Developers to protect nature and biodiversity
The launch of the updated Mid Sussex Local Plan process has been rightly paused to allow for further considerations and policy insight, as the impact would be substantial and include most unwelcome changes to our special landscapes and communities. Many constituents have been in touch and I’m urgently engaging with councillors and the leadership on this. I’ve written to the Housing Secretary to raise my deep concerns and to ask for guidance on how we can deliver the homes people need and in the places that our right for our constituency.
Importantly, this can take into account the government’s new consultation on further protecting our wildlife and ecosystems through the planning process. This Biodiversity Net Gain consultation sets out proposals which will help developers, planners, and communities ensure nature and biodiversity gain are at the heart of all decision-making and design going forward. The consultation is asking developers, planning authorities, environmental professionals, landowners and all for their views.
From this week, the self-isolation period after a positive Covid-19 test can now end after five full days, as long they test negative on day five and six, providing a real boost to businesses and as well as reducing staffing shortages affecting our public services. Regarding these shortages, I met with Govia Thameslink Railway again last week to raise deep anger felt by myself and constituents at the ongoing reduced timetable, due to high levels of staff absences. The main positive which came out of our conversation was a confirmation of addition extra services from this Monday. However, I made it abundantly clear that the longer they continue to provide reduced services, the more likely it would be they lose further local loyal and high-paying customers. I also highlighted this situation to the Minister for Rail this week, to again reiterate my frustration at these inadequate, reduced services pointed out urgent action must be taken. Like many constituents, I support halting the rollout of our new smart motorways, while we invest £900million to upgrades on existing schemes, to increase confidence and safety on our roads. This is the sensible, measured decision and is in the best interests of our drivers and infrastructure going forward.
Meanwhile, further good news,
WSCC and Fairbridge Developments
Ltd (FDL) have worked together to revise closure plans for the Cuckfield Road/Fairbridge Way roundabout junction to improve access to businesses north of the roundabout, following businesses and constituents raising concerns with me. Revised plans are now in place for a northern/oneway route to be retained into Cuckfield Road at this junction for all but two brief separate seven-day periods. Works will run from the February 7, with a full reopening on the May 15.