Call for support in letter marking century of CPRE countryside campaigning

As the Campaign to Protect Rural England (CPRE) marks its centenary, CPRE Sussex has published an open letter warning our countryside faces unprecedented threats.

The letter highlights the dangers of climate change, nature collapse and poorly planned development and calls on everyone to love their countryside.

CPRE Sussex director Paul Steedman said: “We have already seen terrible losses in Sussex. The A27 bypasses slicing through the South Downs. The soulless sprawl of identikit, car-dependent housing estates from Billingshurst to Bexhill. Our precious chalk streams, rivers and seas polluted by greedy private companies. And further destruction is still on the cards, including the expansion of Gatwick airport, bringing yet more noise, air and climate pollution.”

CPRE’s centenary vision focuses on three things: stopping needless countryside loss, improving landscape quality and inspiring more people to enjoy and protect the countryside.

Mr Steedman added: “For a century, CPRE has been the countryside’s guardian. Without drastic action, much of what makes our countryside unique and beautiful will be lost. As we begin our centenary year, we’re sending this message to everyone: love your countryside and be part of its future. This is just the beginning – and we all have a part to play in shaping what comes next.”

To join the movement and shape a greener future for Sussex, add your name to the open letter here.