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Further to West Sussex County Council’s Planning and Rights of Way Committee decision on 4 February 2026 to make an order to add footpaths in the Courtland Wood area of Southwater, an order was made on 17 February 2026. Summary of 3 proposed footpaths, as per Definitive Map Statement: The Order proposes the addition of the following footpaths: Footpath 1 : From existing footpath 1658 on the southern boundary of Courtland Wood, running generally north, then east, then north, for approximately 653 metres , connecting to footpath 1660. Width varies between 0.35 metres and 1.1 metres. Footpath 2 : Running east, then northeast, for approximately 223 metres , connecting to footpath 1660. Width: 1.1 metres. Footpath 3: Running generally east, then south, for approximately 313 metres , connecting back to footpath 1658 on the eastern boundary of Courtland Wood. Width: 1.1 metres. Viewing the Order and making representations The Order Notice will be advertised in the West Sussex County Times on 12 March 2026. The period for representations or objections runs from 12 March to 23 April 2026. A copy of the Order and the Order Plan may be seen free of charge, by prior appointment, at the office of the Legal Services, County Hall, Chichester, PO19 1RQ. Order Plan may be purchased for £8.00 from Legal Services. Any representation or objection relating to the Order must be sent in writing to the Director of Law, Assurance & Insight, County Hall, Chichester, West Sussex, PO19 1RQ or legal.services@westsussex.gov.uk (quote ref: CC803.16334) not later than 23 April 2026. If no objections are received (or if any received are withdrawn), West Sussex County Council  may confirm the Order itself. Otherwise, it will be submitted to the Secretary of State for determination. Please read a copy of the Made Order for more information.

Residents and road users are advised of temporary overnight closures on sections of the Horsham Bypass on 5 March 2026, to allow urgent carriageway pothole repairs to take place. The works are being carried out by West Sussex County Council. Southbound closure - Southwater CP The southbound carriageway will be closed: From: the junction with the B2337 To: the first slip road for Broadbridge Heath Northbound closure – Broadbridge Heath CP The northbound carriageway will be closed: From: Hop Oast Roundabout To: Robin Hood Roundabout Both closures will be overnight only from 8:00pm till 5:00am Closure start date: 5th of March 2026 Maximum duration: up to 21 days (if required) Expected completion of works: 6th of March 2026 Additional information Signed diversion routes will be in place on site. Access will be maintained for emergency services, residents and pedestrians within the closure areas. The closures are necessary to allow urgent pothole repairs to be completed safely and efficiently. For more details about these works, please contact West Sussex County Council on 01243 642105, or email ttro@westsussex.gov.uk Residents are advised to plan journeys in advance and allow extra time when travelling overnight during the works. Please find information on how to report a pothole, here.

The February Report has been published and is now available to read on our website, please click here: Southwater Neighbourhood Warden's Monthly Reports 2026

Have you got questions or concerns? Are you interested in any of the upcoming Southwater events? Or is there something else you wish to talk about? Why not come along to our next councillor surgery? It is taking place face to face on Saturday 7th March 2026 from 10:00AM in the Parish Chamber at Beeson House. This is a great opportunity for you to speak with your Parish, District and County Councillors and raise any queries/concerns and share ideas you may have, or just to have a chat. See you at 10AM on Saturday!

The main breeding season for nesting birds usually runs throughout March to August each year. This can be weather dependent, and some birds may nest outside this period, so it is important to check carefully for active nests prior to cutting. Nearly all nesting birds are protected by law as it is an offence under Section 1 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act of 1981 to intentionally take, damage, or destroy the nest of any wild bird while it is in use or being built, or to intentionally kill, injure or take chicks or adults, or intentionally take or destroy any eggs. Hence, during this period all reasonable precautions must be taken not to disturb nesting birds, this includes completed nests and nests that are in the process of being built. Legally vegetation could be cut any time of year (except for some mature hedgerows protected by law), however, the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) recommend avoiding hedge cutting during the main breeding season for nesting birds, which Southwater Parish Council works towards ensuring advice is sought from RSPB where required. In circumstances where works are required during nesting season Southwater Parish Council ensures nesting assessments are carried out by a contractor prior to carrying out the works ensuring they also operate a Wildlife Policy. This includes visual checks of the area to be cut are carried out and identifying if there is the presence of birds acting in an agitated or disturbed manner. Birds constantly flying back and forth to the same area and giving ‘distress calls’ could indicate the presence of a nest. If during cutting, a nest is uncovered, works are immediately ceased in that area and to ensure the nest site is not left uncovered. Southwater Parish Council will not knowingly start work where birds or animals are nesting or roosting unless the works are considered necessary to public safety. If very large areas of scrub or bramble require clearance the work to these areas is carried after the nesting bird season and cleared during the September to February period when nesting bird activity is much lower. It is the responsibility of the Police to enforce the legislation of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981. If you become aware of someone cutting a hedge during this period, you may want to consider speaking to them and politely highlight the risk to birds’ nests, and the laws protecting nests. If they were to proceed knowing there is evidently an active nest at risk, please contact the Police on 101, and ask for a reference number. Should you have any further queries please contact Southwater Parish Council or RSPB Wildlife Enquiries on 01767 693690.

Southwater Parish Council confirms that under s9 of the Open Spaces Act 1906 it completed the acquisition of the parcel of land lying to the west of Reeds Lane (Title Number WSX99391) on 19 February 2026. The land runs behind properties in York Close and is crossed by Public Right of Way (PROW 1678). As resolved in the F&GP meeting on 15 October 2025 , and ratified at the Full Council Meeting on 19 November 2025 , the Council will not redirect the path, and public access will be retained in perpetuity. The Council further resolved not to transfer licence to Southwater Ghyll CIO or form part of the Leisure Management Agreement.   Public Right of Way PROW 1678 remains recorded on the Definitive Map. West Sussex County Council, as Highway Authority, remains responsible for maintaining the Public Right of Way. The change of ownership does not alter the legal status of the PROW. The Parish Council will carry out additional general land maintenance, where appropriate, alongside the County Council’s routine maintenance of the PROW, which happens approximately once per year as part of the countywide maintenance program.   Access Gates The Parish Council is aware that some properties have existing access gates onto the land. Gates installed before 19 February 2026 will not be required to be removed. The existing gates will be treated as historic arrangements. Any new access gates proposed in future will require written permission from Southwater Parish Council before installation. Such permission may require an inspection by the Parish Council and County Council to ensure no obstruction is created. Residents should contact the Parish Office with details of the proposed gate.   Use of the Land The land will continue to be used for: Informal pedestrian access. Public use of PROW 1678.   Where to report issues? Issues relating to the surface of PROW 1678 should be reported to West Sussex County Council. Other concerns, including trees, vegetation or boundary matters, should be reported to Southwater Parish Council.   Small signs (no larger than A4) will be installed at each end of the land confirming ownership and maintenance responsibilities.   For further information, please contact the Parish Office . The title plan below is also available in PDF format.

To view the Planning Committee Meeting Agenda, please visit our website here: Planning Committee Meeting  or view the agenda on the noticeboard situated outside Beeson House.

Did you know that we award small grants? Southwater Parish Council recognises the hard work of the many local organisations that help improve and enhance the community and we are committed to supporting them. These small grants are payments made by the Parish Council to an organisation for a specific purpose to enhance and promote the wellbeing of the local community, either generally or through a specific project; and which is not directly controlled or administered by the Parish Council. Organisations are eligible to apply for a Community Grant if they meet the criteria detailed in our Grant Policy. Visit our Grants page for more information regarding our grants and how to apply. Applications will be considered twice yearly in April and October, so now is the best time to apply to get a decision in April 2026.

As road repairs come under the responsibilites of West Sussex County Council, potholes on local roads and pavements in West Sussex should be reported using their online reporting service. This allows the Highways team to assess the issue and prioritise repairs based on risk. If a pothole presents an immediate danger to public safety , it should be reported by phone on 01243 642105  during office hours. Outside these hours, calls are transferred to an emergency out-of-hours service. Potholes on the A23, A27 and M23 must be reported to National Highways , while potholes on private roads are the responsibility of the residents of that road. Once reported, larger potholes are usually repaired within days, while smaller ones are reviewed during routine inspections. Please visit West Sussex County Council's website here for more detailed information.

Horsham District Council has issued a Notice of Uncontested Election  for the Election of a Parish Councillor for Southwater South Ward. As only one valid nomination was received by the close of nominations on Friday 13 February 2026, no contest was required. Chris Woodrow has therefore been duly elected as the new Parish Councillor for Southwater South Ward. This notice confirms his election in accordance with the council’s official procedures. The notice can be accessed in a PDF format here.

Release from West Sussex County Council: Whilst the council understands the frustration road closures caused by flooding present to drivers, driving through them can cause further issues including delaying opening the road, pushing water into residential homes as well as potentially negating the driver’s insurance should their car break down due to water ingress. It is also dangerous to those highway operatives who are on site to try and resolve the issue. This morning, one of our highways team members was struck by a white Land Rover which forced its way through a road closure. Luckily the operative was not injured but the incident has been reported to the police and any witnesses are urged to contact the police on 101. Our officers are there to help, they are not there to be abused either verbally or physically, and we urge the public to recognise this. We want to resolve the issues faced due the adverse weather as much as the public and ask for patience whilst we do so. For further information please contact the news desk on 0330 222 8090 or email pressoffice@westsussex.gov.uk .

Valentine’s Day is a lovely opportunity to celebrate love and connection, but it doesn’t have to come at the expense of the planet. With a few mindful choices, you can mark the day in a way that feels meaningful while staying on a low-waste mission. How to have a low-waste Valentine's Day? One simple shift is choosing thoughtful experiences over material gifts . Instead of buying something physical, consider sharing an experience that creates lasting memories without creating waste. A romantic walk, a homemade candlelit dinner, or a visit to a local art exhibition can be far more memorable than anything wrapped in plastic. Another easy win is to rethink cards and messages . Traditional Valentine’s cards often have a very short life before ending up in the bin. Digital e-cards are a waste-free option, or you could choose cards made from recycled paper. Better still, make your own using materials you already have at home—it adds a personal touch and avoids unnecessary waste. It’s also worth rethinking flowers . While beautiful, cut flowers don’t last long and are often wrapped in plastic. A potted plant is a longer-lasting alternative, or you might decide to skip flowers altogether in favour of something more sustainable. Finally, once you’ve reduced waste as much as possible, remember to recycle and compost what you can . Many Valentine’s items, such as paper cards and wrapping (as long as they’re not glittery or metallic), clean takeaway containers, glass bottles, and plastic sweet or chocolate tubs, can be recycled at home. Avoid items like balloons, teddy bears, and plastic wrapping, which are difficult or impossible to recycle. Food scraps and flowers can often be composted, helping return nutrients to the soil. A low-waste Valentine’s Day isn’t about doing everything perfectly—it’s about making small, thoughtful choices that show care for both the people you love and the planet you share. Source: West Sussex County Council's website

Upcoming Temporary Road Closure: Old House Lane, Southwater West Sussex County Council has issued a notice for a Temporary Traffic Regulation Order affecting Old House Lane in Southwater (Shipley CP). The road will be closed 24 hours a day from 16 February to 20 February 2026  to allow Southern Water to carry out essential pipe repair works. The closure will be in place between the junctions with Lackenhurst Lane  and Marlpost Road . Access will still be maintained for emergency services, residents, and pedestrians , though delays may occur. The works will be carried out by Clancy on behalf of Southern Water. For full details and live updates, please visit the official notice on One.Network : https://one.network/?tm=GB146913997 Other upcoming road works: Bakers close 30 January - 3 February Utility Repair and Maintenance Works by Openreach. Some carriageway incursion is expected. Worthing Road 30 January - 3 February Utility Repair and Maintenance Works by Openreach. No carriageway incursion is expected. Church Lane 26 January - 6 February Works to repair/install drainage, by West Sussex County Council. Quarry Way 4 February - 6 February New service connection by Southern Water. Some carriageway incursion is expected. Shipley Road 3 February Essential tree maintenance works arranged by West Sussex County Council. Traffic control (two-way signals) will be in place. Millfield 11 -13 February Remedial works by Openreach. Some carriageway incursion is expected. Cedar Drive 2 - 13 February Works to remove a layer of the footway surface and then creation of a layer of new material. Traffic control (stop/slow paddles) will be in place. Shaws Lane Overhead Pole opposite 1 + 2 Bonfire Hill 6 February Works to install/repair Street Lighting by West Sussex County Council. Traffic control (multi-way signals) will be in place. Reeds Lane 9 - 13 February 24 hour a day road closure to allow for Southern Water to replace a meter pit. Road closed outside The Bungalow. Bonfire Hill 13 - 17 February Utility Asset Works by Openreach. Traffic control (stop/slow paddles) will be in place. Worthing Road Northbound 16 February Highway Improvement Works, organised by West Sussex County Council to repair a pothole by cutting back the damaged area and replacing with new material, works usually take 1-2 hours. Worthing Road Southbound 13 February 9:30AM - 4:00PM Litter picking, oranised by Horsham District Council. Lane closure will be in place. Ash Road 17 - 19 February Utility asset works by Openreach. Some carriageway incursion to be expected.

The latest edition of Southwater Parish Council’s monthly newsletter for 2026 is now available to view in the Newsletter  section of our website. Would you like to be among the first to receive updates on all things Southwater? Simply scroll to the bottom of the page to subscribe.

Southwater Youth Project wrapped up summer with a lively trip to Thorpe Park, setting a joyful tone for the new school year. From September to December, The Ghyll was buzzing with regular sessions , from Duke of Edinburgh groups to art clubs, youth hangouts, and after‑school activities. Young people continued to benefit from pastoral support in local schools, as well as assemblies and RE lessons delivered by the team. The Duke of Edinburgh groups shone this term, giving humorous and heartfelt presentations about their expeditions, complete with pet rocks, lost route cards. Wednesday Youth Hang Out thrived early on, with debates ranging from politics to pop culture, though numbers dipped as darker evenings and refurbishments set in. The Thursday club remained small but mighty, offering a nurturing space especially valued by children with additional needs. Creativity flourished at the Friday Art Club , with young people experimenting with techniques and drawing inspiration from well‑known artists. Junior Youth Club continued to be the star of the week, welcoming up to 70 young people for sports, games, chats, and a safe space to unwind. Holiday activities added extra sparkle, with scarecrow trails, marshmallow‑roasting Minions, and a festive trip to Brighton for indoor crazy golf. As the year closed, a visit from MP John Milne highlighted the project’s impact and future ambitions, with exciting plans ahead including a new Tuesday after‑school session and an expanded gardening project. The full Autumn Engagement report is available to read here.

To view the Finance & General Purposes meeting agenda, please visit our website Finance & General Purposes | Southwater Parish (southwater-pc.gov.uk)   or view the agenda via the noticeboard outside Beeson House.

The Neighbourhood Warden Report for December 2022 is now available: 2022 Monthly Reports (southwater-pc.gov.uk)

The Neighbourhood Warden Report for January 2023 is now available here .

The Neighbourhood Warden Report for February 2023 is now available here .

The Neighbourhood Warden Report for March 2023 is now available to read here .

The Chairman's Report 2023 is now available to view here. Written Reports have been received from other Community Organisations which are available to view here. The Agenda is available to view here. We look forward to seeing you at the Annual Parish Meeting: Date: 30 May 2023 Location: Lardner Hall, The Ghyll, Southwater Time: 6:30pm - 8:30pm

The June Report has been published and is now available to read on our website. https://www.southwater-pc.gov.uk/news/categories/neighbourhood-warden-reports

The July Report has been published and is now available to read on our website, here.

HDC have published guidance on dealing with Dog Related issues. Below shows how to report these. STRAY DOGS ​Dogs found roaming free should be reported to HDC’s Environmental Health team. https://www.horsham.gov.uk/environmental-health/stray-dogs BARKING DOGS Email HDC’s Environmental Health team: Publichealth.licensing@horsham.gov.uk https://www.horsham.gov.uk/environmental-health/noisy-neighbours DOG FOULING Contact Hop Oast to arrange for the fouling to be removed. https://www.horsham.gov.uk/waste-recycling-and-bins/litter-and-street-cleaning/dog-fouling DOG ATTACKS / OUT OF CONTROL DOGS If there is an immediate threat to human or animal life call 999. Otherwise report to the police on 101 or via the Sussex Police website reporting form. HDC does NOT have a Dog Warden Service and cannot deal with dog attacks or dangerous dogs. https://www.sussex.police.uk/ro/report/ocr/af/how-to-report-a-crime/

The October Report has been published and is now available to read on our website. https://www.southwater-pc.gov.uk/news/categories/neighbourhood-warden-reports

The November Report has been published and is now available to read on our website, here.

The December Report has been published and is now available to read on our website. https://www.southwater-pc.gov.uk/news/categories/neighbourhood-warden-reports

The January Report has been published and is now available to read on our website. https://www.southwater-pc.gov.uk/news/categories/neighbourhood-warden-reports