As September rolls around and children return to school, West Sussex starts to renew its sense of rhythm, and I wish
everyone heading to school a successful year. September also marks the month that Parliament reconvenes. Despite having to spend more time in Westminster, I will continue giving my full attention to local issues.
Foremost amongst these remains planning. Like most, I am not opposed to sensible-scale development, particularly if it provides genuinely affordable homes for locals. Sadly, that is not what is happening. Despite my objections on behalf of residents, Chichester District Council have decided to approve large schemes in both Kirdford and Loxwood. In the former, despite over 150 objections from residents, the Council has chosen to proceed with a plan that will overwhelm local infrastructure and alter the character of the village with knock on consequences for the traffic through Wisborough Green.
Equally, I am fighting the proposed solar and battery farm between Loxwood and Wisborough Green. While I am not opposed to renewable energy, this industrial-scale project would cover over 100 acres of productive farmland and disrupt the natural beauty and biodiversity of the area. If there is a place for taxpayer subsidised solar it is on brownfield land, supermarket roofs, car parks and alongside roads and railways.
As your MP I will work collaboratively with anyone but sadly there is an emerging narrative of Chichester District Council neglecting its rural northern villages when it comes to planning.
Andrew Griffith is the Member of Parliament for Arundel and South Downs
Contact details: Andrew Griffith MP, House of Commons, London, SW1A 0AA
Email: Andrew.griffith.mp@parliament.uk Website: www.andrewgriffith.uk