Residents are invited to join the annual Remembrance Sunday Service on Sunday 8 November 2026 at the War Memorial. The service will begin at 10.50am, with the Last Post played at 10.58am, followed by the two-minute silence at 11.00am. The Reveille will sound at 11.02am, and wreaths will be laid afterwards. The service is expected to conclude at approximately 11.30am. Please be aware that road closures will be in place around the War Memorial area, and roads will reopen at 12.00pm. This annual event provides an opportunity for residents to come together to remember and honour the servicemen and women who have given their lives in conflicts past and present. All are welcome to attend and pay their respects.

The Planning Committee Meeting Agenda for 4th November 2026 is available to view on our website and on the noticeboard outside Beeson House.

Southwater Parish Council is pleased to announce that it has become a member of CPRE, the countryside charity. CPRE works to promote, enhance and protect the countryside, supporting sustainable development while helping communities shape the places where they live. The membership will strengthen the Council's work across a number of areas, including planning and development matters, consultation on planning applications, and the ongoing implementation of the Joint Shipley & Southwater Neighbourhood Plan. It also aligns closely with our Climate Action Plan and biodiversity objectives, supporting our commitment to protecting and enhancing Southwater's natural environment for current and future generations. Through this membership, the Council will have access to valuable resources, guidance and expertise to help inform local decision-making and ensure Southwater continues to thrive as a vibrant and sustainable community. For more information about the work of CPRE, please visit their website.

Applications are now open for children who are due to start in reception at primary and infant schools across West Sussex in September 2027. The quickest and easiest way to apply is on West Sussex County Council's website and the deadline for on-time applications is 15 January 2027. Children born between 1 September 2022 and 31 August 2023 are eligible to start school next September. Children who are currently in Year 2 at an infant school will also need to apply for a place to start a junior school in September next year. Parents and carers are strongly advised to apply on time, before 15 January 2027, which will give them the best chance of being offered one of their three preferences. Those who apply late are far less likely to get a place at one of their three preferred schools and will still need to apply, as they will not automatically be given a place. Councillor Sam Raby, Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Learning, said: "Getting a good start to their education is so important for children and we want to make sure that everyone has the chance to make informed decisions about school applications. "I strongly encourage families to explore all available information when considering their options. Visit school websites, reach out to schools directly, and take advantage of open days. We are here to help too, so please get in touch with our admissions team if you have any questions about the process." All of the information about applying can be found on the county council website here: School places - West Sussex County Council. Free use of computers with internet access is available in all West Sussex libraries, where there is no need to book. Those unable to apply online can request a form by calling 033 301 42903. Parents/carers are advised: To include three preference schools on your application, listing them in order of preference. Parents/carers who want their child to go to their catchment school (where applicable) will need to include that school as a preference for it to be considered. If you apply after the closing date you are far less likely to get a place at one of your preferred schools. West Sussex County Council admissions staff can offer support to anyone who needs help with their application. Contact the admissions team by phoning 033 301 42903 or email the Admissions Team North: admissions.north@westsussex.gov.uk or the Admissions Team South: admissions.south@westsussex.gov.uk. Secondary school applications are currently open for pupils due to start in September 2027. The application window for on-time applications closes on Saturday 31 October 2026 and the application form is available online via: Secondary school places - West Sussex County Council.

Please read below for the current and upcoming roadworks in and around Southwater in October. Southwater Street 28 October - 30 October Utility repair and maintenance works carried out by Southern Water. Some carriageway incursion. Two Mile Ash 28 October - 29 October (09:30 - 15:30 only) Daytime road closure to allow Conway, on behalf of WSCC, to undertake Drainage Jetting works. Road will be closed from junction with Sandhills Road to junction with Trout Lane. Trout Lane 26 October (09:30 - 15:30 only) Daytime road closure to allow Drainage Jetting works from outside The Galdes property up to Little Fields property. Timber Mill 22 October to 26 October and 27 October - 29 October Utility asset works by Openreach. Blakes Farm Road 19 October - 26 October Utility repair and maintenance works carried out by Southern Water. Two-way traffic controls. Timber Mill 15 October - 19 October Disconnection or alteration of supply by UK Power Network. Worthing Road, Tower Hill 12 October 9:30am - 3:30pm Highway Repair and Maintenance works to Vehicle Activated Sign near Boars Head. Multi-way traffic controls. Broadwater Lane 12 October 9:30am - 3pm Road closure between the junction of Waters Edge and Copsale Road to allow for drainage jetting outside Tilley House. Colstaple Lane 5 October - 7 October Utility Repair and Maintenance Works. 24hr road closure for works to relocate and replace stop tap. Works oppo. Coltstaple Sud, with road closed between the junctions with Sedgwick Lane and Kerves Lane. Diversion in place. Anvil Close to Timber Mill 1 October - 5 October Utility Repair and Maintenance Works by Openreach. Some carriageway incursion is expected. Castlewood Road 29 September - 5 October Utility Repair and Maintenance Works by UK Power Network Footway closure. Bluecoat Pond, Christs Hospital 1 October Return streetlight column 15 to vertical and replace lantern outside no 39 Amberglade 30 September - 2 October Utility Repair and Maintenance Works by Southern Water Some carriageway incursion is expected. Castlewood Road 30 September - 2 October Utility Repair and Maintenance Works by Southern Water Some carriageway incursion is expected. Swan Close 30 September - 2 October Utility Repair and Maintenance Works by Southern Water Some carriageway incursion is expected. Bar Lane 29 September - 1 October Road closure to allow urgent safety carriageway lining works and to refresh white lines A24 Northbound, Worthing Road (junction with Bar Lane) 29 September - 1 October Slip lane closure for Bar Lane road closure. Blakes Farm Road 14 September - 6 October Utility Repair and Maintenance Works by Southern Water Two-way signals in operation.

Please read below for the current and upcoming roadworks in and around Southwater in November. Fairbank Road 8 November Southwater Remembrance Parade 2026 Mapledown Close 3 November - 5 November Utility Repair and Maintenance Works by Southern Water. Hop Oast Roundabout 10 November - 11 November Ash dieback works, removal of dead dying and dangerous trees from roadside edge. Pollards Way 16 November - 21 November Gully cyclical maintenance on high speed c/w. Preventative works. Horsham Bypass Northbound 16 November - 21 November Lane closure for gully cyclical maintenance on high speed c/w. Preventative works. Horsham Bypass Southbound 16 November - 21 November Lane closure for gully cyclical maintenance on high speed c/w. Preventative works. Kerves Lane 27 November Daytime road closure for overhead cabling works. Road closed from Bourne Hill Farm, 200m Northwards. No through road between A281 Brighton Road and Coltstaple Lane. Shipley Road 30 November - 11 December Utility asset works by ESP Electricity Providers. Traffic control (multi-way signals) will be in place.

The latest edition of Southwater Parish Council’s monthly newsletter 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. It's free.

As the colder months approach, now is a good time to think about making sure to stay healthy, warm and get prepared for winter. West Sussex County Council's winter campaigns bring together practical advice on everything from keeping warm at home and managing energy costs to preparing for severe weather and power cuts. Residents are encouraged to heat the rooms they use most to a comfortable temperature, with at least 18°C recommended. Winter is also a good time to check that vaccinations and health screening appointments are up to date. Flu, COVID-19 and RSV vaccinations can help protect those most at risk, while NHS screening programmes can identify health issues early, when treatment is often more effective. The campaign also highlights support available for residents who may need extra help to remain independent at home, including reablement services, assistive technology and wellbeing resources. Advice is available on preventing falls, supporting mental wellbeing, stopping smoking and reducing the spread of winter illnesses such as norovirus. For more information, visit any of the below links: Winter Ready Campaign Keeping Safe This Winter Support to Live Independently Cancer Screening Information West Sussex Care Guide 2026-2027 Horsham District Council Winter Warm Ups A little preparation now can make a big difference later and help you and your loved ones stay safe, healthy and well throughout the winter months.

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 16 October 2026, no contest was required. Graham Turnwell 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.

Southwater Skate Jam on the 4th of October 2026 proved to be a huge success, bringing together people of all ages for a fun-filled day of skateboarding, scootering, parkour, BMX, Inline skating, great food and community spirit. Blessed with perfect weather, the event took place under sunny skies and dry conditions, creating ideal circumstances for spectators and participants alike. The skate park was buzzing with activity throughout the day, with a particularly strong turnout from young scooter riders who showcased their skills and enthusiasm in the competitions. We hope to see even more skateboards, BMX riders and other extreme sports represented at the next event as Southwater Skate Jam hopefully continues to grow. A huge thank you goes to Team Extreme, who once again delivered the competitions with professionalism, energy, and great music, helping to create an exciting atmosphere that kept the crowds entertained all day. Competitors impressed judges and spectators alike, with winners taking home some fantastic prizes at the end of the event. Alongside the skate competitions, visitors had the opportunity to try their hand at parkour with expert instructors on hand throughout the day from Crawley Parkour. The sessions proved incredibly popular with both children and adults, with many people keen to learn new skills and challenge themselves in a safe and supportive environment. The event offered much more than sporting action. Families relaxed on picnic blankets, children played and explored, and even a few four-legged friends joined in the fun. Hardy Yard's pizza stall tempted visitors throughout the day, with freshly made pizzas proving a popular choice among attendees. Events like Southwater Skate Jam rely on teamwork, and we would like to thank everyone who helped make the day possible. Support came from Parish Councillors John Potts and Graham Watkins, members of the Parish Council office team including the Community Engagement Officer, who organised the event, the Executive Officer and Deputy Executive Officer, together with Neighbourhood Warden, Bettina Long. Most importantly, we would like to thank everyone who attended and took part. We received overwhelmingly positive feedback from participants, families and spectators, with people commenting on the friendly atmosphere, excellent activities and overall enjoyment of the day. Also would like to thank Horsham District Council and their Community Grant Fund for the grant they awarded us to help make the event happen. Following the success of this year's event, we are already looking ahead and exploring ways to make Southwater Skate Jam happen again next year, hopefully with even bigger and better activities. A gallery of photographs from the day has been uploaded to the Parish Council website below. We encourage everyone to take a look and relive the highlights of this fantastic community event. The photographs were taken by Southwater Parish Council's Community Engagement Officer, Veronika Tóth. We look forward to welcoming everyone back for another exciting Southwater Skate Jam next year.

The September Report has been published and is now available to read on our website. Click here to view: Southwater Neighbourhood Warden's Monthly Reports 2026

The Planning Committee Meeting Agenda for 7th October 2026 is available to view on our website and on the noticeboard outside Beeson House.

Southwater Parish Council is delighted to announce that the village has been awarded Silver Gilt in this year's South & South East in Bloom competition, marking an impressive achievement in our very first year of entering the awards. Silver Gilt sits just one level below Gold, making this a fantastic result for Southwater and everyone involved. The award ceremony took place last Friday at the beautiful RHS Wisley Gardens, where Southwater Parish Council's Senior Operations Officer and Community Engagement Officer proudly represented the parish. Both officers played a leading role in coordinating and delivering the many improvements, projects and preparations that formed part of our In Bloom entry. South & South East in Bloom is part of the wider Britain in Bloom initiative and celebrates the work communities do to improve their local environment. The awards recognise not only horticultural displays and attractive green spaces, but also environmental responsibility, biodiversity and community involvement. The Parish Council's entry showcased a range of recent improvements across Southwater, including enhancement works at the War Memorial, wildflower planting at Nutham Lane Village Green, Raylands Park and their outstanding conservation and environmental efforts, our upgrades to play areas and open spaces, maintenance of village assets, and more community projects. These initiatives demonstrated our commitment to creating a welcoming, attractive and sustainable environment for residents and visitors alike. Receiving a Silver Gilt award on our first attempt is a wonderful achievement and reflects the hard work of Parish Council staff, volunteers and the wider community. We are incredibly proud of this recognition and look forward to building on this success in the years ahead. Congratulations to everyone who helped put Southwater on the In Bloom map.

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 3rd October 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!

Last week, Beeson House was the setting for not one, but two special celebrations as we marked significant milestones for two organisations that have served the Southwater community with dedication for decades. Southwater Library celebrated its 20th anniversary, while the Southwater Community Police Office marked an impressive 30 years of service. The library officially opened its doors in September 2006 after what local newspapers described as "30 years of waiting". As the first new library to be built in West Sussex for 25 years, it was designed to be at the heart of the village and has remained exactly that. Located within Beeson House, the library brought modern facilities, thousands of books and a welcoming community space to Southwater. Over the past two decades, it has become much more than a place to borrow books. It has supported learning, encouraged a love of reading across generations, and provided a valued space where people can come together, discover new interests and access information and services. Sharing the same building, the Southwater Community Police Office has been providing a reassuring local presence since 1996. Run entirely by dedicated volunteers, it was established when the village police house was sold, ensuring that Southwater residents would continue to have a local policing presence. Over the last 30 years, volunteers have welcomed residents, offered advice and support, answered enquiries and helped signpost people to the right services. Many volunteers have given decades of service, helping to create an operation that has become a nationally recognised example of community volunteering. Both organisations demonstrate the strength of community spirit in Southwater. Whether through promoting literacy, learning and inclusion, or supporting community safety and wellbeing, the library and police office have made a lasting difference to countless residents over the years. As neighbours in Beeson House, Southwater Parish Council is proud to congratulate both teams on their landmark anniversaries. We would like to thank all the staff, volunteers, past and present, whose hard work, commitment and care have helped these services thrive. Police Office Volunteers with their Awards Here's to celebrating 20 years of Southwater Library, 30 years of the Southwater Community Police Office, and many more years of serving our wonderful community. Happy anniversary from everyone at Southwater Parish Council.

Following completion of the sale of Easteds Barn on 9 September 2026, Southwater Parish Council considered the sale proceeds and next steps at its Full Council meeting on 16 September 2026. The Council noted the final sale consideration of £650,000, based on the independent RICS Market Value valuation undertaken in accordance with the existing lease and purchase option. The £650,000 is a capital receipt and is therefore subject to restrictions on how it may be used by the Council. Pending consideration of future capital projects, the Council approved placing the funds via the Flagstone investment management platform in a 12-month fixed-term account with Standard Chartered Bank at 4.27% AER, maturing on 22 September 2027. The Council also agreed to establish a Capital Receipt Projects Working Group. The Group will operate in an advisory and idea-generation capacity, considering potential future capital projects and reporting recommendations back to the Council. Any future use of the capital receipt will remain subject to formal Council consideration and approval. Further information will be provided through the Council's usual meeting, financial reporting and decision-making processes. For background, previous updates can be viewed below: Easteds Barn Sale Completed Easteds Barn Explained: Current Position and Next Steps

Southwater Parish Council has published the Invitation to Tender for the Tree Survey 2026 Identified Works Contract on the Government's Contracts Finder website. The tender relates to works identified following the independent tree survey carried out across the Parish's open spaces and woodland areas in July 2026. Southwater Parish Council owns and operates various open spaces and woodland across the Parish of Southwater. It is the intention to undertake a contract for the works identified as scheduled in the independent Tree Survey conducted in July 2026. The successful contractor will be responsible for carrying out the works to the specification outlined in the documents forming part of the Invitation to Tender. All relevant information for prospective bidders, including the Invitation to Tender, schedule of works, specifications and site maps, is available via the Contracts Finder notice. The opportunity is open to interested suppliers, with a submission deadline of 9:00am on 29 September 2026. For full details and access to the tender documents, please visit the Contracts Finder notice: Tree Survey 2026 Identified Works Contract for Southwater Parish Council SCAM WARNING: If you are interested in submitting a tender, please ensure you only respond to emails from @southwater-pc.gov.uk.

Southwater Parish Council and the Neighbourhood Wardens are pleased to introduce the Memory Café Southwater, a friendly and relaxed monthly gathering for people living with dementia, as well as their carers, family members and friends. Starting on Thursday 1 October 2026, the café will take place on the first Thursday of every month from 2:30pm to 4:00pm at the Community Room, Beeson House. The café offers a warm and welcoming space to meet new people, share experiences, ask questions and find support within the local community. Whether you are living with dementia, caring for someone who is, or simply looking to connect with others, you will be made very welcome. No booking is required. Come along, enjoy a cup of tea and friendly conversation, and find out more about the support available in Southwater. We look forward to welcoming you.

Horsham District Council has now approved the application to designate a Joint Southwater and Shipley Neighbourhood Area. The Regulation 5 application was submitted by Southwater Parish Council, with the consent of Shipley Parish Council, and covers the full parish boundaries of both Southwater and Shipley. The decision was made by the Cabinet Member for Planning and Infrastructure on 9 September 2026. The decision notice and supporting appendices can be viewed on Horsham District Council’s website here. View the decision What does this mean? The approval means that the existing separate neighbourhood areas for Southwater and Shipley have been combined into one joint neighbourhood area covering both parishes. This designation allows the two parish councils to begin the formal process of preparing a Joint Neighbourhood Plan, subject to both councils working together and following the statutory neighbourhood planning process. It is important to note that this decision does not approve any development and does not, by itself, allocate sites or change existing made Neighbourhood Plan planning policies. It simply confirms the area that a future Joint Neighbourhood Plan would cover. What happens to the existing Neighbourhood Plans? The existing Southwater Neighbourhood Plan and Shipley Neighbourhood Plan remain in force unless and until they are replaced through the full statutory process. Any future Joint Neighbourhood Plan would need to go through the required stages, including evidence gathering, community engagement, consultation, independent examination and referendum before it could be formally made. Publication of the decision In accordance with Regulation 7 of the Neighbourhood Planning Regulations, Horsham District Council has publicised the designation decision and associated documents on its website. This includes: the name of the designated neighbourhood area; a map showing the area covered; and the name of the relevant body that applied for the designation. Residents are encouraged to view the decision and accompanying appendices. View the Horsham District Council decision Further information Further updates on the Joint Neighbourhood Plan process will be shared as the work progresses on our dedicated website: https://shipleysouthwaternp.uk/

The latest edition of Southwater Parish Council’s monthly newsletter 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. It's free.

Join us on Sunday 4th of October 2026, from 12pm to 4pm, at Southwater Skate Park, Ben's Field, Stakers Lane, for an action-packed afternoon of wheels, tricks and big-air moves! It is a FREE ENTRY event. Watch incredible live demonstrations from Team Extreme, participate in the competitions and join the expert coaches from Crawley Parkour, who will also be delivering inclusive parkour sessions suitable for all abilities, including children with SEN. Enjoy music, competitions, and plenty of opportunities to get involved. Whether you're into skateboarding, BMX, scooters, inline skating or parkour, or simply want to watch some amazing talent in action, there's something for everyone. We would like to thank Horsham District Council for their contribution to the event through their Community Fund scheme. Bring your friends and family and be part of an unforgettable day at the skate park!

Please read below for the current and upcoming roadworks in and around Southwater in September. Two Mile Ash 27 September A rolling road closure required between 09:30 - 12:45 to all the Barns Green Half Marathon, 10K and 5K races to take place safely. Worthing Road 22 September - 24 September Utility Repair and Maintenance Works by Southern Water. Traffic control (two-way signals) will be in place near Bakers Close and the Industrial Estate. Anvil Close to Timber Mill 21 September - 23 September Utility Repair and Maintenance Works by Openreach. Some carriageway incursion is expected. Emms Lane, Barns Green 20 September (02:00 - 21:00) Road closure to allow Network Rail works to be carried out. Worthing Road (near Blackridge Lane, Horsham) 7 September - 9 September Utility Repair and Maintenance Works by Southern Water. Traffic control (two-way signals) will be in place. Larkspur Way 4 September - 8 September Utility Repair and Maintenance Works by Southern Water. Some carriageway incursion is expected. Timbermill 4 September - 8 September Utility Repair and Maintenance Works by Openreach. Some carriageway incursion is expected. Eversfield 2 September - 4 September Utility Asset works by Openreach. Some carriageway incursion. Corfe close 2 September - 5 September Disconnection or alteration of supply by UK Power Network. No carriageway incursion. Charlock Way 27 August - 1 September Utility Repair and Maintenance Works by Southern Water. Some carriageway incursion is expected, alternative route provided. Charlock Way 29 August - 1 September Utility asset worky by Virgin Media. No carriageway incursion. Warren Drive 27 August - 3 September Utility repair and maintenance work by Southern Water. Some carriageway incursion. Timber Mill 27 August - 1 September Utility repair and maintenance work by Openreach. Some carriageway incursion. Broadbridge Heath 7 September - 8 September The restriction will be in place overnight only from 20:00 until 05:00 Broadbridge Heath Bypass, between Shelly Brook Roundabout and Billingshurst Road Roundabout. Volker Highways for West Sussex County Council undertakes an overnight road closure for essential carriageway lining and marking works.

Southwater Parish Council can confirm that the sale of Easteds Barn completed on 9 September 2026, following the exercise of the purchase option contained within the existing long-term lease associated with the Little Barn Owls Nursery Group. The transaction has been progressed through the respective parties' solicitors, and completion brings the contractual purchase option process to a conclusion and provides certainty for the continued operation of the nursery at Easteds Barn. A further public update, including information regarding the sale proceeds and the Council's next steps, will be provided following the Full Council meeting on 16 September 2026. For background, the Council's previous news update can be viewed on the following page: Easteds Barn Explained in a previous blog post.

The August Report has been published and is now available to read on our website. Click here to view: 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 5th September 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!

Following the death of Councillor Geoff Cole, there is now a new Councillor vacancy. If you are interested in becoming a Parish Councillor for Southwater, please visit our Becoming a councillor page or contact us to discuss the position.

The Planning Committee Meeting Agenda for 2nd September 2026 is available to view on our website and on the noticeboard outside Beeson House.

The Electrical Safety Fund is a UK Charity, and their application is now open, with £1 million available for projects that help protect people from electrical harm. Eligible charities, public bodies and registered not-for-profit organisations can apply for grants of up to £10,000 for projects including electrical safety education, replacing unsafe products and raising awareness of electrical risks. The Fund is designed to support organisations working with people who may be at greater risk of electrical harm, including those affected by the cost of living, rising energy costs, poor housing, age, disability, or other factors that increase vulnerability. Please visit their website for more details and to apply for the funding, here.