An interesting article about the recent March for Manhood appeared in The Guardian this week - it reminded us of how much more widespread awareness of these concerns has become since our election in 2019. The final paragraph needs some clarification because Councils are given a housing target and to quote the Planning Advisory Service, 'must leave no stone unturned' in their quest to reach that target. The 'numbers' therefore, are driven by Government figures, not by CDC, so it helps to have Councillors who will argue the uniqueness of the situation our District faces in terms of land supply.

We are pleased to let you know that our first newsletter for a while is with our printers - we felt it ill-advised to put literature through doors with the pandemic uncertainty, but are confident to do so with the better months ahead, and will see where things are in the Autumn. 

This week’s links about local places and activities include two from Plum’s Guide: ideas for things to do and ideas for places to visit; meanwhile, Ladies What Travel have their own suggestions on things to do in our area. 

Petworth House is a great place to visit. We are members of the National Trust, so I know it well and am pleased to share this visitor's impressions with you. We also like Uppark, and (not National Trust but nearer to home and Donna has green fingers) West Dean Gardens. 

Something else you might enjoy are these places in Sussex whose names people struggle to pronounce.

CDC has a new webpage “Managing Water Quality and Wastewater” on their website. As well as defining roles of organisations involved in managing our water quality and wastewater, there is also a helpful section containing Frequently Asked Questions. Their Housing Standards team are supporting landlords (and tenants) to improve their properties and they can fine those who don’t take steps to do so. If you own a rental property there is information and advice on improving energy efficiency, including details about grants you may be eligible for. There is also the Chichester Warm Homes Initiative for residents on low income living in a property with poor energy efficiency - it could contribute towards the installation of an efficient heating system, as well as loft and wall insulation.

This coming week there are no public WSCC or CDC meetings, but use the links below because March at CDC is quite manic, with Planning for Donna and Corporate Governance & Audit and Overview & Scrutiny for me. There are also two Full Councils including a Budgetary Special, at which final Council Tax precepts will be decided. WSCC have added £45+ to their part of Band D Council Tax bills so check what your Parish/Town/City Council have added: our Team on STC have ensured a more modest increase of £8.84 a year to the precept, despite the big rise in energy prices, and whilst maintaining funding for the Mobile Waste Recycling Service, and front of house services - to save residents travelling.

Finally: -

• The South Downs Dark Skies Festival is coming up. 

• The BBC NHS postcode tracker.

• TheCovid impact on our area's economy.

• CDC’s Calendar of Meetings, and WSCC's. 

As always, from the whole Team, stay safe.

Tim