WEST SUSSEX COUNTY COUNCIL TEMPORARY ROAD CLOSURE TOWER HILL, HORSHAM 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 Tower Hill, Horsham from junction with Worthing Road to Christs Hospital is temporarily prohibited from 23rd October 2024. The restriction will be in place 24 hours. This emergency closure is necessary to allow UK Power Networks to carry out repairs to a mains cable safely. It is anticipated the works will be completed by 31st October 2024. Emergency vehicle, Residential and Pedestrian access will be maintained at all times. The alternative route for traffic will be signed on site. This notice will be effective for a maximum of 21 days from the date given above. Any queries about the effect of the closure on traffic using the highway, please contact the West Sussex Contact Centre on 01243 642105. Any queries about the nature of works please contact UK Power Networks 0800 0280709.

Businesses from across Horsham District are now being invited to express their interest to enter the Council’s Christmas Magic Displays Competition, as part of its ‘Buy Local Gift Happy’ campaign this year. The competition will celebrate the festive windows, displays and market stalls which help to make our towns and villages a magical place to be over the festive period. Local businesses taking part in the competition will benefit from publicity throughout December, with the businesses with the winning displays being awarded exciting prizes to celebrate their win including even more publicity in local media and a framed certificate. To enter, all businesses need to do is fill in a simple online form via the Council website by Friday 1 November 2024. They will then receive easy step-by-step instructions regarding their involvement in the competition. All entrants must then be prepared to take a high-quality photo of their display. For more information, please click here.

The last F&GP meeting was postponed due to illness on the 16th October 2024. The meeting has now been rescheduled and will be held on the 30th October 2024 at 7PM at Beeson House. To view the F&GP Committee Meeting Agenda, please visit our website here: Finance & General Purposes Meeting| Southwater Parish Council ( southwater-pc.gov.uk )  or view the agenda via the noticeboard outside Beeson House.

The November edition of the monthly Newsletter from Southwater Parish Council is now available to view, please click here: https://www.southwater-pc.gov.uk/newsletters Would you like to be first one to receive our newsletter? Scroll to the bottom of the page to subscribe!

The annual vegetation cut will be carried out on the Downs Link by contractors at various times during October and November 2024. This cut helps keep the path open as well as promoting fresh growth of ground flora in the spring. During this time please: Be extra vigilant. Follow instructions on any signage. Follow instructions from the contractors. Enquires should be sent to countryside@westsussex.gov.uk WSCC would like to apologise for any inconvenience caused.

UPDATE 16 OCTOBER 2024 - THE MEETING HAS BEEN POSTPONED DUE TO STAFF SICKNESS/ABSENCE. New date to be published in due course. To view the F&GP Committee Meeting Agenda, please visit our website here: Finance & General Purposes Meeting| Southwater Parish Council (southwater-pc.gov.uk)  or view the agenda via the noticeboard outside Beeson House.

WEST SUSSEX COUNTY COUNCIL (SOUTHWATER: PUBLIC BRIDLEWAY NO. 3568) (TEMPORARY CLOSURE) ORDER 2024 NOTICE is hereby given that West Sussex County Council made an Order under the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984, the effect of which will be to prohibit any person from proceeding along a length of Public Bridleway No. 3568 Southwater, from its south eastern end at its junction with Worthing Road (515667, 129292), north-westwards to its junction with Public Bridleway No. 3568/1 (515394, 126510), for a distance of approximately 354 metres. The Order is necessary to protect public safety whilst structural repairs are undertaken to an unsafe bridge under which the bridleway passes. Unfortunately there is no alternative route available using the Public Rights of Way network. The Order will come into effect on 17 October 2024 and will last for 6 months or until the Public Bridleway is safe to reopen whichever is sooner. Any queries about the effect of the Order on users of the Public Bridleway should be directed to Rights of Way Team, WSCC, telephone number 01243 777620.

On World Mental Health Day, let’s all come together to talk about mental health and show everyone that mental health matters. Talking about our mental health can help us cope better with life’s ups and downs,  reduces stigma and encourages people to seek help when needed. So, on World Mental Health Day and beyond it, why not check in with your friends, family, peers, or colleagues? World Mental Health Day is celebrated every year on 10 October. This year’s theme set by the World Federation of Mental Health is workplace mental health . The theme highlights the importance of addressing mental health and wellbeing in the workplace, for the benefit of people, organisations, and communities. Here is a list of useful numbers and resources for everyone, who is seeking information or help. Click here for the resources.

Confused about Recycling? West Sussex County Council , as part of the West Sussex Waste Partnership, have released a brand-new set of recycling animations as part of the successful Think Before You Throw campaign. These short videos answer common recycling questions, such as why recycling needs to be clean, dry, and loose, and what are additional kerbside collections. You can watch the new animations on their YouTube channel here.

To view the Planning Committee Meeting Agenda, please visit our website here: Planning Committee Meeting| Southwater Parish Council ( southwater-pc.gov.uk )  or view the agenda via the noticeboard outside Beeson House.

At the Full Council Meeting on the 18th September 2024 changes have been approved regarding the start time of Finance and General Purpose Committee meetings and Full Council meetings. These meetings used to start at 7:30pm but will start at 7pm in the future. For more information regarding council meetings and dates, please visit this page.

Location: Upper 1, Beeson House, Linton Square, Southwater, Horsham, RH13 9LA   Features: Size: Perfectly sized at approximately 260 sqft, this office unit is ideal for startups, freelancers, or small teams. Amenities: A bright corner office unit with plenty of natural light.  Enjoy access to a shared kitchen with a sink, tea making facilities, and a fridge, shared with the adjacent office unit. Rent: £4,400 p.a. plus VAT, payable monthly in advance at £366.66. Service Charges: Estimated at £2,460p.a. plus VAT for the period 2024-25, also payable in advance by monthly payments of £205/month. Initial Payment: Pro rata rent for the first occupancy period and one full month's rent (£366.66) required in advance. Term: 3 years, but open to discussions. Security Deposit: 3 months' rent. Parking: Please note, there is NO parking space included. Viewing Arrangements: We are happy to arrange viewings for any interested parties Monday to Friday between 09:00 and 16:00. Don't miss this opportunity to secure a practical and well-located office space in Southwater!   For enquiries or to schedule a viewing, please contact us at enquiry@southwater-pc.gov.uk .

Organised by our Neighbourhood Wardens, Bettina and Dom with colleagues from Horsham District Council’s Parks & Countryside Team - Jo Nixon and Jo Glossop, a lucky group of people were able to see & hear some bats -  Soprano, Common and Nathusius’ Pipistrelles were all present along with Noctule and Daubentons  - and, of course, plenty of toads!   They would like to offer more events in the future and really would appreciate your feedback.   You can either contact the Wardens directly , or use the following feedback form . We really hope you enjoyed your evening with them and look forward to hearing from you.

31st August 2024 This was the 78th and Final Southwater Horticultural Summer Show.  A fixture in the village since 1945, the Society has run a number of annual Shows including the Spring, Rose & Sweet Pea, Summer and Autumn (Chrysanthemum & Dahlia) Shows, not forgetting the Plant Sale where members could sell off any surplus plants before the summer set in.   The Society has also benefited from affiliate memberships including The Royal Horticultural Society, The Daffodil Society, The National Vegetable Society, The Dahlia Society, The Rose Society, The Hampshire Federation, The Sweet Pea Society whilst enjoying an interactive and fun relationship with neighbouring Societies such as Mannings Heath, Horsham and Slinfold Horticultural Societies.   The Society also ran a successful shop at the old Southwater Railway Station selling garden requisites from fertilisers, seeds and manure to flower pots for many years in the 1970’s and 80’s, and it had a hugely popular AmDram wing, (SHADES) putting on an annual Panto at the Village Hall – riotous events and great fun.   There were summer outings and monthly talks, too. Highlights included a talk by Marguerite Patten on her wartime cookery experiences and hosting an episode of BBC Radio Gardener’s Question Time, both of which were sell-out events.   However, lifestyles and interests change and people move on. Over time the range of activities and events the Society was able to offer became smaller and the number of people to run them even smaller. A decision had to be made and we were forced to make the sad decision to close.    One thing has remained consistent, though, and that is the quality of the exhibits which make it to the show-bench, and this year has been no exception! The fruit and vegetable classes in particular demonstrated the skills of the growers, battling against arguably the weirdest weather yet – storms, relentless rain, cold, drought and tropical heat have followed each other sometimes on a daily basis.  Even as we write this the day after the show, when a chilly wind blew under grey skies, we have had sunshine and a temperature of 28º.   There was a gorgeous display of dahlias and the Special Fuchsia Competition (we all started with the same single variety plug plant provided by the Society) was the most amazing ever. The roses were resplendent and the floral art simply stunning.  The afternoon brought plenty of visitors, who not only enjoyed wandering up and down the show benches but stopped to enjoy tea, cakes and a general chat, making it a proper village occasion.   A special mention must go to one member who was missing at the last moment – Jenny Ansell – who fell prey to the Covid-19. Jenny tells us she has only missed two shows before in all the years she’s attended, starting aged 4 years and 11 months in August 1957!  Fortunately, the virus didn’t stop her sending in some of her entries, which was lucky indeed as she won Best in Show for a jar of raspberry jam!                                                                 Here are the cup winners:                                                 Mr Robert Piper - The Whitbread Cup, Chairman's Cup, Over 60's Cup, NFVPA  Award,  Mr Munford -  The Broad Cup, Bonsor Rose Bowl,. Banksian Medal Mr Munford and Mr Robert Piper - The Gladys Wall Memorial Bowl C Dunstan  - National Vegetable Society Medal  Mrs Claire Parkes - Chessal Cup, Ansell Cup Mr Peter Buckley - Broad Rose Trophy Mrs Emma Clifford - Willcocks Cup -  Ms Jenny Ansell -   21 Cup, The Potter Cup Mrs J Goldsmith -  The Special Class Cup for a Fuchsia provided by the society as a plug in the Spring Show and grown on Mrs B Tucker - The Decorative Cup Mrs Jenny Blythe -  The Agate Cup,  Mila Devaney - Lindfield Cup, Best Exhibit Trophy for Children   Group Photo from left:  Robert Piper, Catherine Dunstan, Claire Parkes, Mrs J Goldsmith, Barbara Tucker, Richard Munford, Peter Buckley, Jenny Blythe.  In front Mila Devaney (age 7). Article: Written by Gabi Butler Photos by Nancy Brock

Sussex Police & Crime Commissioner Katy Bourne has launched a survey asking Sussex residents for their feedback on the policing service they receive.   Now in her fourth term as Sussex PCC, Mrs Bourne is eager to understand residents’ concerns and ideas in order to inform the priorities in her new Police & Crime Plan. Speaking about the survey, PCC Katy Bourne said: “As your Police & Crime Commissioner since 2012, I've been asking you, as local residents, to tell me what makes you feel safe or unsafe.    “I am elected to be your voice within policing so it is my responsibility to ensure that the Chief Constable is delivering efficient and effective policing across our county.  As I develop our new Police & Crime Plan, I'd like to know if issues that mattered to you before have changed? Please complete my short survey - I look forward to hearing your thoughts and value your feedback.” The survey can be accessed online and only takes a few minutes to complete. Please follow this link: https://forms.office.com/e/9f9hYFVAFA

West Sussex County Council are updating their Local Flood Risk Management Strategy (LFRMS). They would like to capture the views of local communities to help inform the future of flood risk management in West Sussex. They welcome you to share you views on previous flooding in your area, preparation for flood events currently and how flood risk can be better managed by West Sussex County Council. Please answer the questions in as much detail as possible. All answers are confidential and will not be shared with any personal data. The survey can be accessed here .

The Full Council Agenda is available to view on our website and in the noticeboard outside Beeson House.

Our Neighbourhood Wardens, Dominic and Bettina , will be holding their Warden Drop-in Session on the green by Station Road, Christs Hospital on Saturday 14 September 2024 at 1400 - 1600 hrs. They would welcome the opportunity to talk to residents about any concerns or issues they are experiencing and together find solutions or identify additional support services. If you are curious about the work of the Neighbourhood Wardens, please read their reports here .

Looking to improve your cycling experience or spend more time outdoors? Velo Square's Dr. Bike Events  offer an exciting range of activities, including maintenance classes, free community clinics, led discovery rides, and cycle confidence training, perfect for both beginners and seasoned cyclists. Whether you're interested in a tune-up or a guided ride, these events are designed to enhance your cycling skills and knowledge and help focusing more on your health both physically and mentally. How can cycling help you? This activity boosts cardiovascular health, increases muscle strength, reduces stress and anxiety, is a form of eco-friendly commuting, and improves joint mobility, and also great fun. :) Visit their website for information about the events.

West Sussex County Council Road Traffic Regulation Act Temporary Closure Notice for: HENFIELD: PUBLIC BRIDLEWAY NO.3514 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 the route below is temporarily prohibited: HENFIELD: PUBLIC BRIDLEWAY NO.3514 (DOWNS LINK) as shown on the map below. The path closure is necessary to protect public safety whilst surface improvement works are undertaken, with effect from 2 September 2024. This notice enacts a 21 day closure from the date given above and this may be followed by a further closure depending on the weather. The contractor is hoping to be able to leave the path safe to use at evenings and weekends. SOUTHWATER - PUBLIC BRIDLEWAY NO. 3568 The path closure is necessary to protect public due to safety concerns for the underside of the bridge at the eastern end, with effect from 6th September 2024. This notice enacts a 21-day closure from the date given above and we are aware that a further notice will be required. Unfortunately, there is no alternative route available using the Rights of Way network. Public Rights of Way Team (WSCC) - (01243) 777620; prow@westsussex.gov.uk For more information and updates on timings please click here.

SPC have just received notice from Horsham District Council (HDC) that tree maintenance works are being undertaken at the Country Park to remove trees with Ash Dieback. The works are due to commenced today (2nd September 2024). This is to meet HDC's duty of care to the users of the Country Park, the roads and footpaths and neighbouring residents. The footpath (SOW/1679/1) will thus be closed for the duration of the works. The ash trees requiring works are all in the advanced stages of the ash dieback disease and in the interests of economy and efficiency HDC have decided to remove all affected trees in one operation. The works are to be carried out under licence by the Forestry Commission and HDC will be replanting where gaps in the tree canopy are created. HDC have advised the tree works can be noisy and disruptive and thank residents in advance for their understanding in this regard. For more information and further queries please contact Horsham District Council on 01403 215100.

Come and join us at our next Councillor Surgery! When? 10:00am Saturday, 7th September 2024 Please see the poster for more details. A great opportunity to chat and discuss matters with your Councillors. 📣😊 We look forward to seeing you there!

To view the Planning Committee Meeting Agenda, please visit our website here: Planning Committee Meeting| Southwater Parish Council ( southwater-pc.gov.uk )  or view the agenda via the noticeboard outside Beeson House.

Our Neighbourhood Wardens held a Drop-In Session at Roundstone Caravan Park on the 14th August 2024, between 11AM and 1PM. Other organisations, such as AGE UK , Southwater Welcome Club , Southwater Neighbourhood Watch and Southwater Parish Council have also sent representatives to help people connect. A couple of Southwater Parish Councillors have also attended to help provide support, and a space, where residents were able to raise any concerns, issues or ideas they may have regarding the village. The residents of the area have all been previously informed about the event, and the team had a few visitors, who all shared their thoughts about things around Southwater. Thank you all for coming and we hope to see you more of you next time or at our other events. These Drop-In Sessions happen regularly at various places within Southwater and are always a great opportunity for everyone to share their concerns, safety issues or for people who would like to connect with other residents and organisations, groups from the village. If you missed the last Drop-In session, but wish to contact the wardens, please click here . Southwater Parish Council also holds a monthly councillor surgery at Beeson House, every first Saturday of the month, except August. The next one will be on the 7th of September from 10AM. Would you like to be informed about events and news about Southwater? Sign up to our newsletter at the bottom of our website, it only take a few seconds, and you will amongst the first ones to get informed!

West Sussex County Council Road Traffic Regulation Act Temporary Closure Notice. Where? Public Footpath Nos. 2955 & 1665 in Southwater. 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 the route below is temporarily prohibited: SOUTHWATER: PUBLIC FOOTPATH NOS. 2955 & 1665 as shown on the map below. The path closure is necessary to protect public safety whilst surface improvement works are undertaken. When? With effect from 19th August 2024. This notice enacts a 21-day closure from the date given above or until the works are completed, whichever is sooner. Unfortunately, there is no alternative route available using the Rights of Way network. For more information, please contact: Public Rights of Way Team (WSCC) - (01243) 777620 prow@westsussex.gov.uk Ref.: ED/RW/I.46028

Due to surface improvements works, the Downs Link at Henfield: BRIDLEWAY NO.3514 will have a CLOSURE between Upper Station Road and Betley Bridge. When? From 2nd September 2024 for approximately 2 to 3 weeks.   For updates on timings please visit : www.westsussex.gov.uk/leisure-recreation-and-community/walking-horse-riding-and-cycling/downs-link/#   During this time the Downs Link will only be open on evenings and weekends. No alternative route will be available. West Sussex County Council apologises for any inconvenience caused.

Location: Upper 1, Beeson House, Linton Square, Southwater, Horsham, RH13 9LA   Features: Size: Perfectly sized at approximately 260 sqft, this office unit is ideal for startups, freelancers, or small teams. Amenities: A bright corner office unit with plenty of natural light.  Enjoy access to a shared kitchen with a sink, tea making facilities, and a fridge, shared with the adjacent office unit. Rent: £4,400 p.a. plus VAT, payable monthly in advance at £366.66. Service Charges: Estimated at £2,460p.a. plus VAT for the period 2024-25, also payable in advance by monthly payments of £205/month. Initial Payment: Pro rata rent for the first occupancy period and one full month's rent (£366.66) required in advance. Term: 3 years, but open to discussions. Security Deposit: 3 months' rent. Parking: Please note, there is NO parking space included. Viewing Arrangements: We are happy to arrange viewings for any interested parties Monday to Friday between 09:00 and 16:00. Don't miss this opportunity to secure a practical and well-located office space in Southwater!   For enquiries or to schedule a viewing, please contact us at enquiry@southwater-pc.gov.uk .

The September edition of the monthly Newsletter from Southwater Parish Council is now available to view, please click here: https://www.southwater-pc.gov.uk/newsletters