We are delighted with the Inspector's decision to rule against Cory environmental's proposal to use Freshfield Lane Brickworks as a landfill site. CPRE Sussex has objected to the proposal throughout its history, which dates back to 2003, as it lies within the High Weald AONB. The inevitable increase in vehicular movements (in particular heavy lorries) would intrude into this protected rural area. Residents and members of the Freshfield Action Group mounted an effective local campaign which we have been pleased to support. Naturally, they are delighted with the decision.

We have responded to the initial consultation document published by the Environment Agency, and Chichester and Arun District Councils, for sectors between Pagham Harbour and East Head. This makes proposals for the management of the coastline in the face of climate change (which will unarguably bring a rise in sea-levels and greater extremes of weather), and the local allocation of resources within a national strategy. Three alternatives are given for each sector: No active intervention / Hold the line / Managed realignment.

CPRE Sussex has welcomed the news that Ford in Sussex has been struck off the list of Ecotowns in a statement made by the Housing Minister, John Healey.

This announcement follows extensive consultation by the Department of Communities and Local Government ending on 30 April 2009.

February 2010

Speaking at the Gatwick Airport Consultative Committee (GATCOM) meeting on 28 January 2010, Sir David Rowlands, former Permanent Secretary at the Department for Transport and current Chairman of the Board of Gatwick Airport Ltd ruled out a second runway at Gatwick for the foreseeable future.

The local CPRE Mid Sussex district group has responded to the Draft District Plan. Download our response summary and full comments below.

CPRE Sussex is campaigning for the reinstatement of the Wealden Link that joins Lewes to Uckfield. We are also working to promote improvements to the Hastings to Ashford rail link and trying to prevent reductions in services to rural areas.

After many months of intense campaigning with the Hastings Alliance we regret the decision by the Minister of Transport to allow the contraversial Hastings to Bexhill link road to go ahead.This road will cause immense damage to the beautiful and unique Coombe Valley.

CPRE Sussex have supported the re-opening of the Countryside Centre at Beachy Head, Near Eastbourne.

February 2009

CPRE Sussex has welcomed the refusal by the Secretary of State of three housing application appeals on the edges of Uckfield. The sites are Downlands Farm, Bird in Eye North and Bird in Eye South. All of the sites fall outside the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.