Beware - new homes can blight any village now...

Beware any local resident who thinks they are safeguarded from the over-development of their local village, because the very policies that are in place to protect our villages can be overridden at the discretion of the council or inspectors.
Although you are invited to comment on applications, it appears your point of view, or your evidence the application is detrimental or damaging to the area, is incidental.
The Hambrook site is not SPA, it is a greenfield site and within a strategic gap. You would think that would be enough to refuse any application, but it would appear if there are compelling circumstances, the council or an inspector can at his discretion ignore these factors.
I could not see any recorded compelling circumstance quoted in the inspector's appeal decision.
At the time of the application, CDC did not have a five-year land housing supply document so the developer (based in London with no interest in the locals or village life) was able to use this to his advantage, and this was one of the main angles for the development to be allowed.
So when CDC did, in January, supply a five-year housing land supply 2009-2014 document, it was scrutinised and made to look unrealistic. But surely if CDC supplied this very document, then there is a five-year land supply plan.
So was there a severe or even high need for housing in the Chidham parish to present compelling circumstances?
No, it has been described as only a 'relative' need.
Did they find Hambrook had hidden facilities and amenities we, as long-standing residents, had missed?
No, they found that their very own inspector's report had confirmed 'Hambrook has very limited number of facilities and poor accessibility to public transport'.
So that means more car dependency – not very encouraging for the environment.
Two other inspectors, who had recently visited The Avenue relating to two different appeals, for far smaller developments, had upheld the refusals on similar grounds this inspector had overridden – the adverse effect on the living conditions of adjoining occupiers, the adverse impact the development would have on the character of the area, respect for and the amenities of nearby occupants, risk of flooding, flooding… and now there is another issue.
It is common knowledge the area suffers from sewer back-up and flooding.
Surface flooding is something else that may increase. The developer has offered a SUDS system to overcome this – time will see. But if it is not efficient, what then?
What happens if the new development benefits from the SUDS system yet the surrounding houses suffer from displaced water? Is there any comeback on the developer?
The southern area committee voted 12-1 refusal, Chidham Parish Council, our local councillor and a large majority of Hambrook residents rejected this application on realistic grounds.
Yet an inspector with no local knowledge, who spent 25 minutes on site, had the power to allow this appeal, thus deciding the future of the village to our detriment.

Danielle Novell, Hambrook

I must disagree with the unelected, government-appointed inspector who, after a brief visit from his ivory tower in Bristol, is allowing the building of 23 houses in The Avenue because of 'a lack of realistic housing supply plan'.
With housing being squeezed in places like Kings Meadow, Shepherds Meadow, Potters Corner etc, not to mention rather large settlements of travelling showmen in Priors Leaze and West Ashling Road etc, Hambrook has more than doubled in size in recent years.
It seems objections by Chichester planning committee, the parish council and residents do not matter – it is being allowed to go ahead because Chichester council was late with its five-year housing plan.
Local democracy?
More like punishment to make the council toe the government diktat.

JE Goddard, The Avenue, Hambrook



Water v gravel? It's no contest

Congratulations to Cllr Mike Hall! He has given the county council planning committee a watertight reason for rejecting Tarmac's planning application when they meet next Tuesday (Quarries could pose a risk to drinking water', Observer, February 12).
With huge housing development planned at Graylingwell, large areas north of Chichester (including the Hunters' Race application site) must receive the highest level of protection they demand as water source protection zones.
Water versus gravel?
There is no argument!
Cllr Hall also exposed Tarmac's outdated traffic assessment. Given the much higher traffic now predicted in just a year or so, let us hope the planning committee has the will to stop the huge tide of heavy gravel lorries pounding daily through our city, polluting our air.
Another 15 years of this, with gridlock looming? This is their chance to reduce the stress and aggravation of two of Chichester's three terrible Ts – Traffic, Trenches (including quarries), and Trains.

Sheila & Hugh Walker, Chichester



Not the dogs' fault - it's the owners...

I have to strongly disagree with the proposed change of law to stop people walking more than four dogs. I have only one dog, but I have been brought up with dogs and have lots of experience. It really does not make a bit of difference how many dogs are being walked at the same time – it really depends on the owner.
My dog has been attacked a few times by other dogs – each time it has been by a dog being walked on its own, with useless owner in need of some training how to handle and train their dog.
I feel this is a very unfair law. A minority of people who walk more than four dogs, which are all perfectly well behaved, are being unfairly targeted.
The council needs to concentrate on stamping out owners who have no control over their dogs. These people should be made to take compulsory training.

Kate Rush, Harbour View Road, Pagham

Please, please, please do not require dogs to be on a lead in Hotham Park. Apart from some parts of the beach (where you are limited by time and tide) there is nowhere else in Bognor where dogs can be allowed off the lead safely without the risk they will run into a road.
I walk my dog there every morning before work and after work, Monday to Friday, and apart from an occasional walker using it as a cut-through, all you will meet are other dog walkers out for their daily constitutional.
Who would use the park at this time if dogs off the lead were banned?
All the dog owners I have spoken to would have to try to find other venues and the park would be empty. What would be the point of that?
As a compromise, maybe have dogs on a lead on busy summer Saturdays and Sundays when families are out in force, but in term-time the place is empty except for the very people being pushed out.

Sally Reeves, Wick Lane, Bognor Regis

I do not take my dog into Hotham Park because of the loose dogs. Two years ago my dog was attacked by a large loose dog in the park, the owner of which was unperturbed by the incident.
My dog, who before was happy around other dogs, now is a quivering wreck near larger dogs.
I know owners with unruly dogs are in the minority, but one incident is one too many.
The park is there for everyone to enjoy, not just the dog owners who let their dogs run amok.
I would love to go back walking through the park knowing myself and my dog would enjoy the experience with all dogs on leads.

C Moore, Bognor Regis



Our seafront has been ruined by changes

Having been on a frequent jaunt along the seafront to Felpham with my family, I was somewhat saddened to see the changes being made to the once varied and vibrant seafront.
While I commend those who have invested in the new, somewhat boring and pebble-strewn promenade, I struggle to understand how the council could throw out the friendly mix of doughnut and yoghurt stands etc and replace them with what at best could be described as car-boot caterers.
We Bognorians can now boast a seafood stall selling hot dogs and soup with hardly a cockle to be seen. The empty folly near The Regis has transformed into another tea hut and nothing for kids to visit the beach for, unless you wish to sit in the rubbish and urine-infested shelters with the sandwich-munching builders and cider swiggers.
If these are the council's new exciting opportunities, then let's hope St Modwen has a change of heart and gets a move on. Bognor needs to gain some control and stop being Arun's lapdog.
Whoops... just read in the Observer that's three years further off. At least the little prom train is still running.
I can put my kids on that and stare at the empty flats already built.

J Penn, Densihale Road, Bognor Regis



Walled Garden weddings are such lovely occasions

We read the article in the Observer – Wedding proposal is causing disharmony – and would like to tell readers a little bit about our fantastic job, and what it entails.
We began working in The Walled Garden Cafe and shop at the beginning of spring last year, and have thoroughly enjoyed working throughout the summer months as well as the winter ones.
The incredible weddings we have worked at have been a highlight of our year. They are always heaving with interesting people who are always eager to know more about what we do as a business and venue.
We both began working here around the same time in spring 2008, during our GCSE exams.
We both feel this job has helped us become more independent and develop our people skills.
It is a very friendly work environment where we feel we can trust and be trusted.
From working in the cafe, we have both realised how unique the Walled Garden is and how it takes full advantage of local produce and is keen on supporting Midhurst businesses.
The weddings are a good example of this, as local caterers, florists, photographers and bands benefit, as well as many of the guests occupying Midhurst hotels, B&Bs and pubs.
Another joy of working in the beautiful walled garden and its wonderful setting is not only do we meet new people, but it has a calm and welcoming atmosphere like no other.
The weddings are a fantastic way of gaining recognition for the rural town of Midhurst, including the spectacular ruins and its historic background.
Guests from Bermuda to Nigeria to London have attended our weddings and everyone comments on the building's ambience and tranquil and secluded area.
We also want to add we have never experienced any complaints about the noise or parking during the weddings and the local residents always seem happy to oblige to any events held.
The portrayal of The Walled Garden in the article wasn't very accurate, especially as the business helps others to thrive and no negatives can occur from the weddings held here.
We hope to continue working at the weddings, and we anticipate the idea of potential acceptance for a civil service licence on the premises.
The loss of the wedding aspect would be a great shame on us, as well as Midhurst and the Cowdray estate.

Violet Ross and Florence Ambrose, Midhurst and Petworth



Potholes have been ignored for too long

Residents in West Sussex must keep up the momentum which is building on the subject of potholes in the county.
This problem has been growing for a number of years now, and the situation is so bad simply because county councillors have ignored it for too long.
I wonder how many dangerous tyres there are in use on cars on our roads?
My car has failed its past two MOTs because of a dangerous front nearside tyre caused, in all probability, by a pothole. The damage to these dangerous tyres is not easy to spot to the untrained eye, and I wonder how many accidents have already been caused by them.
Last year, the county council reimbursed me £457 for the damage to the tyre and the wheel rim, 'while not admitting any liability for negligence'. This year's MOT failure occurred last week, but I will be seeking a further payment.
It would be interesting to know how much the council has paid out for pothole damage to vehicles over each of the past three years – money (our money) which could have been better spent on repairing roads.

Antony Godson, Petworth



To the point...

Maybe Mr David Wilson, of The Chichester Society, would like to organise a collection and he could then hire the tractor driver who flattened the sign in St Pancras to do the rest in and around the city. I would gladly contribute.
Pity the council doesn't spend our money on potholes instead of signs. I spend all my driving time looking at the road surface to avoid craters and haven't time for anything else.

John Hutchings, New Park Road, Potester

It's a good job I have not got a weak heart or I would have collapsed on the spot yesterday afternoon at the checkout in a certain local supermarket.
I had a reasonable midweek size trolleyful of shopping but my bill came to £362.
I calmly pointed out it must be incorrect, and smiled inwardly when the assistant said 'that's a lot, innit?'
Well, we had the supervisor, other shoppers in the queue and the neighbouring checkout lady offering lots of 'oooohs'. Eventually the bill was checked with a fine-tooth comb and it was discovered my innocent bakery loaf (small) cost £303.67!
I wondered if perhaps 'gold grains' were used instead of granary?
However, it turned out that a wee lassie had used an incorrect barcode on the loaf – she obviously had illusions of grandeur!
Well, it gave me a laugh and they did change the bill. I am now thinking of buying ready-sliced!

Noelle Mullen, Parklands Road, Chichester

I was delighted to read Peter Homer's article about new laws or action on dogs. This must mean the death of the fox hunt for certain, the five listed offences would be breached at every hunt the moment they let the hounds out of their transport.
I have never seen a huntsman with poop scoops and holding an average of 30 hounds on a lead – it would be very entertaining.
Or will it be the usual law for the rich being different to us poor mortals?
I think the neurotic townies who don't like dogs should go back to the cities.

Jacqueline Smith, North Road, Selsey

I am a pensioner with poor eyesight and have to rely on public transport.
I needed to travel after 1.30pm and knowing the Southbourne ticket office was due to close at 1.10pm, I went to the station at 10.30am to buy a ticket, only to find it closed.
I returned home and phoned Southern customer services, who told me Southbourne is an unimportant intermediate station.
Some years ago I had the same problem and got in touch with the rail regulator who stated that if opening times of ticket offices are displayed, the company is responsible to adhere to them.
From about 4pm, there are three trains from Chichester that now don't stop at Southbourne. Then the next two do stop. Surely the trains could be spaced better, especially at a time when schoolchildren are returning home.

PA Reynolds, Manor Way, Southbourne

I read with interest the comments made by the chief executive Mark Hammond of West Sussex County Council and the drive to 'keep West Sussex working initiative' to help local businesses through the recession.
Maybe on the back of that they should review their policy adopted three years ago to appoint an American-owned, Hampshire-based recruitment consultancy (Manpower) to supply all their temporary and contract workers. The majority of this business was previously distributed among the local Chichester-based consultancies who provided a top-quality service to the local community.

Beverley Kent, managing director, Futures Recruitment Services, South Street, Chichester

What on earth was Sue Gilson banging on about in her condemnation of rugby player Danny Cipriani for 'enjoying' his career?
Isn't it wonderful there are people out there who 'enjoy' their work, at whatever level?
If there are organisations prepared to spend millions on top people – then so be it. At least it is not at the expense of the taxpayer for a change!
Sounds like Ms Gilson needs to lighten up a bit and get a life. I am sure she won't like Mamma Mia either – it's not stuffy enough for her. There's a challenge for you, Sue – try to enjoy your work and let's see the results!

Stefanie Bacon, Caledonian Road, Chichester

What an absolutely pointless and expensive exercise it would be to change the names of St Richard's and Worthing hospitals to Western Sussex Hospitals NHS Trust.
Consider the costs involved in just new signage and new stationery, and for what purpose? Both hospitals are both very well known by their existing names. What would conceivably be achieved, apart from needless expense?
One would have hoped the bureaucrat involved in making such decisions would realise the NHS could use its funds in much better ways. Sadly this is not true and reflects poorly on the quality of the hospital board.

Richard Trew, Billingshurst Road, Wisborough Green

Why do we have to put up with traffic chaos outside Tesco Express in Aldwick Road?
I am sure there is some way to get the lorries into the lay-by. I have on numerous occasions seen two lorries there at once, both parked on the road.
Surely something can be done about this?
Cars are no better – they park two deep with no regard for other motorists.
I can only assume a fatal accident will be the only way someone will do anything about it.
I will confess I actually saw a traffic warden there on one occasion. It was about 6.45 in the evening. Why not blanket it with them during peak times for a month? Perhaps then people would think twice.

Peter Day, Gilwynes Court, Aldwick

I recently attended the Alexandra Theatre to see a production of Beyond the Rainbow. It was a truly marvellous show. Credit must be given to Margaret Bristow and Sarah Wood of Rainbow for such brilliant performances.
Sarah's choreography was amazing and I thought of West End standard. The show was very family oriented both on the stage and in the audience. The energy on stage from the dancers was wonderful. The singing was superb, in particular Marilyn Howick, who had such stage presence.
May I say well done Margaret and Sarah for all your hard work. It is performances like this that make it really vital we continue to support the Alexandra Theatre so hopefully there will be many more shows like this.

C Turner, Truro Crescent, Bognor Regis

I read with interest Phil Hitchins' letter in regard to the three-year delay of St Modwen's planned regeneration of Bognor Regis.
I share the sense of disappointment for the delay. However, Mr Hitchins' suggestion of closing off the seafront does demonstrate his lack of local knowledge.
The seafront closure is part of St Modwen's proposal for the new entertainments complex, but this proposal has the opposition of CIVIC, Bognor Regis Town Council, seafront traders and various tourism-based organisations in Bognor.
The delay does provide the town with some benefits and opportunities, allowing the existing theatre to become further established and expand its activities.
In addition, St Modwen, Arun and West Sussex County Council will be able to develop alternatives to the hugely-unpopular elements of the regeneration, such as moving the library, a 30-storey tower block and hundreds more flats on the seafront. The current proposals are more like degeneration than regeneration.
I do, however, agree with Mr Hitchins' comments on opening up the High Street to two-way traffic. Conservative-controlled West Sussex has repeatedly ignored calls from the town council, the chamber of commerce and countless local residents for the pedestrianisation to be removed.
The current closure is still ignored by motorists, and continues to be a safety hazard for people.
As a potential Conservative candidate for the county elections later this year, perhaps Mr Hitchins will able to work a miracle and persuade the county council to change the scheme – but somehow I doubt it.

Francis Oppler, county councillor for Bognor Regis East, Marshall Avenue, Bognor Regis

Another disappointment. After Vinnitrow Road had been closed to traffic for improvements, I expected a wider, white-lined, safer road for the commuters, holidaymakers and the many large lorries that use this road.
No luck. And no-one with the foresight to see a few red patches on the road surface and a few white bollards will not protect the pedestrians or cyclists who use this busy thoroughfare.

Gillian Kriehn, Harbour View Road, Bognor Regis

Hotham Park Heritage Trust would like to draw attention to a misprint in the Observer of February 26.
Under an article on The Old and The New Hotham Park (page 11), a figure of £22m was stated as having been received by the trust from the Heritage Lottery Fund.
The lottery funding was in fact £2.2m, and Arun District Council gained the funding from The Heritage Lottery Fund working in partnership with Hotham Park Heritage Trust.

Rosemary Warren, chairman, Hotham Park Heritage Trust, The Lodge, Hotham Park, Bognor Regis

My seven-year-old grand-daughter had been very unwell and suffering nose bleeds. Imagine her mother's horror when blood started to seep from her eyes as well.
Upon dialling 999 I was met with a compassionate voice who spoke to us until the ambulance crew arrived.
Everyone, from the ambulance crew (Gary and Tim) and all the staff in A&E at St Richard's were fantastic. But special praise must go to children's staff nurse Emma. The compassion and care she gave to a terrified seven-year-old and her frantic mother was beyond words. I have never been so impressed.
Our thanks to Emma and all her colleagues, from the eternally-grateful Shaw family.

Gill Shaw (grandma), Downview Road, Barnham



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