birdham-2

News

 
Bell Lane 12-18 August 2024
 
Bell Lane 2-11 August 2024
 
 
 
 
 
 
Crooked Lane May 2024
 
 

Main Road A286 7-14 May 2024

Birdham Parish Council's Speed Indicating Device  is currently located on the Birdham Straight

 

Main Road 1st May to 7th May 2024

Birdham Parish Council's Speed Indicating Device  is currently located on the Birdham Straight in the 40mph area on the Northbound carriageway side.

63,507 vehicles with max speed recorded of 85mph!

 

4th - 16th April 2024

The Church Lane data shows the total number of vehicles passing SID between 4 and 16 April was 10,892.

About 81% of the traffic was recorded at = or under 26mph.

The maximum speed of 54mph was recorded with 2 other vehicles  above 50mph.

 

 

Latest Speedwatch data for Church Lane 

12,750 vehicle movements

80% of the traffic was at or under 26mph

11% was above 30mph with a max speed recorded of 57mph.

 

Birdham Community Speed Watch Group, March 2024

The CSW group has deployed the Parish Council’s Speed Indicator Device (SID) in locations around the village and have obtained statistics on vehicle use and speeds.

The SID deployment in Bell Lane (40mph speed limit) provided the following data:

16 Jan’ to 4 March = 174,168 vehicles, average speed 35.75mph.

Maximum speed recorded was 107mph, with several recordings of 90mph and above.

The SID was then deployed in Crooked Lane near the school (30mph speed limit)

4 March to 20 March = 14,321 vehicles, average speed was 22.25mph

Maximum speed recorded was 48mph.  

The data from SID has been shared with the Chichester Police for their information/action.

It is planned to post the full SID dataset onto the Parish Website once the site has been upgraded.

The group will continue to undertake roadside traffic monitoring sessions which are essential to keep our local roads safe for all users.

The group is keen to welcome new members which will enable more sessions to be undertaken. Training will be provided and if you are interested in joining please contact Mike Evans, 01243 514095, or the Parish Clerk.

 

Date of Release: 14 September   2023                                                                     Ref: 4272

Residents in Chichester District asked to comment on the Local List for planning applications

Residents in the Chichester District are being asked for their views on the information that applicants must provide in support of their planning applications.

 

The information required is set out in Chichester District Council’s Local List. It applies to planning applications inside the district, but not those inside the South Downs National Park (SDNP), which has its own list overseen by the SDNP Authority.

 

The Local List is used to determine the validity of each planning application received by the district council.

 

It includes mandatory national requirements and any additional information regarded as reasonably necessary to enable the council to determine an application.

 

Each local authority has to publish its Local List and review it every two years to take account of any changes in national and local planning policies.

 

Chichester District Council’s Planning Committee has approved the revised Local List to go out for consultation. Once the public have had their say, the document will be updated and then go back to Planning Committee for consideration.

 

Members of the public can view the document at: www.chichester.gov.uk/planningadvice#localist and submit their comments by emailing: dcplanning@chichester.gov.uk. Emails must be marked for the attention of Sam Carter, Administration and Business Support Manager.

 

The consultation closes on 12 October 2023.

 
 

25 May 2023

 

West Sussex County Council renews drive for host families for refugees

 

As we rapidly approach 500 days since the start of the war in Ukraine, West Sussex County Council are appealing for a new cohort of hosts to open their doors to Ukrainian refugees.  

For over a year, the West Sussex community have embraced the Homes for Ukraine scheme, providing safe and secure accommodation to thousands of guests across the county. These placements will be coming to an end for most guests, and yet, as the option to return to Ukraine is some way off, there is the need for new hosted accommodation to allow Ukrainians to fully settle into their new lives in the UK.  

If you have a spare room, holiday home or self-contained annexe, and the desire to make a real difference to the lives of vulnerable people impacted by war, we would love to hear from you. You can be a part of an amazing journey, joining the hundreds of people who have enriched the lives of thousands. Oksana, a current guest said “I would like to tell you about my host, Alex, a sincere person with a big heart and infinite kindness. She and her husband have not just opened their home for us, but also let us into their life, and we feel like a part of their family here.”  

Ukrainians already settled in West Sussex have had time to become established in their communities – they may be working, their children in school and friendships already forged, and so the support needed from hosts is minimal compared to what is needed for new arrivals.  

Cllr Duncan Crow, West Sussex County Council Cabinet Member for Community Support, Fire and Rescue said: “Residents across the county have demonstrated their support and welcome, and the County Council continues to be appreciative of these efforts. Our Ukrainian Support Team and Community Hub also remain available to support Ukrainian families and their hosts.” 

If you or someone you know could offer accommodation to Ukrainians, our dedicated team will provide you with all the support you need to make their stay as comfortable and welcoming as possible, including matching hosts and guests to ensure a good ‘fit’, regular welfare checks and a dedicated contact to answer any questions or queries you may have. As a current host said, “this has been a rewarding experience, we have had lots of support and made friends for life”. As an eligible host, you will also receive a £500 per month as a thank you payment.  

We are also looking to work with Landlords and Letting Agents who are interested in working with us and have properties to rent. Please contact ukrainesupport@westsussex.gov.uk for further information about both opportunities.

 

For further information please contact the news desk on 0330 222 8090 or email pressoffice@westsussex.gov.uk.For urgent out-of-hours enquiries please call 07767 098415.Facebook  Twitter

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Adults across West Sussex who want to improve their numeracy skills can sign up for free courses and activities with West Sussex County Council.

It’s thanks to a £3.6 million investment aimed at boosting opportunities for more people to enhance their skills and secure well-paid jobs.

The free courses and activities take place online and in person and are available to residents on either a part time or more intensive basis.

Around 17 million adults in England, which is half of the working-age population, have the numeracy skills of primary school children. Poor numeracy skills can hold people back from having the confidence to get on in life and into work.

West Sussex County Council has been awarded the funding from the government’s £2.6 billion UK Shared Prosperity Fund, which is provided to offer courses that meet the needs of local communities as part of the government’s Multiply programme.

Multiply is available to adults, aged 19+ who do not already have a GCSE grade C/4 or higher in Maths or equivalent and want to improve their numeracy skills.

Nigel Jupp, Cabinet Member for Education and Learning said: “I am very pleased that West Sussex County Council is part of the government’s Multiply programme, and the learning opportunities this will provide to our communities.

“Good maths skills are important for everyday life, both at work and at home. They can help you to budget, help you support your children with their homework and help you progress your career.

“I would encourage anyone who meets the eligibility criteria to get in touch and find out more.”

For further information please visit www.westsussex.gov.uk/multiplyprogramme

 

 

 

District Dispatch

It’s unbelievable to think that there are only six weeks until Christmas. This week, we are launching our popular Countdown to Christmas campaign, which encourages everyone to support our local businesses.

 

From popping into a local family-run bakery for a loaf of bread, or buying a quirky gift from an independent shop, by shopping locally people can help local business owners and communities to recover from the challenges of the last two years.

 

We’re really pleased that our partners from across the district, including the Observer Series and V2 radio, will be supporting us with this important campaign.

To encourage people to shop locally, we are introducing a package of parking incentives to further support local businesses this Christmas. These offers include: selecting two hours and getting a third free in most council-owned car parks across the district in December, when using the MiPermit app; free parking every weekend in December in the Avenue de Chartres car park in Chichester; and, free parking after 4pm in the Avenue de Chartres car park for the Chichester Christmas Light Switch On event on Saturday 27 November, and for the Chichester late night shopping on 2, 9, 16 and 23 December.

 

We have also created recycled wrapping paper and gift tags, which are tailored for the city and each of our towns. Our partners at the BID, business associations and parish councils in each location are helping us to distribute these to local businesses who can give them away for free when people buy from them. So, please look out for these when you are shopping locally. You can also download the designs at: www.chichester.gov.uk/countdowntochristmas This is a great way of celebrating our local area and showing your family and friends where you have bought your gifts. You can find out more at: www.chichester.gov.uk/countdowntochristmas

 

Last week, we agreed to release funding to explore the possibility of a new project to support the high street in Chichester. We have been allocated £70,000 from the Business Rates Pool by West Sussex County Council to establish an ‘innovative high street project.’ We are keen to use the funds for a feasibility study to explore the potential of a project to develop a new destination market and event space to the Cattle Market and / or Little London car park locations. This could include a possible covered area to be used all year round. We will keep you updated on this.

 

While on the subject of markets, I hope you had the opportunity to visit ‘The Cross, Market and More’, which took place on 7 November in Chichester. This was a brand new quality street market, which featured local designers and producers. We introduced this following an increase demand for more varied types of markets across the district. It was incredibly successful and we hope to bring this back two or three times a year.

 

I’m also pleased to tell you that building works are due to start on the £6 million redevelopment of St James’ Industrial Estate in Chichester. The estate has been in need of updating and is part of our desire to provide quality business accommodation.

 

Last week, we also agreed to fund the community warden service for the next year, so that our team can continue work with residents to reduce low level crime and tackle social issues. Since we announced this on social media, we have had some really lovely comments about how important our community wardens are to you. We recognise the important role they play and so it’s great to hear you feel the same way too.

 

Finally, a date for your diary! We are running a special event for homeowners who are looking to make their homes more energy efficient and find out more about renewable energy. The event takes place on Monday 29 November at Chichester College from 2pm – 4.15pm. It’s free to attend, but tickets must be booked in advance at: www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/energy-efficiency-and-renewable-energy-in-the-home-tickets-196443486757

 

Best wishes

 

Cllr Eileen Lintill

Leader of Chichester District Council

 

 

 

 

 

ROAD CLOSURES OCT 21

Please be advised that the below roads are due to be closed on the dates and times specified for Carriageway Patching. An alternative route for traffic will be signed on site.  Please note that these works are weather dependant, we will endeavour to inform you should there be significant changes to the programme.

 

This road closure is covered by the 14.1 order made on 21st June 2021.

 

Road Name

Location

Date (from and to)

Timing of Closure (eg, 24hr, off peak 09:30 to 16:00, Night 08:00 to 06:00)

Wophams Lane

Donnington

28th October 2021

07:30 – 16:30

Pagham Road

Pagham

29th October 2021

07:30 – 16:30

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Second round of grant funding for local businesses launching soon

Small enterprises across the district will be able to boost their business thanks to a second round of Enabling Grant funding from Chichester District Council.

 

The scheme will open for applications on Wednesday 22 September and follows the first round of funding, which launched in April this year.

 

Managed by the council’s Economic Development Team, the Enabling Grant Scheme will give small businesses in the Chichester District the opportunity to access funding that will help them to grow and develop.

 

There are three types of grants and businesses can apply for one of these options:

  • Capital projects — a grant of up to £2,000 to help fund capital projects, such as the purchase of new equipment to improve productivity or to reach new markets (with the council providing up to 50% of the project cost and the balance match funded by the business).
  • Website and social media projects — funding of up to £1,500 to assist with the creation and development of a business website and/or social media channels (with the council providing up to 50% of the project cost and the balance match funded by the business).
  • Start-up awards — a fully-funded grant of up to £500 for start-up businesses (this does not need to be match funded).

 

“We had a fantastic response from local businesses when we launched the first round of applications back in April, and we are delighted to be able to support even more businesses with this second pot of funding,” says Councillor Tony Dignum, Cabinet Member for Growth, Place and Regeneration at Chichester District Council.

 

“We have created some guidance notes to help businesses understand the types of projects that are eligible and the information that needs to be provided with the application. These notes are available to view here: www.chichester.gov.uk/enablinggrantscheme.

 

“Please make sure that you have read the guidance notes carefully before you apply. All valid applications will be evaluated by our Economic Development Officers and assessed against the guidance notes on our website. The decision process may take up to six weeks from the application closing date.”

 

Businesses can find out more about the scheme and read the guidance notes at www.chichester.gov.uk/enablinggrantscheme. For more information, email business.support@chichester.gov.uk.

 

Applications open on Wednesday 22 September and will close on Wednesday 13 October.

 

This is just one of the ways in which the council’s Economic Development Team can support local businesses. The team offer a range of different services, including a business contact scheme. For more information, visit https://www.chichester.gov.uk/businesssupportandadvice

 

Date of Release: 1 March 2021                               Ref:  3979

 

Chichester residents urged to rethink food waste

 

Residents of Chichester District are being urged to rethink the impact that food waste can have on climate change as part of the UK’s first ever Food Waste Action Week.

 

The week will run from Monday 1 to Sunday 7 March, and is organised by the Waste and Resources Action Programme (WRAP). Each day will focus on a different way to reduce food waste, with simple tips such as:

 

·         Writing a shopping list so that you only buy what you need

·         Making sure your fridge is set below 5°C

·         Using up all edible parts of your food, such as broccoli stems and potato peel, which can be added to soups

·         Freezing your leftovers for another day

·         Getting familiar with food labels, including used by and best before dates: https://www.lovefoodhatewaste.com/article/date-labels-%E2%80%93-what-do-they-mean

Councillor Penny Plant, Cabinet Member for Environment and Contract Services at Chichester District Council said: “We’re really proud to be working with WRAP and the West Sussex Waste Partnership on the UK’s first ever Food Waste Action Week.

 

“We know that people in our district care deeply about our planet and the threat of climate change, and so you might be shocked to know that if food waste were a country, it would have the third-biggest carbon footprint after the USA and China.

 

“Around 70% of food waste in the UK comes from within our homes, so this highlights the role that we can all play in helping to combat this problem.

 

“I urge you this Food Waste Action Week to think carefully about what you can do at home to minimise your food waste. Make sure to follow us on our social media channels where we’ll be sharing more information about the campaign, including practical tips you can use to reduce your own food waste. These include simple steps such as

 

“Working with the West Sussex Waste Partnership, our strategy is to try and prevent food from being wasted in the first place.  Waste prevention is the preferred solution as it is more economical and sustainable.

 

“Alongside encouraging waste prevention, we are always exploring new ways in which we can help residents reduce their waste. We are continuing to investigate the feasibility of separate food waste collections for households and a trial will shortly be running in the Arun District.  We will be working closely with Arun District Council to monitor the results, and will share the results of the trial as soon as we can.”

 

Chichester District Council has recently approved the trial of 15 HOTBINs to be distributed to volunteer residents in the district, with the aim of reducing food waste entering general waste. A HOTBIN is a new product that offers a quicker alternative to the already effective traditional composting bins. HOTBINs compost at high temperatures and provide results in up to 90 days, 32 times faster than traditional compost bins.

 

Those interested in finding out more about the trial should follow Chichester District Council’s social media channels:

 

·         Facebook: www.facebook.com/ChichesterDistrictCouncil

·         Twitter: www.twitter.com/ChichesterDC

·         Instagram: www.instagram.com/ChichesterDC

For more information on Food Waste Action Week visit: www.lovefoodhatewaste.com/FoodWasteActionWe

 

 

 

 

Message from CDC Leader Eileen Lintell

District Dispatch

We believe that everyone should have access to the safety and security that a home can provide. Housing has always been one of our top priorities and it’s now more important than ever. This is why I thought it would be good to update you on the vital work we are carrying out to help people access good quality and affordable accommodation, as well as helping to reduce homelessness and rough sleeping. Some of this work has been accelerated as a result of the coronavirus pandemic in order to ensure that the most vulnerable people in our communities receive the help that they need as quickly as possible.

 

We have committed to supporting the development of 1,000 affordable homes for local people by 2025 in our Housing Strategy. I’m pleased to say that this year, working with local housing associations and developers, almost 200 affordable homes will be built across the district and let to households on the council’s housing register. There is no doubt that this will make a huge difference to the quality of their lives.

Over the next few weeks, 17 families will be moving into some of the new affordable homes we are helping to provide on the Graylingwell development. In total, there will be 30 affordable homes provided on the site this year. Another 15 households have also recently moved into another significant scheme, now known as Brewery Close, which is at Southbourne. Like Graylingwell, this site is providing a mix of new homes for families and single people, both for sale and affordable rent.  As well as providing security, affordable homes enable people to stay in their local area, which also strengthens our economy; helps our key workers; and gives children better life opportunities.

 

We also provided £200,000 to the Greyfriars Housing Association in Chichester towards an affordable housing development for people of retirement age. These homes will be provided at social rents to people aged over 60, who are on low incomes and who have a connection to Chichester. It is hoped that the flats will be completed and ready to move into this summer, while a second phase is also being planned, which will provide a further five homes on the site. We have also been working with the association to help house older people who have lost their privately rented homes as a result of the pandemic.

 

One of our priorities is to increase the amount of private accommodation available in our district to those who need it. As part of our response to the pandemic, we have agreed to temporarily suspend fees for private landlords who joined our property management scheme, Homefinder. The service can help provide a guaranteed monthly income to landlords, while helping people in need of homes to access quality housing. It offers a complete lettings service for private landlords, from helping to find a tenant, to dealing with all of the paperwork and day to day running of the property.

 

We are also committed to providing more short stay homeless accommodation. In January, we started to redevelop our existing temporary accommodation so that we can provide an additional 17 flats for people in our district who are homeless. This is part of a wider project to increase the amount of much-needed short stay accommodation for people facing homelessness in the district. Sadly, we’ve seen an increase in the number of housing related enquiries; our existing emergency accommodation is operating at full capacity; and, we are expecting to see an increase in homelessness once the eviction ban is lifted. As a result of the pandemic, the demand for temporary accommodation is expected to increase, making this project even more important.

 

Helping rough sleepers is also a top priority. Our Rough Sleeper Outreach Team continues to work with rough sleepers in the district to offer them accommodation and encourage them to seek further support from our local partners. Last winter, we secured a £60,000 Government grant towards supporting rough sleepers in our district during the continuing pandemic. Of this funding, £32,000 will be used towards meeting the ongoing costs of providing temporary homes to keep rough sleepers in accommodation. The remaining £28,000 will go to local homeless charity, Stonepillow, to extend their Housing First team. This is a project that provides support to the most vulnerable rough sleepers, by enabling them to set up a new home for life and access the wider services that they need.

 

I’m pleased to say that the number of rough sleepers in our district is now lower than it has been for many years. A number of those who we have accommodated have been doing really well and are being supported to maintain their accommodation. We continue to do all we can for rough sleepers and working with other local agencies and partners to ensure than no one has to sleep rough in our district.

 

If you or someone you know needs help at this time or you want to find out more, please visit: www.chichester.gov.uk/housing

 

 

 

Date of Release: 5 January 2021                         Ref:  3965

 

Key projects will make council buildings greener and consider options to bring disused land in Chichester into use

 

 

Making its buildings more energy efficient and looking at potential uses for unused land at the western end of Terminus Road in Chichester are two of the key projects that Chichester District Council will be looking at during the next year.

 

The projects, agreed by the council’s Cabinet at its meeting on Tuesday 5 January, are part of the updated Corporate Plan until 2022.

 

Cabinet has agreed to release £30,000 so that a feasibility study can be carried out for the decarbonisation of council buildings. The study will look at the costs and benefits of putting in place measures to improve energy efficiency in the council’s buildings and car parks as well as options for generating its own renewable energy.

 

“This project is part of the council’s Climate Change Action Plan,” explains Councillor Penny Plant, Cabinet Member for Environment at Chichester District Council. “Over the years we have taken a number of steps to ‘green’ our buildings such as adding solar electric panels to the roof of East Pallant House, and solar water heating panels to the north wing extension and installing electric solar panels to our pay and display parking machines. This project will build on the work we have already carried out and help to reduce our carbon footprint further.”

 

A second key project will look at options to bring unused land at the western end of Terminus Road back into use. The land is situated between the district council-owned Enterprise Centre and the Fishbourne roundabout.

 

“Supporting our district’s businesses is one of the key actions in our Covid Economic Recovery Plan,” explains Councillor Tony Dignum, Cabinet Member for Growth, Place and Regeneration at Chichester District Council. “We know that current occupiers of premises on Terminus Road need storage space and extra parking. The project will look at whether these options are possible as well as other potential uses for the land. The work will take account of the council’s Climate Change Action Plan, including consideration of the trees and hedges on site.

 

Cabinet has agreed to release £10,000 to progress this project.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Helping Chichester's rough sleepers - Make Your Change Count

District Dispatch

Last week, we launched a new campaign called Make Your Change Count to help support rough sleepers on a more long-term basis, and I am very pleased to say that we have received a really positive response to it so far.

We’re delivering the campaign in partnership with our amazing local homeless charities. The aim is to encourage people to give to Stonepillow, Heart and The Four Streets Project, instead of giving money directly to those on the street. The reason for this is that  while many people are very generous and give money to rough sleepers, this is actually helping to keep people on the streets, and unfortunately prevents people from accessing the long-term, specialist support that they need.

You may not be aware of it, but there is a huge amount of support available in the district for rough sleepers and by giving to our excellent local charities, you will be helping them to provide sustained support to clients. If you see someone sleeping rough, more often than not, we will be aware of them and we will have offered them support through our excellent Rough Sleeper Outreach Support Team which works closely with all rough sleepers in the area. For a variety of reasons though, it can take time for people to accept support, but we visit each rough sleeper every day to offer them support and check on their wellbeing.

I now want to tell you more about our wonderful homeless charities, who we are incredibly proud to work with. HEART is a partnership of 14 local churches in Chichester, who want to play their part in helping some of the most vulnerable people in Chichester. They have an amazing group of dedicated volunteers who each day, provide a hot meal to rough sleepers and homeless people at one of HEART’s churches.

Another charity is The Four Streets Project. They have a wonderful team of volunteers who provide a range of support each night. This includes providing hot food and drink as well as supplying people with essential items. Since the pandemic, they have also been providing a supper club and volunteers talk to those who attend and let them know about the different services that are available in the area that can support them further.

The other charity that we are working with is Stonepillow. They support homeless and vulnerable people every day of the year and provide a complete recovery journey for clients, focusing on helping them improve their health and wellbeing, and sustain independent living. They also work with a range of other partners to provide safe, secure, high-quality accommodation and support with mental health and recovery. They also provide fresh food and essential items and during the pandemic have been working to keep people safe and well.

We know that people in the district are extremely generous and want to help others, but the best way to help rough sleepers in the long term is to support the charities and organisations that work with rough sleepers on a regular basis.

Another aspect that you may not be aware of is that not everyone on the streets is homeless and that there are people who come into the city to beg for money, and sometimes from quite far away. Unfortunately, it’s very difficult to tell the difference, and so by giving to our local homeless charities you will be making sure that your money goes towards helping those who really need it. You can also be assured that we make every single person on the streets aware of the support that is available, regardless of their situation.

One of our top priorities is to prevent homelessness and rough sleeping in the district. We are working closely with our local partners to ensure that accommodation is available to those that need it and that no-one has to sleep on the streets. One of the things we have been doing is applying for government funding on behalf of local partners to help increase temporary accommodation in the area. We have had a number of successful bids and this will really help make a difference.

I encourage as many of you as possible to support this important campaign. You can find out more by going to www.chichester.gov.uk/makeyourchangecount where you can find details of all the charities.

Ultimately, ending homelessness is about more than just housing, it’s about providing a home where residents feel secure and can make a success of their lives.  Our ‘Make your Change Count’ campaign and the work of charitable partners aims to make a difference, not just by getting people off the street but making real change.  

Councillor Alan Sutton

Cabinet Member for Housing Communications, Licensing and Events at Chichester District Council

Vaccine testing for COVID 19

Volunteer to help find the vaccine for COVID-19
Join the national effort and sign up for the NHS COVID-19 vaccine research registry. Be part of the fightback against the virus by volunteering to be contacted by researchers to take part in COVID-19 vaccine research. 


There are a number of vaccines being identified, but only large-scale studies can give researchers the information needed about how effective they are. 

The National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) is working with the NHS and aims to recruit as many people as possible onto the registry, which will allow people to be put in touch with the vaccine studies in the coming months. 


Researchers are looking for people from all backgrounds, ages and parts of the UK - including both people with or without existing health conditions - to take part in vaccine studies, to make sure that any vaccines developed will work for everyone. 


The service is available to anyone aged 18 or over, living in the UK. There is no obligation to join in any study, if you are contacted. But by taking part, you could help researchers find vaccines to protect us all more quickly - which in turn could help the NHS and save lives. 

Sign up today! 

Was your child born between 1 September 2016 and 31 August 2017?

CDC Covid support grant extended

Council extends COVID-19 grants scheme application deadline

Chichester District Council is calling for local community groups and businesses to apply for COVID-19 funding support as the deadline for applications is extended until 23 October, or while funding remains available.

Chichester District Council launched the £500,000 discretionary grants scheme in August to help local community groups and businesses recover from the impact of the pandemic, as part of its COVID-19 recovery plan.

“We understand how tough things have been for our community groups during this very challenging period,” says Councillor Roy Briscoe, Cabinet Member for Community Services and Culture at Chichester District Council. “Although the Government and other organisations have issued grants, some organisations have not been eligible to gain support, or they still need extra help. Now that our grants scheme has been extended, we will be able to support even more community groups in our district that are struggling.”

Councillor Tony Dignum, Cabinet Member for Growth, Place and Regeneration, adds “We also know that there are still some businesses that would benefit from this support and we would encourage them to apply too. Although the deadline has been extended, anyone thinking about applying for a grant – whether they are a community group or business – should do so as soon as possible to make the most of the funding that is available.”

Constituted groups, including sporting and arts organisations can apply for the community grants scheme. The business grants are aimed at small businesses in the retail, hospitality, leisure and tourism sectors with between 1.5 and 30 full time employees.

More information, including the full criteria for the scheme can be found at www.chichester.gov.uk/covidrecoverygrants

Support for people self-isolating through Track and Trace

 

Chichester District Council is making residents aware that they may be eligible for financial support if they have been instructed to self-isolate by NHS Test and Trace — either due to a positive Covid-19 test or having been in contact with someone who has tested positive.

Chichester District residents on a low income who have been instructed to self-isolate by NHS Test and Trace since 28 September, and who meet the eligibility criteria, will qualify for a standard support payment of £500.

To help stop the spread of coronavirus, people across England are now required by law to self-isolate if they test positive for the virus, or if they are instructed to self-isolate by NHS Test and Trace.


To help those on low incomes to self-isolate and to encourage people to get tested if they have symptoms, the Government has announced a new package of support. Those who are eligible for this support must meet all of the following criteria.

Recipients must:

·           Have been told to stay at home and self-isolate by NHS Test and Trace after 28 September, either because they have tested positive for coronavirus or have recently been in close contact with someone who has tested positive;

·           Be employed or self-employed;

·           Be unable to work from home and will lose income as a result; and

·           Be in receipt of at least one of the following benefits: Universal Credit, Working Tax Credit, Income Based Employment and Support Allowance, Income Based Job Seekers Allowance, Income Support, Housing Benefit, and/or Pension Credit.


Chichester District Council will be processing applications and issuing these payments on behalf of the Government.

“Now more than ever, we want to support people as much as we possibly can by making sure that they can access all the financial help available to them,” says Cllr Peter Wilding, Cabinet Member for Finance, Corporate Services and Revenues and Benefits at Chichester District Council.

“The Test and Trace Support Payment Scheme is designed to help residents who need to self-isolate but who would otherwise struggle financially to do so. When self-isolating, people must not go to work, school or any other public spaces, and this can impact on people financially if they cannot work from home and won’t be paid for the period of time they need to isolate.

“To claim, you must have a notification from the NHS Test and Trace service asking you to self-isolate. You must be in-work, unable to work from home and receive at least one of the following benefits: Universal Credit, Working Tax Credit, Income-based Employment Support Allowance, Income-based Jobseekers Allowance, Income Support, Housing Benefit or Pension Credit.

“I’d encourage district residents who have to self-isolate to check the criteria at www.gov.uk/coronavirus and, if you think you may be eligible, to apply on our website at: www.chichester.gov.uk/testandtracepayments

“Residents who don’t receive one of the qualifying benefits, may be eligible for financial support from the council’s discretionary fund, which may aims to help residents who are not eligible for the Test and Trace Isolation Payment Scheme but who are on a low income and will suffer financial hardship as a result of having to self-isolate. Residents in this situation should fill in the same form at: www.chichester.gov.uk/testandtracepayments

“To continue to protect our loved ones, it’s critically important that anyone with Covid-19 symptoms, those who have tested positive, or those who have been notified that they are a close contact, self-isolate straight away. Please continue to play your part in keeping the Chichester District safe by self-isolating when you need to.”

Applications need to be made within 14 days of receiving the notification from Test and Trace, and claims can be backdated to 28 September.

Residents will need to provide the following information to make an application:

  • A notification from NHS Test and Trace asking you to self-isolate;
  • Proof of receipt of one of the qualifying benefits;
  • National insurance number;
  • A bank statement (dated in the last two months); and
  • Proof of employment, or (if you are self-employed) evidence of self-assessment returns, trading income and proof that your business delivers services which cannot be undertaken without social contact.

To apply and for more information, please visit: www.chichester.gov.uk/testandtracepayments

If you don’t have access to the internet or if you need help making a claim, please contact the council’s Revenues and Benefits team by emailing benefits@chichester.gov.uk or calling 01243 534509.

Message from Leader CDC

15th Oct 2020

District Dispatch

This week, the Prime Minister, announced a new three-tier lockdown plan. This sets out different rules for regions as being on ‘medium’, ‘high’ or ‘very high’ alert. These new rules have been introduced to try and curb the significant increase in rates across the country. As things stand, our district is currently on ‘medium’ alert. This means that we all still need to continue to wash our hands, wear a face covering in enclosed spaces and stay at least 2 metres apart – or 1 metre with a face covering or other precautions. We must also continue to follow the rule of six – limiting any social gathering to six people indoors and outdoors. Infection rates are rising across the country and so it is vital that we all play our part to protect ourselves and others and avoid further restrictions. You can find out more at www.gov.uk/coronavirus or on our pages at www.chichester.gov.uk/coronavirus

If you haven’t already done so, please also consider downloading the NHS Covid-19 contact tracing app. It’s the fastest way of knowing when you are at risk of coronavirus. The quicker you know, the quicker you can alert your loved ones, and your community. The more people that sign up to the app, the better we can control coronavirus. The app is free to download from the App Store and Google Play.

This week, we have also introduced the test and trace self-isolation support scheme. Chichester District residents on a low income, who have been instructed to self-isolate by NHS Test and Trace since 28 September, and who meet the eligibility criteria, will qualify for a standard support payment of £500. You can check the criteria at www.gov.uk/coronavirus and then if you believe that you qualify you can apply online at www.chichester.gov.uk/testandtracepayments

To continue to protect our loved ones, it’s critically important that anyone who has coronavirus symptoms; those who have tested positive; or, those who have been notified that they are a close contact of someone with coronavirus, self-isolate straight away. Applications need to be made within 14 days of receiving the notification from Test and Trace, and claims can be back dated to 28 September.

I also want to let you know that in response to the current coronavirus pandemic, we are assisting the NHS Test and Trace service by providing them with a section of our Northgate car park in Chichester for a new walk-through coronavirus test site. This service will be available by appointment only and we expect the site to be operational very soon. The majority of the car park will remain open for commuters, residents and visitors as usual.

Anyone attending an appointment at a walk-through testing site will be provided with guidance on getting to and from the test site safely, including: adhering to social distancing; not travelling in a taxi or on public transport; wearing a face covering throughout (including travelling to and from the testing centre); and washing their hands thoroughly before leaving for their appointment. This approach has been agreed with expert clinical oversight.

Testing is proving an effective way to contain the virus and so this facility will play an important role in keeping our residents safe. Testing is available to anyone with coronavirus symptoms and can be booked by visiting www.nhs.uk/coronavirus or by calling 119. Our priority is to work with our partners to respond to the current pandemic. Due to this, unfortunately the Sloe Fair will be unable to take place at Northgate car park this year. However, you can be assured that we are working closely with the organisers to make sure they maintain the right to hold the Sloe Fair in future years.

As the weather starts to get colder, please also check on vulnerable family, friends and neighbours. We are going to have some challenging months ahead and so it is more important than ever that we pull together to support those who need our help the most.

Please take care and stay safe.

Best Wishes

Cllr Eileen Lintill

Leader of Chichester District Council

Walking and cycling consultation Sep 2020

New consultation invites residents to have their say on cycling and walking network improvements

Local people are being encouraged to give their views on a new Local Cycling and Walking Infrastructure Plan for Chichester city centre, as part of a public consultation going live today (18 September)until 19 October 2020.

Chichester District Council has developed the plan to identify long term cycling and walking improvements in the city and its links to adjoining parishes. It outlines infrastructure that could enhance people’s cycling and walking journeys, and enable and encourage more people to walk and cycle in and around the area.

“We know that green transport is something our residents, workers and visitors are very passionate about,” says Councillor Penny Plant, Cabinet Member for the Environment and Chichester Contract Services at Chichester District Council. “We want our residents, community groups and businesses to have their say on the plan and its suggestions for safer, more accessible, and more joined-up cycling and walking routes.

“As a council, we are one of a partnership of local authorities delivering Local Cycling and Walking Infrastructure Plans across West Sussex. Over the last year, our officers have been working hard to develop a plan that, once adopted, will inform both the Local Plan Review and future investment decision-making by the agencies responsible for planning, roads and pathways. It will also help when bidding for grant funding and supports the Government’s strategy to increase the number of walking and cycling journeys, especially following lockdown.”

With the help of leading consultants, the council has carried out a comprehensive audit of current pedestrian pathways and cycle routes in Chichester, as well as assessing existing routes in and out of the city. As a result of this work, a selection of walking and cycling improvements has been identified.

Cllr Plant adds, “We have been speaking to many of you already, as part of our consultation with local groups, including:  local cycling and walking groups, residents’ groups, elected members, local businesses, West Sussex County Council, parish councils and Chichester Business Improvement District (BID), but we’re also keen to hear from as many members of the public as possible.

“The consultation is an opportunity to view the draft plan and offer feedback on the areas of it that interest you in a quick 5-10 minute survey. We’d like to know if you feel the plan’s suggestions would improve your journeys, or encourage you to walk or cycle on more short journeys.”

The survey is split into three main sections:

1.    Understanding how often people cycle or walk to their destination, and whether road, pathway and network improvements would encourage them to take more journeys like this.

2.    Walking improvements: The plan sets out a range of walking improvements across the core walking zone and two key walking routes, including for those using wheelchairs, pushchairs and mobility scooters. This part of the survey highlights some of the key suggestions, such as separation between cycling and walking routes and continuous pathways.

3.    Cycling improvements: Nine routes for cycling improvements have been identified, and this section offers the opportunity for people to comment on as many of the routes as they want to.

The consultation is now live and on: www.chichester.gov.uk/letstalkcyclingandwalking and the deadline for responding is midnight on 19 October 2020. There is also a list of frequently asked questions to help put the survey into context and explain some of the terms used.

People can request a paper copy of the questionnaire by emailing letstalk@chichester.gov.uk

People who would like to get involved with more consultations and surveys in the future can also join Chichester District Council’s Let’s Talk Panel. By signing up, they will be automatically notified of any consultations by email, and can decide whether or not they want to take part. People can join by visiting www.chichester.gov.uk/letstalkpanel

Walking courses to help residents improve their health and wellbeing

New walking course to help Chichester District residents improve their health and wellbeing

Chichester Wellbeing is launching a new walking course to help support people who find it difficult to maintain an active lifestyle.

People can find out if they are eligible for the course by contacting Chichester District Council’s Chichester Wellbeing Service. If eligible, they will then be invited to take part in a free 30 minute taster session to introduce them to the course. The taster sessions will run on the following dates:

  • Saturday 19 September 2020, 2pm 
  • Tuesday 22 September 2020, 2pm

Places will be limited to six per session in line with the current Government guidelines on social distancing. The sessions will be delivered by a friendly, qualified and experienced instructor.

Following the initial taster session, participants can join a subsidised ‘walk and learn’ course, which will run until December 2020.

“This is a pilot scheme which aims to inspire long term change in people’s behaviour and attitudes towards exercise,” says Councillor Roy Briscoe, Cabinet Member for Community Services and Culture at Chichester District Council. “The course will teach people how to walk more effectively to get the best from their body; all while having fun and enjoying themselves. Taking part in this course is also a great way to meet new people and spend time outdoors in our beautiful district.”

Residents can find out if they are eligible by contacting Chichester Wellbeing on 01243 521041 and answering a few simple questions about their current activity levels.

Support for early years - WSCC

  Many families are looking forward to the time when we will be able to open the doors to our Children and Family and FindItOut centres again, and we will share news when it becomes available.

In the meantime, Early Help continues to deliver its core offer during the summer holidays. A new programme of services for families, children and young people aged 0-19 (25 with Special Educational Needs and Disability (SEND)) is now available.

If you require support for your family, please call your local duty team for assistance. Contact details for our teams can be found at the rear of our programme.

Have your say - consultation on Dog control orders in public places

Works to start on Crooked Lane

Landbuild will be starting works with a two-way traffic signal system in Crooked Lane from Monday 27th July. They are to install drainage through sections of the ditch to alleviate the flooding in the Lane.

 

Council tax hardship scheme expanded to help more economically vulnerable residents in Chichester District

Leading councillors have agreed to expand a scheme which helps economically vulnerable people in Chichester District pay their council tax.

In March, the council was issued with £699,000 of Government funding to help those experiencing financial hardship as a direct result of COVID-19 to pay their council tax.

As a result, all working age recipients who already received the council’s own Council Tax Reduction support automatically received £150 and all new Council Tax Reduction recipients who are eligible will also receive £150 for the 2020-21 financial year, subject to funding being available.

It is estimated that providing support to existing and future working age recipients of Council Tax Reduction will account for around half of the funding. To ensure that as many people are supported as possible, councillors have agreed to extend this support to pension-age recipients of Council Tax Reduction and all council tax payers that are financially vulnerable as a result of the pandemic.

Applicants will need to demonstrate that they are financially vulnerable as a result of COVID-19 and are finding it difficult to pay their Council Tax.

“The funding is there to complement our own existing Council Tax Reduction Scheme which supports residents on low incomes,” explains Councillor Peter Wilding, Cabinet Member for Finance and Revenues at Chichester District Council. “The Government is allowing local authorities the freedom to decide how best to use any remaining funding for council tax support.

“We wanted to extend this support to include other council tax payers that may be financially vulnerable as a result of Covid-19 and it will allow us to support those who are in the most need. We already have plans to proactively contact those residents who will benefit from this help.


“We understand that this is a difficult time for many people and I would urge anyone who is struggling to make payments to apply for Council Tax Reduction. This is a means tested benefit and does not take account of outgoings. If you think you may be eligible, please visit our website for further details and to apply at: www.chichester.gov.uk/myaccount

“If you are already in receipt of Council Tax Reduction and are still having difficulties paying your bills, you can now apply for this new support by filling in the Discretionary Housing Payment application form at: www.chichester.gov.uk/benefitforms

“Residents can also contact us by emailing benefits@chichester.gov.uk or calling 01243 534509.”

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