There was a massive response to our December survey, it clearly struck a chord with members and the wider public. We’d like to thank all those who responded and now invite your thoughts on the values and commitments you’ve highlighted to inform our developing Sussex Countryside Charter.

We want to send a strong message to people who have an influence on our futures and to strengthen partnerships, working together to protect and enrich the countryside.

Do let us know what you think - please go to this web page or email us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

The CPRE Sussex Spring Conference ‘Futureproofing’ on 23 March 2013 saw Shoreham Ropetackle Arts Centre filled with around 90 people all fearful of the effects of government policy on the future of the countryside. The Conference heralded the start of a dangerous era for Sussex. It marked the end of a 1 year period for Councils to get Local Plans in place ‘or else’, before the government’s ‘presumption in favour of sustainable development’ means that applications will be approved unless the disadvantages outweigh the advantages dictated in the new government planning policy, the National Planning Policy Framework. The Conference coincided with the national CPRE report ‘Countryside Promises: Planning Realities’ which shows that 1 year on, the NPPF has allowed communities to be overruled time and time again, allowing damaging development to sprawl across precious countryside.

You're invited to our 40th AGM

At The Meridian hall,
East Grinstead
on Wednesday 10th July 2013
Meeting starts at 10:30 am
(Coffee 10:00am)

CPRE Sussex has written to all Sussex MPs, Nick Boles MP Planning Minister and Eric Pickles MP Communities Secretary calling on them to respond as a matter of urgency to fears that government policy and practice will fail to protect the Sussex countryside.

Breaking News

The Wealden District Council and South Downs National Park Authority submitted its Core Strategy to the Secretary of State for Independent Examination in August last year. The Hearing sessions have now closed but the Examination of the Core Strategy remains open until receipt of the Inspectors Report. The Inspector’s Report will be sent to the Council for fact checking by the 19th October 2012. It is likely to be in the Public Domain in early November.

Controversial Issues

... include the Ashdown Forest, seven kilometre development exclusion zone and the refusal of a scheme to build 160 new homes at the back of Heathfield Police Station because they would intrude onto the ANOB.

Meeting

Coming soon: Informal meeting to discuss building the district team up. We need new recruits and active volunteers in our district to keep a close eye on the many part approved and planned large developments in our immediate area. Watch this space!

Adur Local Plan

The proposed Plan includes threats to open country and fields on the edges of many of our villages and towns.