Someone I hold dear in my memory once told me that “nothing ever happens in Shermanbury.” Sadly, that couldn’t be further from the truth. I begin by paying tribute to Chris Whitton, the man who said those words to me, and who we recently lost. Chris was a dedicated and enthusiastic servant of this Parish, contributing to a number of initiatives that brought real benefit to residents. These included the Fun Days, the Neighbourhood Plan, and the early development of our flood prevention programme. He is greatly missed.
I’m pleased to report that progress has continued on several Parish Council initiatives over the past few years.
The flood mitigation project for properties along the A281 has now been completed by Edburton Contractors, funded through Operation Watershed, an initiative of West Sussex County Council. With the culvert under Shermanbury Grange replaced and rainwater now redirected beneath the road rather than into residents’ gardens, we hope to see a substantial reduction in flooding. Only time will tell the full impact.
Planning is proceeding with Henfield Parish Council and WSCC to install an automatic warning scheme for significant flooding on the Mock Bridge.
The Rampion 2 overland cable route remains a concern for the Council, particularly regarding its effects during the construction phase. Kent Street, a narrow country lane, is scheduled for heavy commercial use, which it is ill-equipped to handle. A planned one-way traffic flow will severely impact Partridge Green Road (B2116), while hundreds of 80-ton lorry movements are expected at multiple junctions, affecting already congested areas including Henfield, Partridge Green, and Cowfold. A meeting of local Parish Councils is being arranged to co-ordinate a unified response to Rampion and their contractors.
Planning permission has been granted by Mid Sussex District Council for three lithium-ion battery storage (BESS) sites near the Bolney Substation. The lack of government legislation governing these facilities is a serious concern. In particular, the site adjacent to the Royal Oak on Wineham Lane does not meet safety guidance from the National Fire Chiefs Council, especially regarding the availability of water to manage a potential thermal runaway event. We welcome the efforts of Horsham District Council to develop more robust guidance and urge collaboration with the Fire Service and MSDC to ensure all statutory responsibilities for public safety are met.
Plans are underway to maintain and enhance the cemetery in Frylands Lane, Wineham. The renovation of the chapel roof has been successfully completed, and a memorial wall—designed to provide a place where loved ones can be remembered and ashes interred—is currently awaiting the approval of contractor quotes before work begins.
Hedgerow management, particularly where substantial trees are involved, remains a challenge. While responsibility for tree maintenance lies with the landowner, uncertainty around ownership in some areas complicates matters. Where trees are in poor condition and pose a risk to highways or footpaths, action is required. Shermanbury Parish Council (SPC) is consulting with West Sussex County Council (WSCC) to determine the most appropriate course of action.
Illegal parking in informal lay-bys on the western side of the A281 is a continuing concern, particularly where it poses a road safety risk. Of special concern is parking above the only fire hydrant on the A281, which presents a serious threat to public safety in the event of a major fire. A verge planting scheme has been agreed with WSCC to discourage such parking, and work is due to commence in the coming months. Residents are reminded that parking on or tipping waste onto the newly planted area will be treated as criminal damage.
Significant changes to local government structures are also on the horizon. Across Sussex and Brighton, plans for a Unitary Authority are progressing. In Counties where similar changes have taken place, Parish Councils often take on additional responsibilities as the second tier of local government. SPC is aware of the importance of engaging proactively with this process to ensure the best possible outcomes for our residents.
Shermanbury Parish Council benefits from a dedicated team with a strong mix of skills and experience. I extend my sincere thanks to all councillors for their ongoing support—it is through teamwork that we achieve so much. We also greatly value the support and collaboration of our District and County Councillors, who consistently demonstrate their commitment to our community.
However, this work is not done by councillors alone. I encourage residents to get involved and help us carry forward the projects that make Shermanbury a better place for everyone.
Trevor J Brown
Chairman 2024/25