Andrew Griffith MP

Member of Parliament for Arundel and South Downs

Applications to support off-grid energy users

February may be a short month, but it is nonetheless a busy one. In particular, there have been some very positive developments for rural communities over the past four weeks. Applications have just launched for a scheme to support off-grid energy users, ensuring that those who do not already benefit from £400 in government energy help won’t be left miss out on the Government’s support package.

Planning Policy consultation

Additionally, for the many of us that marvel at the natural beauty of the South Downs and our countryside, there has been an important chance to raise concerns about unsuitable development and protection of green field land. The Government’s National Planning Policy Framework consultation closed in early March, and I have encouraged everyone to have their say. I have set out my own views that development should be very rigorously ‘brownfield first’ and that new houses should only be built in areas which already have the right physical infrastructure and capacity in local services such as schools and dentists.

Potholes - please report them!

I understand the frustration of residents over the proliferation of potholes caused by the unusual ‘freeze-and-thaw’ weather we experienced this winter. Some are remarkably deep. Having raised this with the leader of the County Council and the Cabinet Member for Highways, I know that very substantial efforts are being undertaken to fix reported potholes. But that is the key thing: they must be reported! The County Council doesn’t have eyes everywhere, so please do report potholes via my website: andrewgriffithmp.com/ potholes

I look forward to the work of the month to come and the Spring Budget. It is my privilege to represent you in West Sussex and in Westminster.

Andrew Griffith MP for Arundel & South Downs

Andrew.Griffith.MP@parliament.uk www.andrewgriffithmp.com