Ideal Summer Escape

 

We are trialling mid-week polls: our first is about Social Housing. Historically CDC has relied heavily on private development but only one social/affordable home per 3 or 4 private ones is built, and most of our District is in the SDNP reducing the land available. Added to that, our largest income is derived from tourism and agriculture, so relying solely on this model of delivery may no longer be wise, which is why we are asking your views.

Voter ID is still in the news. Last week we told you that in Chichester South, represented by our Green colleagues, 2 people were turned away and did not return while a further two did. In both Sidlesham & Selsey North and Selsey South 1 person was turned away in each ward and neither returned. Across our District, 119 people were turned away and did not return, while a further 70 did. Nationally thousands were turned away and did not return - which does not include those turned away by 'greeters' who never got to ask for a ballot.

Food hygiene is a big concern if you eat ever out. This week the Argus has shared some, including a few in Chichester and others across our County.

You can also search for local establishments here. 

This week saw World Bee Day: many overgrown verges and roundabouts across our District are cut in the interests of road users’ safety, but others are left uncut to establish wildflower growth to aid our diminishing bee and insect population, and also help moles and other small mammals. Which Council looks after which stretch of grass can be unclear, but the closer to the highway the more likely it is to be WSCC. So if you have a concern try reporting it here.

June is Gypsy, Roma, and Traveller History Month and with the help of the charity Friends, Family and Travellers, WSCC will be creating a podcast exploring tradition, culture, and the personal experiences of a local traveller family.

If you pass Priory Park in Chichester you might see volunteer archaeologists at work until June 6. Appropriately, Volunteers’ Week starts on Thursday which is a time to celebrate the contribution of local volunteers and an opportunity to spread awareness about the hugely positive effect volunteering has on those who are offering their time for free. Learn more here.

You may be interested to learn which six Sussex beaches ChatGPT has chosen. 

The Telegraph has called Selsey "the UK’s ideal summer escape."  As STC later explained, "Selsey Town Council were approached by journalist Norman Miller from The Telegraph, who wished to write an article about Selsey. The Council's Community and Business Development Manager put together an itinerary for Mr. Miller as well as making a number of business suggestions. The Council would like to thank all of the businesses chosen who took the time to showcased some of what Selsey has to offer."

Donna posted this week,"This is a link to a survey from the Office of our Police Commissioner, Katy Bourne. As some may recall, I contacted Ms Bourne in March regarding the lack of PCSOs and Officers in our area. I am progressing this, but it would be helpful if as many people as possible took part in this short survey. Thank you."

Val meanwhile has written a special mention, "Mick and I had the pleasure of attending the under 8's football team presentation at Selsey Football Club. I cannot believe it is a year since we were last there. What is great afternoon we had, seeing all the proud Mums and Dad's and of course the families. We were there for our grandson Kieran-Jack and to support the brilliant work which is done for the youth of Selsey. The hard work and hours of time by the team who run the under 8's and the guys in the background do a magnificent job. There are 2 under 8 teams who are managed by John Sinton with assistant coaches Steve Weller and Sammie Harvey along with manager Robbie Twyford and assistant Adam Weller. I raise my hat to them all. With other teams which range from 6 to 18 years Selsey Football Club give a great service to our wonderful Town. Keep up the good work and be very proud of yourselves thank you."

We have a follow-up on World IBD day. Donna and I have someone close to us who is a sufferer. Every 22 minutes someone in the UK is diagnosed with Crohn’s Disease or Ulcerative Colitis. #GetYourBellyOut is a patient led, not-for-profit organisation providing support, education and advocacy to a global community of over 45,000 people.

Going briefly back to The Telegraph, they have apparently listed three Sussex villages, including Bosham, amongst their greatest in the UK. 

As it is Half Term, to close we should mention that we are rapidly approaching 500 days since the start of the war in Ukraine and WSCC are appealing for a new cohort of hosts to open their doors to Ukrainian refugees. 

Finally: - 

• CDC’s app

• Local Wellbeing

• Suicide in Sussex

• Help for businesses

• Help for households

• Warmer Homes help site

• CDC Meetings

• WSCC

As always, from the whole Team, stay safe.

Tim