Council launches plans that will ‘make a difference’ across district

Lewes District Council has embarked on an ambitious and far-reaching programme of community projects that will see a host of new developments and improvements across the district over the next 12 months.

The projects include a renewal of play areas, new sports facilities, green initiatives that will increase biodiversity in the district, tackle the impact of climate change and help the council become carbon net zero by 2030.  There will also be greater access to the countryside, a new wetland and wildflower meadows created, more tree planting and enhancements in local parks and gardens.

Councillor Zoe Nicholson, Leader of Lewes District Council, said:  “I am obviously delighted that the plans we are announcing today will make a difference in communities all over Lewes district.

“These are very tough time for many residents and as a council we will do all we can to help, that includes investing in our play areas and green spaces, which everyone can enjoy.”

This week councillors visited Hoath Wood (pictured) to see how council officers are working with the Sussex Flow Initiative, a partnership including Sussex Wildlife Trust, to implement natural flood management measures such as leaky dams, to reduce the risks of flooding during prolonged periods of wet weather.

Councillor James MacCleary, Deputy Leader of Lewes District Council, added:

“It was great to see how our officers and our partners are using natural resources in Hoath Wood to slow down the flow of water. 

“Flooding has long been a problem for residents in this part of Newhaven and it’s brilliant to see action to address that while remaining in absolute harmony with the woodland environment.

“I am also very excited to see local play areas being upgraded across the district. 

“As a dad with two young children, I know how important these facilities are to parents. 

“It is these sorts of investments in our community’s future that make me proud of the work our Alliance has done since taking over the council in 2019.”

The council is developing a website where residents can visit and see all the initiatives that will benefit local communities.

Councillor Chris Collier, Cabinet Member for Performance and People, said: “The Co-operative Alliance has the health and wellbeing of all communities in the district at the heart of everything we do. 

“It is heartening and a source of great pride for me and all my colleagues to have funded a raft of projects that will bring so many different benefits and enhancements to the district.”