Labour have yet again delayed the reorganisation of Sussex councils… Last week, I spoke in the chamber urgently on my dismay at the dithering and delay taking place in Government regarding our Sussex Councils and the frustration from constituents. With no sign of the promised mayoralty and the delay in that election this May- I’m at a loss on anything positive to say about this gerrymandering.
The history of our town counties - East and West Sussex and the services we need are, at risk by the lack of clarity on what we’re actually getting. My speech and views can be found here and my letter to the Secretary of State -calling it all out https://www.mimsdavies.org.uk/news/mims-davies-mp-speaks-chamber-dither-and-delay-labour-local-council-reorganisation
I joined Govia Thameslink Railway (GTR) in Parliament sharing your ongoing frustrations and concerns. It was really useful to be able to pass this on and push improvements. Thank you also to everyone who has taken the time to complete my quick online survey sharing your train experiences.
Some good news for those meanwhile taking East Grinstead trains over Easter - you may have seen on my social media pages I’ve shared there’s an increase to off peak services running between Monday 30th March - Friday 10th April with a consistent half hourly, all day service on the East Grinstead to London Victoria route. Eight additional trains will run between Monday and Wednesday, bringing these days in line with the half hourly service already offered for the remainder of the week. Vital flexibility for leisure travel and later starts throughout the Easter holidays.
Frankly it’s what we need and deserve for the town and shows it’s possible and reasonable for this company to run more trains. It follows on a round table at Gatwick a few weeks back where we talked about the future of the services post nationalisation, what our economy needs and why Sussex needs to be seen as powerhouse for jobs, in its own right.
It was back in February, I followed up improved access arrangements at Wivelsfield station via the All Access Programme with Lord Hendy of Richmond Hill, Minister of State for Transport, but yet no response… I’ll keep you updated. The deal on what is happening is being politicised by other parties and I just want answers for my residents and businesses.
Switching to cars – MSDC confirm evening parking charges in East Grinstead town centre car parks from 6pm – 8pm will not apply from the 11th May and charges will revert to 8am – 6pm Monday - Saturday and 9am – 5pm on Sundays. Due to legal processes to follow, unfortunately it can’t be changed any sooner.
It’s been hard fought by my Conservative district councillors after strong feedback from businesses in East Grinstead on unacceptable impact and also from residents in the town with limited off-street parking. It’s vital the Councils’ muted targeting village car parks for costs is resisted. Free car parking in Uckfield keeps the town thriving and we need the same for others.
Have a lovely Easter and enjoy all our wonderful constituency is offering. I am regularly post on my Facebook stories events happening nearby for the family, or to enjoy solo, so be sure to check my page!
