There’s been some very welcome news from the Housing Ministry this week who have listened to our concerns over the housing algorithm and the consequential housing numbers. The Planning for the Future white paper consultation that ran over the summer had some very strong responses from communities and MPs alike right across the South East. This included concerns raised by myself, our local councils and many of you. This week it was announced that planning policy will instead focus on making the most of brown-field sites within urban areas, and encouraging development around England’s 20 biggest cities which have also been largely impacted by the pandemic.
This year there’s been very little winding down for Christmas, in fact, quite the opposite. With the end of the transition period fast approaching, and with it a ramping up of Brexit positioning and negotiations. Despite the noise, I am confident that both sides are willing to strike a deal and I remain hopeful that one will be reached. That said, preparations for every eventuality are ongoing and I encourage businesses in doubt to look through the guidance available at, www.gov.uk/transition.
The good news is the vaccine rollout continues with GP-led vaccinations now starting across Sussex following on from hospital hubs that began last week. However, we cannot relax just yet with the sobering news that cases of Covid-19 are rising in many parts of the UK and Europe. This week London entered Tier 3, and the German Chancellor, along with other European leaders, has imposed tough restrictions until after the festive period. I know we’re all craving some semblance of normality as Christmas approaches, but we must be more cautious in the run-up, especially if we are to see our loved ones as currently planned.
For many people, 2020 has been a very tough year but I have been truly heartened by how eagerly help has come from our local communities, councils, charities, businesses and of course those on the frontline who have gone that extra mile. Not least our foodbanks who have stepped in to support people during hard times. Last week I joined a group in Midhurst to distribute household essentials, food and Christmas presents. The day was a fantastic local effort and a testament to the community spirit in our area. It was a complex logistical operation coordinating around 60 volunteers delivering to households right across the district and beyond. Unsurprisingly, under the watchful eye of Liz, Karen and Sue it ran like clockwork. I am really grateful to the whole community, for all their hard work last week and throughout the pandemic to help those who are going through hard times.
2020 has been a year most of us will want to leave behind in a hurry, but it has shown us all that community, charity and that British sense of stoicism is very much alive and well across the Chichester District.
Looking ahead to next year the end is in sight, with mass testing capacity rapidly growing, vaccines already being rolled out and either way some certainty with Brexit. 2021 will be a better year.
I wish you and your families a very happy Christmas and the best for the New Year.
