The 'Feathered Bench' created by Sussex Artist
Christian Funnell, and commissioned by Cuckfield Parish Council, has been installed
under the Cedar tree at the cemetery.
We are still waiting for the final piece, an inscription stone, which will take 12 weeks to be completed.
In the meantime we are planning a
short ceremony for June to mark this special place.
Please visit and take time
to sit and reflect within this tranquil setting.
Online Safety Message - MOMO
Advice — 7th February 2019
Please see the attached online safety guide aimed at parents.
It is about a very disturbing online phenomenon called MoMo. It is a game/piece of software that not only challenges children to do risky and dangerous things, it also can hack other software and send graphic, disturbing and violent images. It is also said to send messages to children not to tell their parents or that themselves or their parents will come to harm if they do tell.
Please be aware that this software has been said to infiltrate even innocent websites, such as Peppa Pig - therefore it can target younger children.
WEST SUSSEX COUNTY COUNCIL TEMPORARY TRAFFIC REGULATION: BOLNEY ROAD, ANSTY
Roadworks — 7th February 2019
NOTICE IS hereby given that in pursuance of the provisions of Section 14(2) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act, 1984, as amended, the use of (and parking on) Bolney Road, Ansty from junction with Stairbridge Lane to junction with Pickwell Lane is temporarily prohibited from 07/03/19 at 19:00 until 08/03/19 at 06:00.
The restriction will be in place Night-time only between 19:00 – 06:00.
This closure is necessary to allow Balfour Beatty to undertake carriageway specialist surfacing.
Emergency vehicle and Residential access will be maintained at all times.
The alternative route for traffic will be signed via (A272, A23, Dumbrells Farm Way, Jane Murray Way, Sussex Way, London Road, Isaacs Lane, Tylers Green, A272, Cuckfield Road and vice versa.
This restriction will be effective for a maximum of 5 days from the start date given above.
Any queries about the effect of the closure on traffic using the highway please contact West Sussex County Council on 01243 642105.
Any queries about the works please contact Balfour Beatty on 01243 642105
Dated 22 February 2019
A helping hand from South East Water
Advice — 7th February 2019
We offer a range of services to help customers during their time of need, from assistance with paying their water bill to water related emergencies.
Our dedicated Customer Care team can offer expert advice to customers and also manage our Priority Services register which gives customers access to a range of other support services.
Attached is a briefing for you to keep on file which provides details of what we offer and how to contact us if you feel someone in your community could benefit.
Alternatively you can click here to go straight to our Customer Care webpage.
Help us to help you
Water emergencies don’t happen very often, but when they do, we want to ensure you and your community are as prepared as possible.
To ensure we provide you with the information you want and need and in the way you’d like to receive it, please complete our short survey here.
Get tapped into The Source
Make sure you don't miss out on the latest news and updates from South East Water, by signing up to our stakeholder e-newsletter, The Source.
Don't worry, we won't fill your inbox - just send you the occasional updates. You can unsubscribe at any time.
Mid Sussex District Council held a free Clothes Swapping and Textiles Event at St Richards Church Hall in Haywards Heath on the 20 February. It was open to all Mid Sussex residents to attend, as part of the West Sussex Waste Partnership ‘Tackling Textiles’ campaign. Residents were able to bring up to 10 items of good quality un-wanted clothing or accessories per person and exchange them for new items. There were 598 donations in total, which equates to 175.85 kilos of textiles potentially saved from household waste bins.
The event provided advice on sustainable fashion, with ideas and information on how to re-use, repair and upcycle unwanted textiles and clothes rather than throwing them away. Residents were also able to talk with West Sussex waste prevention advisors about what can or can’t be recycled.
The West Sussex waste prevention advisors ran practical workshops and demonstrations to share ideas on how old textiles can be reused or upcycled. Sussex Crafts and Mid Sussex District Council ran textile craft activities for children, such as making sock puppets from old solo socks and making little bears or rabbits from re-using old close knit jumpers. Refreshments, tea and cake were served in the church hall run by St Richards Church.
Councillor Gary Marsh Cabinet Member for Service Delivery said:
“Last year people in Mid Sussex threw nearly 405 tonnes of textiles in with the general rubbish, the majority of which could have been repaired, reused or recycled.
“Swapping clothes with others is a great way to freshen up your wardrobe, protect the environment, save money and have a lot of fun. Our free swishing event enabled local people to exchange unwanted items of clothing for something different and I’m delighted so many people embraced the idea.
“We couldn’t have run this swishing event without the support of other local organisations. I would like to thank Cllr Ellis for her help co-ordinating the event and the West Sussex waste prevention volunteers for their fantastic textile demonstrations. Thanks to Fat Face for lending us some clothes rails, Roman for donating clothes hangers, Diann Johnson, Girl guiding Commissioner for Perrymount District and Isobel Price of 3rd Haywards Heath ranger unit for help sorting clothes.
“I must also mention everyone at St Richards Church, who were such gracious hosts, Haywards Heath Town Council for their wonderful clothing donations and helping us to move all the clothes and the British Heart Foundation for recycling and reusing all the clothes that didn’t find a new home.”
New powers to help tackle Anti-Social Behaviour
MSDC Press Release — 7th February 2019
Mid Sussex District Council has adopted new powers to help combat
anti-social behaviour issues in the District.
The
Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014 gives local authorities the right
to issue Public Space Protection Orders (PSPO) and Community Protection Notices.
The powers provide additional tools to challenge persistent and unreasonable
behaviour that is having a detrimental impact on the community.
Mid Sussex District Council approved the use of Public Space Protection Orders
and Community Protection Notices as a tool to limit anti-social behaviour at a
meeting of Cabinet on Monday 11 February.
A Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) is an enforceable bylaw that can be used
to restrict certain anti-social behaviours within a specific area. PSPO powers
could be used in Mid Sussex to tackle car cruising and anti-social vehicle use
or anti-social and nuisance behaviour by children and young people, which has
been increasing across the District.
The
specific terms of each order are agreed with the local community via public
consultation before they are introduced. Once PSPO restrictions are in place,
any breach of the Order is immediately criminal in nature and could lead to a
fine via a Fixed Penalty Notice, confiscation of relevant items or a
prosecution with custodial sentence.
Community Protection Notices (CPNs) are designed to have a broad use and focus
on how victims and communities are affected by Anti-Social behaviour. A notice
can be served on any individual or organisation that is persistently having a
detrimental effect on the quality of life of people nearby.
When using CPN powers the first step is to issue a Community Protection
Warning, which sets out conditions that must be met and usually lasts for a
period of 12 months. If the conditions set out in the Warning are not adhered
to a Community Protection Notice can be issued, which carries criminal
sanctions if breached.
The powers are designed to tackle low level anti-social behaviour which, while
it may not be criminal, still causes significant concern for residents,
businesses and visitors to Mid Sussex. They will be agreed and enforced jointly
by the Council, Sussex Police and other relevant agencies.
Councillor Norman Webster, Cabinet Member for Community said:
“Community Protection Notices have been introduced successfully in other parts
of the country and are a useful tool because they provide an opportunity to
modify behaviour before it escalates into criminality. The warning stage allows
for signposting to professional support and encourages a positive change in
behaviour.
“The Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act powers are in addition to all
existing legislation and will provide greater flexibility in addressing persistent
Anti-Social Behaviour. These powers obviously won’t be able to resolve all
crime and anti-social behaviour in Mid Sussex but they will help the Council to
work with partner organisations in tackling the most persistent, unreasonable
and impactful anti-social behaviour.”
Tenancy Deposit Scheme Alert
Advice — 7th February 2019
Action Fraud have received several reports where fraudsters are claiming to be landlords of properties offered for rent online. Prior to a viewing the suspect requests that the individuals pay a deposit and sometimes a month’s rent upfront, claiming that this money will be put into the Tenancy Deposit Scheme, and is therefore protected under government legislation.
After the individual pays the money, the suspect sends a bogus email purporting to be from the Tenancy Deposit Scheme confirming they have received their deposit. However, this is not the case as the money was sent directly to an account associated with the suspect and the victim is left out of pocket and without the home they had thought to be putting a deposit on.
What You Need To Do
Always make sure you, or a reliable contact, has viewed the property with an agent or landlord before agreeing to rent a property.
Don’t be rushed or pressured into making a decision. Only transfer funds when you’re satisfied a genuine property, safety certificates and valid contract are in place.
Only pay for goods or service by bank transfer if you know and trust the person. Payments via bank transfer offer you no protection if you become a victim of fraud.
Once you’ve paid your deposit, you can check whether it’s protected by entering your tenancy deposit certificate code on TDS website (www.tenancydepositscheme.com).
Residents needed for Independent Panel
MSDC Press Release — 7th February 2019
Mid Sussex District Council is inviting local residents to apply for vacancies on the panel which reviews Councillors’ Allowances.
The Council is looking for someone with excellent communication skills to join the independent panel to review Councillor's Allowances. The panel advises the Council on the level and type of allowances to be paid to Councillors.
The Panel consists of three members of the public and the appointment is for a four-year term. There are currently three vacancies as the current term has concluded.
The appointment is a voluntary role, although a small allowance is paid. Meetings of the Panel can be held in the evenings or during office hours to suit the convenience of the Panel. The Panel will normally meet on around 5 occasions between July and December but may be asked for a view at other times of the year if new matters arise.
Previous committee experience would be an advantage.
Elected members of any local authority, people with a political affiliation and officers of Mid Sussex District Council are not eligible for these appointments.
For further information and details of how to apply, please see the website at www.midsussex.gov.uk/allowancespanel. The closing date for applications is Friday 22 February 2019 and interviews will take place w/c 4 March.
Upcoming Roadworks
Roadworks — 7th February 2019
The following works are scheduled on the M23, subject to weather conditions:
Monday 25 February There will be a full closure of junction 9 (Gatwick) exit slip road Northbound between 10pm and 4am. There will be a fully signed diversion route to Gatwick Airport via junction 10, A2011, A23 London Road, Airport Way.
Tuesday 26 February South and Northbound full carriageway closure between 10pm and 4am on the M23. This closure is to construct 1 super span and 1 gantry. Both sides of the M23 will be closed between junction 8 (M25) to J10 (Crawley). Diversion for M25 via A264 Copthorne Rd, A22 and re-join at J6. M25 diversion for Gatwick from junction 10 - A2011, A23 London Road, Airport Way.
Wednesday 27 February for 3 nights There will be a full closure of junction 9 (Gatwick) exit slip road Southbound between 10pm and 4am. Diversion to junction 10 and back northbound on the M23.
Brighton Main Line Improvement Project Network Rail are carrying out major engineering works on the Brighton Main Line from 16 to 24 February, plus several weekends, closing the line between Three Bridges and Brighton and Three Bridges to Lewes. These are essential works as part of their railway improvement plan.
No direct trains will run between Three Bridges and Brighton and Three Bridges to Lewes. 2 trains per hour will run from Brighton to London Victoria via Littlehampton with extended journey times. Replacement buses will also run.
WEST SUSSEX COUNTY COUNCIL TEMPORARY TRAFFIC REGULATION: MYTTEN CLOSE, CUCKFIELD
Roadworks — 7th February 2019
NOTICE IS hereby given that in pursuance of the provisions of Section 14(2) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act, 1984, as amended, the use of (and parking on) Mytten Close, Cuckfield from junction with Broad Street to end of road is temporarily prohibited from 04/03/19 at 08:00 until 06/03/19 at 18:00.
The restriction will be in place day-time only between 08:00 – 18:00.
This closure is necessary to allow Balfour Beatty on behalf of West Sussex County Council to undertake carriageway resurfacing.
Emergency vehicle, Residential and Pedestrian access will be maintained at all times. No Diversion Route applicable.
This restriction will be effective for a maximum of 5 days from the start date given above.
Any queries about the effect of the closure on traffic using the highway please contact West Sussex County Council on 01243 642105.
Any queries about the works please contact West Sussex County Council on 01243 642105.
WEST SUSSEX COUNTY COUNCIL TEMPORARY TRAFFIC REGULATION - STAPLEFIELD ROAD, HANDCROSS ROAD, CUCKFIELD ROAD & WHITEMANS GREEN, HANDCROSS
Roadworks — 7th February 2019
NOTICE IS hereby given that in pursuance of the provisions of Section 14(2) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act, 1984, as amended, the use of (and parking on) Staplefield Road, Handcross Road, Cuckfield Road and Whitemans Green, Handcross from junction with Horsham Road to junction with Brock End is temporarily prohibited from 26/02/19 at 09:30 until 28/02/19 at 16:00.
The restriction will be in place day-time only between 09:30 – 16:00. This closure is necessary to allow Balfour Beatty on behalf of West Sussex County Council to undertake carriageway pre surface dressing patching under rolling road closures.
Emergency vehicle, Residential and Pedestrian access will be maintained at all times The alternative route for traffic will be signed via Handcross High Street, High Beeches Lane, Balcombe High Street, London Road, Brook Street and vice versa.
This restriction will be effective for a maximum of 5 days from the start date given above.
Any queries about the effect of the closure on traffic using the highway please contact West Sussex County Council on 01243 642105 Any queries about the works please contact West Sussex County Council on 01243 642105.
Dated 07 February 2019
WEST SUSSEX COUNTY COUNCIL TEMPORARY TRAFFIC REGULATION : LEYTON LEA, CUCKFIELD
Roadworks — 7th February 2019
NOTICE IS hereby given that in pursuance of the provisions of Section 14(2) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act, 1984, as amended, the use of (and parking on) Leyton Lea, Cuckfield from junction with High Street to end of road is temporarily prohibited from 05/03/19 at 08:00 until 07/03/19 at 18:00.
The restriction will be in place day-time only between 08:00 – 18:00.
This closure is necessary to allow Balfour Beatty on behalf of West Sussex County Council to undertake carriageway resurfacing.
Emergency vehicle, Residential and Pedestrian access will be maintained at all times. No Diversion Route applicable.
This restriction will be effective for a maximum of 5 days from the start date given above.
Any queries about the effect of the closure on traffic using the highway please contact West Sussex County Council on 01243 642105.
Any queries about the works please contact West Sussex County Council on 01243 642105.
Weekly Police News 12th February 2019
Sussex Police — 7th February 2019
Your Weekly News From Mid Sussex Police 12 Feb
Witnesses sought to serious injury, single vehicle crash near Hassocks
We're trying to find out what happened after a car left the road and overturned, seriously injuring the driver, on the B2112 New Road at Clayton, south of Hassocks, in the early hours of Saturday (9 February).
The casualty was a 55-year-old man from Portslade-by-Sea. His black Suzuki sports utility vehicle had been travelling towards the A273 Brighton Road when the crash happened, leaving him with multiple injuries.
The Kent, Surrey and Sussex air ambulance attended, but he was taken by road to the Royal Sussex County Hospital, Brighton, where he is currently being treated.
There were no other casualties. The crash happened shortly before 1am. Local road closures were put in place until 7am while the incident was being dealt with.
Anyone who saw what happened, who may have dash-cam footage or other relevant information is asked to contact police online or by phoning 101, quoting Operation Ross.
Burgess Hill sees a drop in anti-social behaviour following robust police response
Burgess Hill town centre has seen a considerable reduction in incidents of anti-social behaviour following robust action by local prevention officers and partner agencies.
Officers and PCSOs have conducted high visibility patrols in the town centre and St John’s Park area, directly interacting with anyone committing ASB and removing them from the area. By working closely with the local community and those directly affected, the Prevention team have been able to issue acceptable behavioural contracts to nine perpetrators banning them from the town centre areas.
As a result, the incidents of ASB in Burgess Hill have dropped considerably in these areas. The team of police officers and PCSOs will continue to maintain high visibility patrols in the area and will pursue any others who step out of line. To see a video and to read more click here.
Detectives investigate East Grinstead clothing shop robbery
Police are investigating a robbery in High Street, East Grinstead, which happened shortly after 2.30pm on Monday (4 February).
Two men entered Broadley’s clothing shop, threatened staff and are believed to have stolen items of clothing. A staff member present received a minor injury.
One suspect was a black man, wearing a black hat and black anorak, who made off on a bicycle. The other suspect, a white man, who was wearing a tan-coloured parka-style jacket, escaped on foot. A woman is also believed to have been involved.
Anyone who saw what happened or who may have any other relevant information is asked to contact police online or by phoning 101, quoting serial 619 of 04/02.
Alternatively there is the option of contacting the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously, either online or by phoning 0800 555 111.
A 21-year-old man and a 33-year-old woman, both of no fixed address, and a 40-year-old man from Crawley have all been arrested on suspicion of robbery and currently remain in police custody while enquiries continue.
Don't be 'romanced' into becoming a fraud victim - £2.5million lost in Sussex last year
Sussex Police are supporting a national Action Fraud warning to the public to spot the signs of romance fraud ahead of Valentine’s Day.
Reports made to Action Fraud reveal that nationally a staggering £50,766,602 was lost to romance fraud in 2018 – an average of £11,145 per victim and a 27% increase on the previous year.
In Sussex during 2018, 157 victims lost a total of £2,561,906, with an average loss of £16,318 - sadly 127 out of 157 attempts succeeded. 61% live of victims alone and their average age is 65. Click here for more.
WEST SUSSEX COUNTY COUNCIL TEMPORARY TRAFFIC REGULATION - BROXMEAD LANE, CUCKFIELD
Roadworks — 7th February 2019
NOTICE IS hereby given that in pursuance of the provisions of Section 14(2) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act, 1984, as amended, the use of (and parking on) Broxmead Lane, Cuckfield from junction with Pickwell Lane to junction with Slough Green Lane is temporarily prohibited from 28/02/19 at 08:00 until 01/03/19 at 18:00.
The restriction will be in place day-time only between 08:00 – 18:00.
This closure is necessary to allow Balfour Beatty on behalf of West Sussex County Council to undertake carriageway pre surface dressing patching.
Emergency vehicle, Residential and Pedestrian access will be maintained at all times The alternative route for traffic will be signed via Pickwell Lane, Bolney Road, Deaks Lane, Staplefield Road, Slough Green Lane and vice versa.
This restriction will be effective for a maximum of 5 days from the start date given above.
Any queries about the effect of the closure on traffic using the highway please contact West Sussex County Council on 01243 642105.
Any queries about the works please contact West Sussex County Council on 01243 642105.
Dated 08 February 2019
West Sussex Local Access Forum Recruitment
WSCC Press Release — 7th February 2019
Helping
everyone to enjoy the countryside
Do
you feel passionately about public rights of way and access to the countryside?
Would
you like to be involved in working to achieve opportunities for all?
If
the answer to these questions is yes, then the West Sussex Local Access Forum
would like to hear from you.
The Forum is an independent body which aims
to protect and improve access to the countryside by providing advice and
getting involved with important access projects.
The
group is currently recruiting new volunteer members and would welcome hearing
from anyone with an interest in access to the countryside, including land
owners and managers.
Chairman
of the Forum, Horsham resident Graham Elvey, said: "I have personally always found it
incredibly rewarding to be given the opportunity, through membership of the
Forum, of being involved in improving countryside access.
“Whether this is by
working with other volunteers, using our influence to guide local authorities
and other organisations, or involvement with works on the ground, the Forum
positively represents all who use, care for, and enjoy the countryside.
“If you would like to
help with this work, and take an active part in securing better access for
future generations - please join us!”
The
Forum holds four meetings a year and members also undertake site visits.
Full
training is provided and any travel expenses are paid.
Carers Support West Sussex Newsletter Spring/Summer 2019
WSCC Press Release — 7th February 2019
Welcome to our first newsletter of 2019! In this issue you'll
find news and details of all that's happening at Carers Support West Sussex,
including:
The Health and Wellbeing Market Place being held in Horsham on 14th March - a chance to find out what support is available from voluntary organisations
Details of our information sessions taking place in Crawley for carers of people living with Dementia
Information about a new online resource to help people prepare for the potential costs involved in caring for a family member or loved one.
Clinical Commissioning Groups (CCGs) Patient Roundup February 2019
WSCC Press Release — 7th February 2019
The CPRG is a forum at which patient representatives from GP
Practices, Healthwatch, voluntary networks and other groups from across the
area meet to discuss local health services. Notes from these meetings are
circulated and a copy attached below for review.
Welcome to the latest E-Newsletter from West Sussex County Council
The West Sussex Budget Challenge - the latest update...
Thank you to everyone who took part in last month’s Budget survey...
Of the 720 people who completed the survey, 55% of you asked for more information.
The proposed Budget for 2019/2020 is going through the democratic process and was approved by Cabinet last week. Copies of the various proposals and reports can be viewed and downloaded here.
The Budget for 2019/2020 will be discussed and a final decision made at the next Full Council Meeting being held at County Hall Chichester on Friday 15 February from 10:30 am. You can attend in person or watch online via our live webcast from this page.
Our Budget campaign page will be regularly updated over the coming months with fresh updates and can be viewed here.
Tackling Textiles in West Sussex
West Sussex Recycles has launched a new campaign called Tackling Textiles in a bid to get people thinking about the items they throw away...
Textiles are not just clothes; there can be a wide range of materials – all of which can be recycled across West Sussex:
clothing
bed lined and blankets
table linen
curtains
bags and belts
shoes (paired)
As part of the campaign, West Sussex Recycles would like you to take 10 minutes to fill out a Tackling Textiles survey, which will test your knowledge and understanding of recycling textiles in the county. Show them how much you know and don’t forget to share the survey with friends and family.
Community Hubs: Public spaces for the future
We’re launching a new project that puts public buildings at the heart of the community...
The plan is to create community hubs, transforming buildings into places where a range of services will be provided.
The idea is to create modern spaces where local people can meet, learn, take part in community activities and access the services they need.
Five million pounds has been earmarked for the community-led project which aims to safeguard the future of library services and children and family services. The first of the community hubs to get the go ahead is in Worthing.
Have your say on Worthing town centre improvements
A public exhibition and consultation is open until Friday 8 February...
Planted ‘green walls’ and a seaside-themed public square are set to be the focus of major improvements to transform a key street in Worthing’s town centre.
Plans to pedestrianise the busy area of Portland Road are being developed by West Sussex County Council in partnership with Worthing Borough Council through the Worthing Growth Programme.
Residents are invited to view the proposals at Worthing Library until Friday 8 February. A drop-in event will also be held at Worthing Town Hall on Wednesday 6 February from 12pm-5pm where local people can discuss the designs with council officers.
Throughout February West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service is raising awareness of kitchen fire safety...
In 2017/18 the service attended 270 fires which started in the kitchen – that accounts for 60% of all fires in homes. Throughout the month the fire service is sharing lots of information and advice on staying safe in the kitchen.
Choosing long-term care either for yourself, or supporting a family member to do so, could be one of the most important and expensive decisions you’ll make...
Carewise is a care funding scheme that can support and guide you to the most cost-effective option. Our care fees specialists are independent and accredited by the Society of Later Life Advisers.
Find out more and request a call back from a care fees specialist to arrange your free consultation at Carewise.
To receive a Carewise information pack please email your name and address to [email protected].
The Parish Office is open Monday to Friday from 10am to 3pm.