I know that for many local residents, unsustainable development on the green places that surround our villages and small towns is a significant concern. For that reason, I am pleased that last week we received positive news on planning reform that will prevent unsustainable housebuilding whilst still delivering the affordable homes that future generations need.
The key measures that the Government announced were a shift to focus on building in urban centres, to brownfield development and to protect green spaces. It means development will be focussed on cities such as London, Cambridge and Manchester and see them grow upwards rather than outwards – something that I advocated in my very first speech in Parliament.
Arundel & South Downs has built 2 to 3 times more houses than the average constituency, so it is only fair to move development onto areas where the infrastructure is already there to support it.
Representing the most rural parts of West Sussex, I know how dependent most of us are on our cars. They are a necessity or a lifeline, not some luxury as those living in the middle of cities which are well provided with public transport (paid for out of our taxes!) sometimes seem to think. So, I was pleased to read at the weekend that Rishi Sunak has announced a review into anti-car measures. Top of the list should be those schemes like ULEZ in London which mean motorists will have to pay £12.50 a day to drive inside the M25.
As the Ashes cricket tournament drew to a thrilling close this week, I would like to particularly like to highlight the work of the Arundel Cricket Foundation who work tirelessly to improve the wellbeing of young people using the power of cricket, outdoor recreation and their unique historic setting.
