District Dispatch - 01 March 2022

Over the past two years, we've had to adapt the way we behave to help keep us safe. I know that the Government is keen for us to continue with some of these steps to help reduce the risk of catching and passing on Covid-19. These include: getting vaccinated; letting fresh air in if meeting indoors; wearing a face covering in crowded and enclosed spaces; trying to stay at home if unwell; taking a test if displaying Covid-19 symptoms; and, regularly washing or sanitising our hands. You can read more about the latest advice on the Government's Coronavirus webpage (opens new window).

As you know, as a council we are committed to working with you to tackle climate change. Last year, we developed a Climate Emergency Action Plan and we have been working hard to put in place actions and schemes that will help us to reduce the impact we have on the environment. One of our projects has involved working with you to plant trees across the district. I'm pleased to tell you that we have now distributed a total of 8,020 free trees to residents, community groups, schools, landowners and businesses across the district.

In addition to this scheme, the council is also working on various other tree planting projects. One project involves funding tree planting within the farmed landscape, and we have been supporting private landowners who want to help increase tree cover in the district by planting trees on their land. In the north of the district two farms in Northchapel and Kirdford are undertaking tree planting on their land and a community orchard is also set to be planted along a footpath in Goodwood. Work is also underway to plant three mini urban forests — one in Selsey, one in Chichester and one in Midhurst.

The combination of these different projects will have a positive impact on our communities and help us combat climate change in our area. Trees are a precious natural asset and, as a natural carbon sink, are a vital part of the fight against climate change. Trees also create habitats for wildlife, improve biodiversity, and aid wildlife corridors.

These are some of the many initiatives we are currently working on to help to tackle climate change, which I will tell you more about over the coming weeks. As I mentioned a few weeks ago, we are also running a campaign to highlight the range of home energy efficiency measures that you can take to help you save money and protect the environment. You can find out more about tips and advice on reducing your carbon footprint by visiting our Climate Change webpage.

Last week, I mentioned that the dates for the launch events for Culture Spark would soon be revealed. This is a new creative season of events, performances, live entertainment and community projects to celebrate a momentous year of culture. I'm really pleased to tell you that they have now been confirmed and will take place on Chichester's Cathedral Green on 29 March; Medmerry Mill, Selsey on 30 March; and Cowdray Ruins in Midhurst on 31 March. It's worth putting the dates into your diaries now because you won't want to miss them. We will also shortly be able to share the whole programme with you, which goes all the way up to October! More information can be found on The Great Sussex Way's Culture Spark (opens new window) webpage.

Please also don't forget that our to Chichester on Sunday 13 March. The markets will take place in North Street and East Street between 10am and 4pm.

Best Wishes

Cllr Eileen Lintill

Leader of Chichester District Council