water Resources Management Plan.
22 November, 1.30pm to 3pm – webinar
Led by Water Resources South East, this webinar explains how water companies have worked together as a region to develop both a regional water resource plan, but also their individual company plans.
Alongside our colleagues at Southern Water and SES Water, join us to find out more about our plans in the Kent, Sussex and Surrey areas as well as how all our company plans link together.
Come and view the plans and speak to our teams directly at our public exhibitions:
12 January, 13:00 to 19:00 – Berwick Village Hall, Station Road, Polegate, East Sussex, BN26 6TD
17 January, 13:00 to 19:30 – Broad Oak Village Hall, Shalloak Road, Kent, CT2 0QH
24 January, 13:00 to 18.30 – Tyler Hill Memorial Hall Tyler, Hill, Kent, CT2 9NJ
We welcome your views on the draft plan as your comments will be used to shape our final plan.
The consultation closes on 20 February 2023 and during this period we welcome all views on the plan.
A statement of response, taking all feedback into account, will be published in May 2023 ahead of the final plan being published in 2024.
Broad Oak Reservoir (Kent)
On the consultation hub you can also find a link to sign up to be a member of our new Broad Oak Reservoir community panel which will be made up of key stakeholders from across the south east, as well the local community. Members will work with our teams to further develop the plans for the reservoir over the coming years. You can also let us know what amenities you would like to see at the site.
Chief executive’s bulletin
NALC Empowering Communities conference
It was great to hold our Empowering Communities conference at the start of this week on 7 November, albeit impacted by the rail strike (then called off at the last minute!) which resulted in us pivoting from a hybrid event to online only. Thank you to the 200 or so colleagues that joined us comprising councillors, clerks, county association staff, our sponsors BHIB Councils Insurance, Blachere Illumination and CCLA and other supporting organisations, and some media outlets. It really was a packed programme of 18 speakers, covering some really important issues such as building dementia friendly communities, housing, climate change, resilience and civility and respect. Do check out NALC’s Twitter @nalc for highlights throughout the event. And I was particularly pleased the new minister for local government, Lee Rowley MP, gave his first very speech in the role at our event – you can read more here including the full transcript of his speech. The local government magazine LGC also ran a story on his speech which you can read here (login required). It was also good to hear from the shadow local government minister, Alex Norris MP, who was equally full of praise for the sector which does “extraordinary work, day in and day out for your communities. I think that was a real proof of the importance of a hyperlocal model”. I also wanted to share a few highlights from the closing remarks by NALC’s chair, Cllr Keith Stevens, who said:
It was good to hear recognition of the importance of local (parish and town) councils from the minister and shadow minister, but we need to hold their feet to the fire to get the policies we need, from powers to funding to support and more.
He urged more councils to step up to take action on the big issues facing our country to ensure our sector remains relevant and make sure local MPs know about their great work.
He encouraged councils to get involved in the Civility and Respect Project, sign the Pledge, adopt the policies, and go on the training.
Areas with elections next year must redouble efforts to get people to stand, promote the difference local councils can make, in coming weeks put May’s elections on the agenda, ensuring election costs are in the budget and they have a plan to encourage people to stand and make use of NALC’s Make A Change campaign resources.
He never ceases to be amazed by what our councils can achieve, what our sector can achieve, when we work together – councils, clerks and councillors, and NALC, Society of Local Council Clerks (SLCC), county associations and others, including our partners.
NALC’s latest peer challenge takes place at Cirencester Town Council
Last week, I was delighted to participate in the latest joint NALC and Local Government Association two-day peer challenge at Cirencester Town Council. I’d like to thank the town council for inviting us as it was a privilege to hear about their outstanding work. I was part of a review team that looked at what worked well, where the council could do better, how effectively it responded to local needs, and we then fed back thoughts on its future strategy development. We were impressed by the council’s ambition, evident through achieving the Quality Gold Award accreditation in the Local Council Award Scheme, its work on health and well-being, and tackling loneliness and climate change. Other highlights included revitalising the market square to strengthen Cirencester’s position as a market town and securing volunteer support for the local information centre, which received 16,000 visitors by the end of September.
NALC National Network: Young Councillors
The NALC National Network: Young Councillors held their latest online meeting on 9 November. Topics and issues discussed included the White Ribbon campaign and how to get involved in helping NALC support White Ribbon Day on 25 November, continuing to use the WhatsApp group to provide mutual support but also for updates on NALC’s work, how councils were responding to the cost of living crisis and supporting their community such as though grants to local groups and food banks and providing ‘warm rooms, local elections in May 2023 and NALC’s Make A Change campaign, and ideas for future agenda items and speakers.
NALC Policy Committee
NALC’s Policy Committee held an additional, informal meeting on 9 November. Since their last meeting, the Committee had been undertaking more work on a policy motion from the Devon Association of Local Councils on speed limits on single-track roads. They have now agreed to adopt an informal policy on lobbying government to make it mandatory for traffic authorities to consult local councils when amending or maintaining speed limits in their areas. The Committee also had an in depth consideration of the Levelling Up, Housing and Communities Committee inquiry into levelling up funding which NALC will be responding to by 18 November 2022.
Out and abouts
This week Anders Hanson, member services manager, attended the Locality Convention in Sheffield. The event brought together around 400 people from charities and community organisations across the country. The agenda included an opportunity to hear from policymakers, receive training, and listen to inspiring stories from people making a difference in their communities. Locality is currently highlighting the We’re Right Here campaign for a new Community Power Act and the value of ‘co-production’ where service users and community organisations are as much a part of designing and managing local policies and services as councils and government are.
SAAA recruitment for new independent board members
The Smaller Authorities Audit Appointments (SAAA) are recruiting new independent board members. SAAA was set up by NALC to procure external audit for the sector and has to date successfully run two procurement rounds to provide external audit for all local councils which has saved many millions of pounds. This is an exciting opportunity to work on the next phase of the development of SAAA and play a role in the improvement of the capacity and reputation of local councils, drainage boards and other smaller authorities, and influencing the future of audit. And this is around the 80th job advert advertised by NALC this year! You can find out how to advertise your vacancies here.
Kings Coronation Bank Holiday
The Prime Minister has proclaimed an additional bank holiday across the United Kingdom to mark the Coronation of His Majesty King Charles III next year. The bank holiday will fall on Monday 8 May 2023, following the Coronation on Saturday 6 May 2023. In line with the bank holiday to mark Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II’s Coronation in 1953, this will be an opportunity for families and communities across the country to come together to celebrate. I know that many local councils will already be planning events and activities to mark this historic occasion. As the bank holiday falls just after local elections on 4 May affecting around 6,000 local councils, further guidance on the notice periods for first meetings will be provided in December’s legal bulletin for county associations.
Boundary Commission for England final consultation
The Boundary Commission for England has opened a final consultation on proposed new constituency boundaries as part of the 2023 Boundary Review. The commission is required by Parliament to undertake an independent and impartial review of all constituencies in England, to rebalance the number of electors in each constituency. The 2023 Boundary Review also requires that the number of constituencies in England increases from 533 to 543. Residents and communities can respond to the consultation by visiting bcereviews.org.uk by 5 December. You can read more in our news story here.
NALC National Network: Climate emergency
The NALC National Network: Climate emergency met on 27 October, here are a few highlights:
Andrew Maliphant provided an update on a funding for climate action note which had been circulated to the Network containing a potential list of funding sources for local councils; ongoing work to develop funding and good practice templates was also supported.
It was agreed that the WhatsApp group still provides a useful forum for the network to communicate between meetings.
Cllr Ed Gemmell from Hazlemere Parish Council and Scientists Warning Europe will be securing some scientist speakers for the first few network sessions of 2023.
Rural Coalition letter to the prime minister
NALC is a member of the Rural Coalition which has written to the new prime minister, Rishi Sunak MP, to highlight the role that rural communities can play in contributing to the country’s future success. The letter sets out some key actions which are fundamental to enabling real and positive growth and social change in rural England. You can read the letter here.
Thank you for playing your part in marking Remembrance Day today and at the weekend. I know many local councils are involved in ceremonies and memorial services at war memorials, cenotaphs, and churches throughout the country to remember all those who have died in wars around the world.
East Grinstead Town Council Cllrs and Staff are very sad to hear the news of the passing of former Cllr Edward Belsey and our thoughts are with the family.
(Excerpt Taken From MSDC 2474)
Mid Sussex District Council is extremely sorry to announce the very sad passing of Edward Belsey, husband of the Chairman of the Council, Margaret Belsey.
Married to Margaret for 56 years, Edward tragically died on Sunday 6 November 2022 whilst out walking with his beloved springer spaniels near his home in East Grinstead. Our thoughts are with Margaret and his sons Giles and John, Deputy Leader of the District Council.
Born in Beckenham in January 1943 Edward spent a large part of his life working in the community and with voluntary organisations. Since moving to East Grinstead in 1995, he was elected as an East Grinstead Town and Mid Sussex District Councillor for the Herontye Ward in East Grinstead. Whilst on the District Council he was passionate to serve as the representative on the Health and Social Care scrutiny committe[e, a subject he cared so much about. Edward also served as a governor for the Queen Victoria Hospital NHS Trust and was chairman of the East Grinstead Air Training Corps Squadron. He had also been a trustee of Age UK East Grinstead and was one of the town’s first dementia champions. Edward had many interests and was a very keen golfer, fisherman and sports enthusiast, as well as community advocate.
Edward’s family will release funeral details in due course but in the meantime the family and the Council mourn the devastating loss of a very special husband, father, grandfather, and friend to so many in our community.
Planning Applications & Decisions
Revised District Plan Set for Public Consultation
(Excerpt Taken From MSDC 2474)
Mid Sussex District Council has recommended a revised draft of the District Plan for public consultation, to ensure the plan remains up to date, properly plans for infrastructure to be delivered alongside new homes, and protects the district from speculative, unplanned development.
Public consultation on the revised draft District Plan will run for a period of six-weeks from 7 November to 19 December 2022.
Housing targets are set for local authorities by the Government and District Plans must set out in broad terms what, where, when and how development should take place. Although Mid Sussex District Council has an adopted District Plan for Mid Sussex which runs from 2018-2031, the Government requires that the plan is updated every five years to ensure that housing need is met, and policies remain relevant and effective.
The Government’s Standard Method for calculating future housing need sets Mid Sussex a minimum requirement of delivering a further 8,169 new homes from 2021-2039.
The revised draft District Plan sets out a strategy for how to meet the housing requirement. The starting point is to protect all designated landscapes, such as the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), from all but limited development.
The Council is seeking to ensure that all opportunities to use brownfield sites are maximised and that any application for development makes the most effective use of land. This approach will help to reduce the number of greenfield sites required to meet the housing target. However, as a predominantly rural district (less than 12% is within a defined built-up area) opportunities for brownfield development are limited.
The revised draft District Plan is guided by the ’20-minute neighbourhoods’ principle, which ensures new developments are provided in areas where most people’s daily needs can be met within a short walk or cycle ride. In line with this principle, sites within the district’s three towns and larger villages, which are sustainable locations that already provide a range of services and facilities nearby, have been proposed for development.
In areas with few or no local services or facilities, there is still opportunity for growth if developments are sufficiently large enough to provide new supporting infrastructure on site such as a new primary school, health facilities, neighbourhood centres, small scale retail, employment opportunities, open space, and sports provision. Providing such facilities will create more sustainable developments that benefit both new residents and the existing community.
The revised draft District Plan includes three new sustainable developments at Crabbet Park, Copthorne, Land to the West of Burgess Hill and Land to the South of Reeds Lane, Sayers Common, which will collectively provide 4,750 new homes. The remaining housing need will be met by 21 smaller housing development sites across Mid Sussex, and an allowance for housing built on brownfield sites and windfall.
Councillor Robert Salisbury, Mid Sussex District Council Cabinet Member for Planning said:
“As our population grows, so does the demand for new housing, and the Government has a set formula for calculating exactly how many new homes are required to meet that growing need.
“Without a District Plan to provide a clear vision for the future, control passes to private housing developers, potentially leading to speculative and unwanted development in unsuitable locations.
“By having an up-to-date District Plan, we can set out where those new homes should go and include Planning Policies that ensure developers create sustainable communities with access to essential services and facilities like new schools, healthcare provision, community halls and leisure facilities. It provides certainty for communities, stakeholders, and infrastructure providers.”
The revised draft District Plan is available to view online at www.midsussex.gov.uk/districtplan and paper copies are available at libraries, Help Points, the District Council offices, and Town and Parish Council offices.
Comments can be submitted online at www.midsussex.gov.uk/districtplan or can be sent to Planning Policy and Housing Enabling, Mid Sussex District Council at Oaklands, Oaklands Road, Haywards Heath, West Sussex, RH161SS.
Declaring Your Interests!
All councillors are required to provide a record of their interests in a public register of interests. This must be completed within 28 days of taking office, and any changes must be recorded within 28 days of that change.
You need to register your interests so that the general public, authority staff and fellow councillors, know which of your interests might give rise to a conflict of interest. This is a public document and aims to ensure that decision-making is seen to be open and honest.
This helps to preserve public confidence in the integrity of local government. You need to register a range of connections which includes membership of local authority bodies, membership of any body exercising functions of a public nature, political party or trade union, your job or any business contracts between the Authority and yourself any land or property in the Authority’s area.
If the form is not clear to you, please consult the Monitoring Officer or appropriate Town/Parish Clerk.
Mid Sussex District Council Set Net Zero Targets
(Excerpt Taken From MSDC 2473)
Mid Sussex District Council has adopted Net Zero targets for both the Council and the wider District to help tackle climate change and reduce global warming.
At a meeting of Full Council on 2 November 2022, Councillors overwhelmingly agreed to reduce direct council-controlled carbon emissions to Net Zero by 2040 and support the wider District to reach the national Government target of Net Zero by 2050.
Net Zero is achieved by striking a balance between the greenhouse gases emitted into the atmosphere and the greenhouse gases removed from the atmosphere.
Mid Sussex District Council has already begun to reduce carbon emissions by installing PV solar panels on Council buildings that generate around 27,000 kwh of pollution-free electricity per year, a carbon reduction of 6.9 tonnes.
In September the Council started to trial a new recycling and general waste collection system that includes the separate collection of food waste to boost recycling and reduce the amount of general waste produced. Recycled food waste is turned into bio-fertiliser that helps crops to grow and renewable electricity that provides a sustainable source of power. Just one lorry load of food waste can generate enough renewable energy to power 20,000 televisions for an hour.
The Council is supporting sustainable methods of travel for employees by enabling them to access to Electric Vehicle Charging Points at the Council offices, borrow electric bikes for short journeys and upgrading the Council’s parking enforcement fleet to electric vehicles.
Over 50 new Electric Vehicle Charging Points have been installed across Mid Sussex as part of the new West Sussex ChargePoint network. These are just the start of a much bigger rollout that will see thousands more EV Chargers connected across West Sussex over the next 10 years.
West Sussex local authorities are progressing a joint programme to support businesses to lower their carbon footprint. A key part of the programme is the delivery of a ‘Low Carbon Business’ video series, telling the story of exemplary businesses from across the county who have embraced sustainability to realise tangible business benefits. Businesses from across sectors and representing each District and Borough feature in the series, hosted on the West Sussex County Council YouTube channel.
For Burgess Hill, the District Council has secured £20 million of funding for sustainable transport initiatives, that will be delivered through the Place and Connectivity Programme. In the past year, over 3,500 metres of footways, cycle paths and bridleways have been enhanced to provide safe and reliable alternatives to using the car.
The Council has also worked alongside a consortium of local authorities to secure funding from the Government to improve the energy efficiency of eligible homes through the Warmer Homes scheme.
Councillor Stephen Hillier, Cabinet Member for Economic Growth and Net Zero said:
“At Mid Sussex we are eager to support the UK government in the journey to Net Zero and the fight against climate change.
“Renowned sustainability and Net Zero consultancy firm Ricardo AEA has carried out detailed analysis of the Council and the wider Mid Sussex area to ensure our Net Zero targets are realistic and based on sound evidence.
“As a Council we are committed to reducing carbon emissions in our area and these Net Zero targets are an important part of our Sustainable Economy Strategy, which sets out how we’re working to make sure Mid Sussex remains an attractive, resilient and innovative District that balances social wellbeing, environmental protection and sustainable economic growth.”
Final consultation on revised proposals now open: Last chance to help reshape constituencies
(Excerpt Taken From MSDC 2476)
The Boundary Commission for England has published new revised proposals for parliamentary constituencies across the country and has opened a final month-long consultation, giving the public one last opportunity to send in their views.
The Commission has taken into consideration over 45,000 comments sent in by the public during the previous two stages of public consultation and has changed nearly half of its initial proposals based on this feedback. A third and final consultation on the new map of revised constituency proposals is open now until 5 December. The public are invited to view and comment on the new map at www.bcereviews.org.uk.
The Commission is undertaking an independent review of all constituencies in England as requested by Parliament. The number of electors within each constituency currently varies widely due to population changes since the last boundary review. The 2023 Boundary Review will rebalance the number of electors each MP represents, resulting in significant change to the existing constituency map. As part of the review, the number of constituencies in England will increase from 533 to 543.
After this final consultation has closed on 5 December, the Commission will analyse the responses and form its final recommendations. These will be submitted to Parliament by 1 July 2023.
Tim Bowden, Secretary to the Boundary Commission for England, said:
“Today we are announcing the publication of our revised proposals. Last year we published our initial proposals for new constituency boundaries – our first go at what the map should look like. We are delighted with the huge number of comments from members of the public on our initial proposals, many which included valuable evidence about local communities.
“Today’s publication is the culmination of months of analysis, and we have revised nearly half of our initial proposals based on what people have told us. We now believe we are close to the best map of constituencies that can be achieved under the rules we are working to.
“However, we still want people to tell us what they think of this latest map before we submit our final recommendations to Parliament next year. This is our final consultation and I encourage you to participate in the 2023 Boundary Review.”
Cost of Living – Website / Free and low cost events
Dear stakeholder,The Gatwick Station Project is moving towards completion in summer 2023 and will hit a key milestone by fully reopening all platforms at the station in early 2023.
Work is continuing on the new lift shafts and esclators on Platforms 5 and 6 ready for when they reopen in the New Year. In the station entrance, WiFi is now available and the new wayfinding is taking shape.
Take a look at the latest timeplase video showing progress on the external works.
You can find out more about the project and how it is improving the passenger journey on the Network Rail website.
More improvements at the station entrance
The station entrance
The South Terminal link span has now been cladded to create a welcoming corridor between the station and the airport. Additional wayfinding has been fitted within the area to make it easier for passengers to see where they need to go.
New flooring has been laid in a phased approach in the entire area. Around 90% of all flooring is now complete in the existing station estate, a total of 200 m² which is around 5,500 tiles.
With a combined focus on the passenger experience and great collaboration between the Gatwick station project team, GTR and Gatwick Airport, Gatwick Airport’s public WiFi has now been extended into the station entrance. This will provide passengers with seamless connectivity as they move between the airport and station concourse and will allow them to benefit from unlimited browsing when travelling.
In the image above, the new customer information screens can be seen on the left and to the right is the golden cladded wall where the ticket vending machines are now located.
On concourse to completion
The new lift shafts on the new airport entrance concourse deck
The most visible part of the redeveloped station will be the new station concourse, sitting boldly above platforms 4 -7 with its curved steel roof. Construction is progressing well, with the steelwork for the four lift shafts and the first pairs of truss-supporting columns now in place.
New station staff building opens soon
The new station staff building
As part of the planned works to create more space for passengers, the station staff building was demolished and a new building has been built. The new building will open later this month.
The new building has a number of design efficiencies that support sustainability and decarbonisation. These include using low carbon concrete, being well insulated, having a good amount of natural light, using LED bulbs which consume significantly less energy than alternatives and installing a hybrid heating and cooling system which will provide energy efficiencies and cost savings.
British companies have been used wherever possible to provide the materials for the building including partition walls from British Gypsum, steel gauze from Titan, ceilings from SAS International and raised access flooring from Kingspan.
The new station control room will be located in the building. There will be a period of dual running with the existing control room to ensure a seamless transition of all systems.
Reducing our carbon footprint
Plant machinery being used on site at Gatwick
One of the ways the carbon footprint of the project is being lowered is by using biofuel (which is nontoxic and biodegradable and is produced by combining alcohol with vegetable oil, animal fat or recycled cooking grease) to run the plant vehicles used on site.
Excavators and dumpers use approximately 1,000 litres of biofuel a month – reducing the CO2 emission by almost 80%.
Retired civil engineers visit
Retired ICE members having a site tour
On Friday 21 October, 11 retired ICE (Institution of Civil Engineers) members visited the Gatwick station project.
They saw the almost completed staff accommodation building, the improvements that have been made in the station entrance and the construction that’s progressing on the new Airport Entrance concourse deck and much more! Their feedback was really positive, and they especially enjoyed going behind the hoarding to see behind the scenes.
Mid Sussex District residents are asked to check if they are eligible to receive a new grant to help them heat their homes, lower their carbon emissions, and save money on their fuel bills.
In partnership with other Councils Mid Sussex District Council has secured funding from the Government to improve the energy efficiency of eligible homes. Warmer Homes funding is available until March 2023, to install the following energy efficiency measures:
Insulation
solar PV panels
air source heat pumps
Up to £25,000 is available per home if you meet the following criteria:
Your home has an EPC rating of E, F or G (limited funding is available for EPC D rated properties).
And either:
You have a total household annual income of £30,000 or less (before housing costs/bills)
This funding is available to owner occupiers and those living in privately rented homes on a first-come, first served basis and it only takes 5 minutes to make an application.
Councillor Norman Webster, Mid Sussex District Council Cabinet Member for Community said:
“With energy bills almost tripling in just one year, our residents are already being affected by the growing cost of living crisis, and the colder winter months are fast approaching.
“This Warmer Homes Programme can offer vital energy efficiency improvements for those on low incomes. The range of measures available can help people to stay warmer, reduce their energy use and therefore lower bills whilst also making their homes greener by cutting carbon emissions.”
Councillor Jonathan Ash-Edwards, Leader of Mid Sussex District Council, said:
“The Council is delighted to have successfully secured this funding to help support many of our residents during this challenging time. I would encourage as many local people as possible to check if they are eligible, either by visiting the Warmer Homes website or calling the freephone number provided and reap the benefits of this scheme without delay.“
Alternatively, call 0800 038 5737 (freephone) Monday – Friday during office hours to find out more and apply by phone.
Gatwick Airport FASI-S Parish Council Stakeholder Briefing Sessions December 2022
(Received by FASI-S Project Team at Gatwick Airport)
In October 2018, following the publication of the Government and CAA co-sponsored Airspace Modernisation Strategy, Gatwick Airport Limited initiated a project to redesign its departure and arrival routes and procedures under the auspices of the Future Airspace Strategy Implementation – South (FASI-S) Airspace Change programme.
The development of this airspace change project is following the CAA’s CAP 1616 Airspace Change Process and has consequently up to this point focused engagement with a targeted group of stakeholders. These included local government (some parish, borough, district and county councils) as well as key local environmental and community noise action groups.
The stakeholders already involved have been engaged throughout the airspace change process so far, contributing both to the Define Stage (Stage 1) and the current Develop and Assess Stage (Stage 2).
While the regulatory process does not require wider engagement at this stage we are expanding the range of stakeholders involved to include a broader range of parish council representation at the point the airspace design options being created are more mature and a meaningful shortlist of viable options is available to help simplify the process and make the potential impact clearer to the local communities, and you their representatives.
This process is under way now, with the anticipated final engagement, detailing the outcomes of ‘Design Principle Evaluation’ and progress of ‘Initial Options Appraisal’, being planned for January 2023. We should be clear that this is still relatively early in the process and well ahead of a full public consultation that will take place much later in Stage 3 but the sessions we have planned should help you to be as well informed as possible, which we believe will be helpful to you given the relatively complex nature of the process and the project itself.
We invited 75 of our nearest parish councils to two Parish Council Stakeholder briefing sessions on 5th and 6th October, where we explained the progress of this airspace change to date and updated on the Comprehensive List of Options we have developed as well as provided an overview of the Design Principle Evaluation and Initial Options Appraisal processes, so that you, the parish council stakeholders, could join and participate in the upcoming engagement sessions that we plan to schedule early next year.
In order to reach as many of you as possible we have decided to hold two further briefings. The planned agenda and content in these sessions will be the same as the October sessions.
The briefings will be conducted as a virtual meetings using the Microsoft Teams application. Two virtual meetings are planned for:
17:30 to 19:30 on 5th December
10:30 to 12:30 on 9th December
Please email LGWairspace.FASIS@gatwickairport.com to confirm your intention to participate in one of the two virtual meetings by 30 November. The link to join the online briefing will be circulated the day prior to the meeting to all registered attendees.
Mid Sussex District Council has thanked the residents taking part in a new food waste collection trial after they recycled more than 29,000 Kilograms (29 Tonnes) of food in the first four weeks.
Residents in the trial areas have embraced the new collection system by placing any food waste they have into a dedicated food waste bin, which is collected from the kerbside every week.
The aim of the trial is to work with residents to boost recycling and reduce the amount of general waste produced. If participants continue to recycle food at the current rate, then potentially over 377,000 Kilograms (377 Tonnes) of food will be removed the rubbish in the trial area and recycled over the course of a year.
Mid Sussex residents in parts of Ashurst Wood, Burgess Hill and Lindfield have been selected to take part in the new waste collection trial. These areas have been chosen because they include a mix of housing types and locations that ensure the trial is representative of the whole of Mid Sussex. The trial will enable Mid Sussex District Council and West Sussex County Council to assess the feasibility of rolling out a similar service across the whole of Mid Sussex.
Councillor John Belsey, Deputy Leader of Mid Sussex District Council said:
“I want to say a huge thank you to everyone who is working with us to trial this new collection system and reduce the amount of food that goes in our general waste bins.
“By collecting our food waste separately we can ensure it is being put to good use. Once collected, it’s taken to a specialist facility and placed in an anaerobic digester, which uses the gas that is produced when the food breaks down to generate energy and turns the left-over material into a soil fertiliser.
“A lorry load of food waste can generate enough renewable energy to power 20,000 televisions for an hour, so recycling it really can make a big difference to our long-term sustainability.
Councillor Deborah Urquhart, West Sussex County Council Cabinet Member for Environment and Climate Change said:
“Residents have done a tremendous job of recycling their food waste so far and I would like to thank each and every one of them sincerely for their efforts.
“We’ve already received lots of valuable feedback from residents and we will continue to take it all on board as the trial progresses. Your experiences will help us to provide a greener service in the future, with improved recycling rates.”
Building Connections
The Building Connections project aims to support young people age 16-25 in to opportunities, it will do this by supporting with things like C.V writing, short courses to pad the C.V, interview skills, volunteer work experience and mentoring. Please do share the flyers with any of your contacts that are working with young people age 16-25.
Meridian Line Newsletter
Monday 3rd October was a special day – our 23rd annual Charity Golf Day, at Sweetwoods Park Golf Club. 18 teams entered and we were fortunate to have good weather. The day started with players being served a bacon roll with coffee or tea and after the game we all enjoyed a delicious 2-course buffet lunch. For the first time ever we had a Shot Gun start – each team goes to their allocated starting hole and all teams start playing at 9:15am.
Chief organiser was Roger Lewis, who said afterwards “I had a great team of supporters, including my wife Dianne who ran the Registration Desk. Barry Byrne organised 4-person Green Fee vouchers from 12 golf clubs for the Silent Auction; this raised over £1,000. He also arranged the balls for the Yellow Ball competition which ran alongside the main Stableford competition. Keith Harding, in charge of the Raffle, did a great job, assisted by Gill Frost, raising £595. Judith Riches sold £425 of £5 Mulligan vouchers. The £10 note draw raised £250, with 50% going to the winner. Bob Shaw was a great help, checking the scores as players returned with their completed score cards. Brian Riches was a huge help setting up the banners from sponsors RH & RW Clutton, Beaufort Financial and the Caravan & Motorhome Club and taking photos of the players around the course. Phil Baker and President Michael Haynes provided great assistance during the day in the club house”.
The day raised £3,000+ for charity: donations of £500 each have been given to the QVH Superheroes Fund for children with severe burns and the Rotary Fund to help Ukraine. The remaining £2,000, now in our Charity account, will enable us to assist groups and individuals throughout the year as needs arise. All in all, a very good result!
On 5th October the four young participants in our 2022 Rotary District Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA) scheme came along to tell us about their experiences. Aged 15 – 16, two are at Imberhorne school and two at Sackville. RYLA is a 5-day residential leadership course held at High Ashurst Outdoor Activity Centre near Dorking. The aims are to develop young people’s self-esteem and confidence and improve their social and leadership skills. The activities include an assault course, orienteering, all day map reading walk, problem solving, aqua sports, raft building challenge – and more!
All four participants, Holly, Liam, Sienna and Brody shared their experiences with a PowerPoint presentation and said they gained self-assurance working in teams with those they had never met before. They all agreed Rotary had given them a unique opportunity to improve their confidence.
The planned talk on 19th, about the UK charity ‘Tools with a Mission’, had to be postponed as the speaker was unwell.
“Grow the Tallest Sunflower” competition – results
We launched this free competition for children at the May Fayre. Each young entrant received a packet of Sunflower seeds, pots and growing instructions. The competition was generously sponsored by Orchard Nursery and King’s seeds. On Sunday 16th October the winners gathered, with their families, at Orchard Nursery, and were each presented with a prize and Meridian Rotary certificate. The tallest sunflower was an amazing 9’ 11” (3.58 m)!
What are we doing in November?
Our meetings (7.30 p.m. at The Dorset Arms, EG) will feature:-
Wed 2nd November Jacquie Thomas from St Catherine’s Hospice will tell us about progress on the new Hospice, under construction in Pease Pottage. and the enhanced facilities it will provide. If you’d like to find out more, log onto our website https://www.rotary-ribi.org/clubs/homepage.php?ClubID=1561 scroll down to ‘This week’s meeting’ on right and click on ‘Details’.
Wed 16th November Business meeting (members and Associate members only)
Wed 30thNovember A talk about Chailey Heritage School, near Lewis. This specialist school provides education and care services for children and young people with complex neuro-disabilities.
Guests are very welcome – if you’d like to come along, please e-mail us at info@meridianrotary.co.uk
On Tuesday 15th November teams from local senior schools will compete in our annual competition “Rotary Youth Speaks – a Debate”. Each team has three members:- Chairperson, Proposer and Opposer, who debate a topic of their choice, in front of an audience (mostly teachers, parents and Rotarians, but all are welcome). An independent questioner then ‘quizzes’ them on their arguments. The winners are selected by independent judges, and go on to the next heat of this national Rotary competition. The venue is St Swithun’s Church, start time 6 p.m.
Further details about us and our activities are on our website www.meridianrotary.co.uk
Chief executive’s bulletin
The latest meeting between chairs of NALC and SLCC
The latest meeting between the chair of the National Association of Local Councils (NALC), Cllr Keith Stevens, and the chair of the Society of Local Council Clerks (SLCC), Steven Trice, took place on 21 October. They agreed to sign a protocol at the SLCC’s forthcoming conference and a commitment to promote this partnership and deliver on key projects, including a new workforce strategy and continuing the Civility and Respect Project into 2023. You can read more in our news story.
Civility and Respect Pledge hits 500
I’m pleased that over 500 local councils have signed up for the Civility and Respect Pledge since it was launched just three months ago. While the Pledge is voluntary, it provides an essential way for local councils to make a public statement about standing up to poor behaviour across our sector and stating upfront how they will handle poor behaviour if it happens. Suppose your local council hasn’t yet signed the Pledge. In that case, there’s a video featuring representatives from SLCC and NALC explaining the Pledge and its importance in demonstrating the positive actions which support civil and respectful conduct. The video can be shared with attendees before the meeting where the pledge is to be discussed to help explain why the pledge is so important. You can find out more details, watch the video and sign up for the Pledge on the Civility and Respect Project webpage.
The GMB Union have announced the results of its Green Book pay consultation, where its members voted to accept the employers’ final offer by 67% to 33%. However, the entire Trade Union Side is not due to meet until 1 November to discuss their respective consultations’ results and decide whether to formally accept the employers’ offer. Therefore, employers should not implement the pay offer until the National Joint Council pay circular, which constitutes a formal collective agreement, has been issued. The national employers are fully aware of payroll cut-off dates as Christmas approaches, so they will endeavour to distribute the circular as soon as possible after 1 November if most of the unions accept the employers’ offer. NALC will also be issuing guidance, including updated pay scales and an updated template annual leave policy.
NALC Annual General Meeting 2022
It was good to see over a hundred colleagues from county associations at this week’s annual general meeting (AGM), which we again held online. In advance of the draft minutes being available, here’s a summary:
Introducing the annual report – which you can read along with the rest of the AGM papers here – NALC’s chair, Cllr Keith Stevens, spoke about progress on his three priorities set out in his January 2022 open letter and thanked his vice chairs, county associations and NALC staff for their support through the last year.
In my short speech, I extended my thanks to everyone involved in NALC’s governance, county associations, staff, partner organisations and local councils, also highlighting the extensive engagement throughout the year enabled by online meetings and events and how councils were doing brilliant things for their communities demonstrating their relevance every day.
The audited accounts and three year-budget were noted, and the affiliation fee for 2023/24 of 7.71 pence per elector, capped at £1,978 for larger councils, was agreed upon.
The AGM passed a motion from theNorthamptonshire County Association of Local Councils that the workforce challenge is one of the biggest challenges of our time and that there is an issue with recruitment, retention, and capacity in local councils, and NALC engages a consultant to benchmark clerks’ terms and conditions.
The current president and vice presidents were appointed by the AGM in 2021 and will continue in post until the AGM in 2023.
Updated legal guidance
We have updated Legal Topic Note (LTN) 5E on parish council meetings in England to give guidance in paragraph 42 on remote public participation at council meetings. You can find this and our extensive suite of other LTNs in the members’ area of the NALC website in the LTN’s section (login required). This month’s regular legal bulletin for county officers covered qualifying conditions to become a councillor, local councils and church property, power to make a grant to a company, and annual meeting dates for local councils with elections in 2023.
NALC online event on communication strategies
I was pleased to join over 150 attendees at this week’s hugely popular online event on communication strategies. A huge thank you to our brilliant speakers Daniel Purchese from NALC’s partner Breakthrough Communications, Cllr John Harvey from Buckingham Town Council, and Alix Macfarlane from LGcomms for sharing their top tips, insights, and knowledge on everything from having a clear vision to building positive relations with the media, from recognizing communications expertise to engaging with residents. And impressive feedback from attendees so far, with 100% stating the event met their expectations ‘fully’ or ‘somewhat’, and 100% would recommend NALC’s online events to others! So do join us at our upcoming online events on the Local Council Award Scheme, community outreach and our Empowering Communities conference.
NALC’s response to the government review of net-zero
In our response to the Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) independent review of net zero, we have highlighted the role local councils could play in decarbonisation, urging the government to recognise the role local councils can play to help the government meet its net-zero targets and not just factor in the private sector. You can read more, including our full response to the consultation, in our news story here.
Working with Cabinet Office on .gov.uk domains
I am pleased that NALC is working with the domain management team in the Cabinet Office, which aims to ensure that every council, no matter its size, has a .gov.uk domain. There are many benefits that come with getting a .gov.uk domain name. For example, a .gov.uk website gives residents confidence they are interacting with a legitimate site, emails from a .gov.uk address are more trustworthy, and it can help reduce the risk of cyber-attack. If your local council already has a .gov.uk domain, then the team is keen to understand your experiences. So please look out for their emails fromsupport@domains.gov.uk asking you to sign up for their free protection services (Detectify Surface Monitoring and Registry Lock) and participate in pilot projects they will run.
New prime minister and cabinet
Rishi Sunak MP, who was a keynote speaker at our annual conference and has been featured in NALC publications, was appointed as the new prime minister this week. In his first speech as prime minister outside Number 10 on 25 October 2022, he recommitted to the Conservatives 2019 manifesto, which includes levelling up. In his cabinetreshuffle, Michael Gove MP has replaced Simon Clarke MP as secretary of state for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities. Keith has already extended his congratulations to the newprime minister and secretary of state and writing to them in more detail.
White Ribbon Day on 25 November
On 25 November, we will be supporting White Ribbon Day, a day to work towards ending violence against women and girls. We are making a short video to show male support, and we are keen for as many men as possible from the sector to help us out – more information can be found here.
Out and about
Keith was at the well-attended Cheshire Association of Local Councils AGM on 27 October, where he presented NALC’s work with county associations to support and promote local councils. You can watch the video of the event here. Gary Barker, solicitor, gave an update on a range of legal issues and the Civility and Respect Project at the Oxfordshire Association of Local Council larger councils’ meeting on 26 October, which was attended by clerks and councillors from the majority of the county’s 14 larger councils.
And finally…
Dealing with the cost-of-living crisis is the hot topic on the NALC blog this week. Cllr Sharon Taylor OBE, chair of the Co-operative Councils’ Innovation Network, provides an example of how councils are at the forefront of the cost-of-living crisis. And Martin Buttle from NALC’s partner CCLA, covers some thought-provoking figures from the Living Wage Foundation, why it is important to address the cost-of-living crisis, and upcoming research on steps employers are taking to address this challenge.
