August 2026

Stepping up action for Better Roads

Head of Local Highway Operations Michele Hulme, two Highway Rangers, Cllr Erika Woodhurst-Trueman

We’re stepping up the way we maintain highways across West Sussex to reduce the impact of extreme weather.

Our teams have repaired more than 13,200 potholes since April and are already preparing the roads for this coming winter.  

We launched our Highway Ranger pilot in Worthing this month (pictured) to take action for cleaner and better-maintained streets in communities across the county. 

Cabinet member Cllr Erika Woodhurst-Trueman said: “As a new administration we are determined to listen and act... and our teams are working throughout the year to actively maintain our roads.”

Shape a greener future

Now is your chance to help shape a greener, more resilient future for West Sussex.

Together with district and borough councils, we’ve launched a new consultation on plans for tackling climate change.

The plans focus on mitigation and adaptation and include proposals on improvements for buildings, greener travel, solar energy, and drainage systems.

Cabinet member Natasha Davie said: "Climate action cannot be delivered by councils alone. Success will depend on strong partnerships and the involvement of communities... So, I encourage everyone to have their say.”

The climate change consultation is open until 27 September 2026.

'Best possible start in life'

The team at the Adur West Family Hub in Lancing

Thousands of families are benefiting from free support provided by our Best Start Family Hubs across West Sussex.

A growing number of people are visiting the centres, which are for all families and which are managed by the council in partnership with health services.

Our Best Start teams have also strengthened their community visits, ensuring everyone can access the help on offer.

Cabinet member Cllr Sam Raby said: “By providing families with the right support at the right time, we are helping children get the best possible start in life.”

Food hub making a real difference

Residents and community partners came together at Shoreham Fire Station this month to celebrate the success of its Community Food Hub.

Launched in May, the hub is a partnership between West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service, West Sussex County Council and UK Harvest.

Cabinet member Cllr Natasha Davie said: "The hub is making a real difference by helping residents access affordable, nutritious food while reducing food waste.”

Go All In at our libraries

Dungeons and dragons, manga workshops and live-streamed author events are on the cards for young people at our libraries this autumn.

They’re just some of the activities we’re planning as part of our Go All In Festival for teenagers.

Starting in September, the festival is aimed at young people aged 13 and over.

It’s made possible thanks to National Lottery grant money from Arts Council England.

Powerful voice for Sussex businesses

Members of the Sussex & Bighton Strategic Authority Board in Lewes

Businesses will have a powerful voice in shaping decisions on the region's economy.  

A new Business Advisory Board has been approved by the Sussex & Brighton Strategic Authority.

Leader of West Sussex County Council Cllr Jay Mercer (pictured second left) is a Joint Vice-Chair of the authority.

He said: “The board will give [businesses] a direct line into the Authority’s thinking on investment, and growth and I'm delighted we are moving quickly to get it in place.” 

What are your thoughts on the future of adult social care? The Big Conversation on Care is open now nationwide. Share your views and help shape the future of care.

Help us prevent wildfires. By taking a few simple precautions, you can help protect communities, local wildlife and our firefighters.

Well done to all students getting their results this summer! Explore careers guidance and advice on emotional wellbeing.

Looking for affordable summer days out? Take the bus! Children aged 5 to 15 can travel for free on participating bus services this August.

Our Fire & Rescue Service visits around 5,000 homes in West Sussex every year to help prevent fires. Request a free Safe and Well visit.

Know Your Numbers! Check your blood pressure at home with a free-to-borrow monitor from your local library in West Sussex.

Call the Shots on Alcohol whether you want to cut back, understand your drinking or make a few small changes, find free, practical support to help you at your own pace.

A MenB vaccine is available to eligible young people. Book a free vaccination online or find a participating pharmacy walk-in service for a limited time.

Activate with Joe Wicks Children are being inspired to move more with an animated series for kids from fitness coach Joe Wicks. Find it on BBC iPlayer and YouTube.

94 tonnes of waste diverted. A total of £50,000 was awarded to 10 groups across West Sussex for innovative repair, reuse and waste prevention projects.

£166,000 invested in bus shelter improvements between Littlehampton and Chichester.

Thousands attended Chichester’s Emergency Services, Armed Forces and Community Day. The family-friendly event welcomed visitors of all ages.

Fairer funding for West Sussex schools County councillors have backed action to call on national government to address the financial pressures on our schools. 

The Sussex & Brighton Strategic Authority has secured £564,000 to explore how bus services across the region could be improved.

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