CPRE Sussex responds to devolution consultation

CPRE Sussex says the return of strategic planning is welcome but there are ‘fundamental flaws’ in proposals for a new mayoral authority.

A Sussex charity says plans to form a Mayoral Combined County Authority for Sussex and Brighton risk taking local government away from local people.

CPRE Sussex also has concerns about a ‘woeful ack of focus’ on the environment, climate mitigation and the countryside, especially nature, wildlife and ecosystems.

It does, however, welcome opportunities in the return of strategic planning on transport, energy and land use.

The charity raised its concerns in response to proposals to form a combined authority for the local government areas of East Sussex County Council, West Sussex County Council and Brighton and Hove City Council.

The charity would like to see a balanced approach to sustainable development.

See full response below.