& Bracklesham Neighbourhood Plan

Stage 1 Report – Part B: Community Evidence

Published by East Wittering & Bracklesham Parish Council October 2014

1

East Wittering and Bracklesham Neighbourhood Plan –

Stage 1 Report: Part B Community Evidence

East Wittering & Bracklesham Neighbourhood Plan

Draft Stage 1 Report – Part B: Community Evidence October 2014

Contents 1 Introduction ...... 4

2 Parish Character ...... 6

3 Selected Parish Statistics ...... 7

3.1 Demographics ...... 7

3.2 Economic status of residents ...... 8

3.3 Occupations ...... 8

3.4 Qualifications & Skills ...... 9

3.5 Industry of employment ...... 10

3.6 Housing ...... 11

3.7 Transport ...... 11

3.8 Health ...... 12

3.9 Biodiversity ...... 12

4 Community Engagement ...... 14

5 Community Survey ...... 16

6 Community Views ...... 24

7 Contributions from Neighbourhood Plan Thematic Groups ...... 25

2

East Wittering and Bracklesham Neighbourhood Plan –

Stage 1 Report: Part B Community Evidence

This page is intentionally left blank

3

East Wittering and Bracklesham Neighbourhood Plan –

Stage 1 Report: Part B Community Evidence

1 Introduction

1.1 This report has been compiled jointly by East Wittering & Bracklesham Parish Council and East Wittering & Bracklesham Neighbourhood Plan Steering Group, Action in rural and rCOH Planning Consultants.

1.2 It is one of two reports (produced simultaneously) whose purpose is to provide an overview of the information and evidence which has been gathered by the above organisations as the first stage in the development of the Neighbourhood Plan.

1.3 The reporting at this stage has been separated into two distinct but inter- related documents. One of the documents (Part A) focuses on the planning policy context of the Plan area and the other (Part B) on the community engagement and evidence gathering activity which has occurred. Together these combine to provide the initial evidence framework within which the key issues affecting the Plan area may be identified.

1.4 Stage 1 Report - Part A – Provides an overview of the policy planning context for the designated Neighbourhood Plan area together with a brief summary of the priority issues identified through the community engagement and consultation process. More detail on the specific nature of the evidence which has been gathered and the approaches which have been employed to gather this information is set out in the Part B document.

1.5 Stage 1 Report - Part B – Focuses on outlining the community engagement and evidence gathering activity which has been undertaken to date. This provides a statistical summary of the Plan area, sets out the information gathered by the Neighbourhood Plan Steering Group and any sub-groups and provides details on consultations such as open days, community surveys and stakeholder events.

1.6 Purpose of these reports: The purpose of the Stage 1 Reports is to provide a comprehensive summary record of the extensive work which has been undertaken as part of the initial phase of developing the Neighbourhood Development Plan. These provide the context against which a baseline of understanding may be developed, thereby allowing the identification of the existing and emerging issues which the Neighbourhood Plan should seek to address.

1.7 Function of these reports: These reports outline the approaches which have been taken in order to gather information about the locality, their functions are to:

 Outline what the Neighbourhood Plan can and cannot realistically achieve; 4

East Wittering and Bracklesham Neighbourhood Plan –

Stage 1 Report: Part B Community Evidence  Provide a summary of the activity undertaken and information captured as part of the first phase of the Plan’s development;  Ensure that those living in or adjacent to the designated Neighbourhood Plan area are made aware of the key issues identified in the first phase of consultation;  To provide residents, stakeholders and statutory partners with robust evidence and a summary of the key issues in order to guide their future contributions to the Plan process;  The information contained within the two report documents will be used as the basis for further consultation with the community, key stakeholders (including landowners, statutory bodies and utilities) and the Local Planning Authority in order to establish how the challenges identified may be responded to by the Neighbourhood Plan.

5

East Wittering and Bracklesham Neighbourhood Plan –

Stage 1 Report: Part B Community Evidence 2 Parish Character

2.1 The Parish of East Wittering & Bracklesham is located on the in the south western corner of District in . Its southern boundary meets the English Channel, with the parishes of to the west, to the east and to the north. The village of East Wittering is approximately 7 miles south of the city of Chichester and 12 miles west of Bognor Regis, both of which represent the closest major centres of employment, shops and services.

2.2 A small parish in terms of land area, it contains (large portions of) two settlements; East Wittering and Bracklesham, with the vast majority of housing and development located in its southern third adjacent to the coast. This includes the Parish church, Primary school together with most of the shops and services. The village of East Wittering has largely expanded in a westerly direction and now a portion of it falls within the parish of West Wittering located to the west. The northern two-thirds of East Wittering Parish are far less developed but remain as high quality agricultural land.

2.3 Due to its location on the extremity of the Manhood peninsula, combined with a lack of an A road or rail line, the settlements of the parish are relatively isolated and this tends to make the area popular with retirees or those seeking quiet lifestyles, rather than commuters. Much of the land to the north is used for arable farming thus adding to the attractive quiet lifestyle enjoyed by so many retirees. One of the major implications of its geographical location is that due to the lack of a secondary school in the parish or elsewhere on the peninsula, those requiring to attend such institutions are forced to travel quite a distance to do so (to Chichester or ), largely via bus or private transport. Similarly, those seeking to commute out of the area or access shops and services in nearby settlements are largely forced to rely on their own means of transport.

2.4 The beaches of the Manhood Peninsula, particularly those adjacent to East Wittering and Bracklesham, are extremely popular amongst the surfing fraternity and businesses servicing the needs of this group and others utilising the coastline and landscape form a core of those located in East Wittering. Its popularity as both a holiday and visitor destination means that there are large numbers of static and mobile caravans in the Parish and in adjoining parishes.

2.5 The population more than doubles during the holiday season, which is essential for the survival of many local shops and businesses. All of this leads to increase pressure on the infrastructure of the parish and beyond e.g. roads and sewage. The commercial centre of East Wittering and Bracklesham also serves the holiday makers from adjoining parishes.

6

East Wittering and Bracklesham Neighbourhood Plan –

Stage 1 Report: Part B Community Evidence 3 Selected Parish Statistics

The following statistics and evidence are primarily drawn from the 2011 Census. These are used to provide an overview of the current status of the community. Other sources of data or information are acknowledged where applicable.

3.1 Demographics

The usual resident population of the Parish is 4,658 people (2,216 male, 2,442 female). Of these:

 709 People aged 15 and under (15.2% of Parish population compared to 16.5% across the District and 19% across )  2,613 People aged 16 to 64 (56.1% of parish population compared to 59.1% across the District and 65% across England)  1336 People aged 65 and over (28.7% of Parish population compared to 24.4% across the District and 16% across England)

Table 1 - Age structure of Parish

Age band Parish Figure 2011 District Figure 2011

(number and %) (number and %) 0 to 4 240 (5.2%) 5,652 (5.0%) 5 to 7 130 (2.8%) 3,375 (3.0%) 8 to 9 58 (1.2%) 2,255 (2.0%) 10 to 14 232 (5.0%) 6,092 (5.4%) 15 49 (1.1%) 1,259 (1.1%) 16 to 17 96 (2.1%) 2,368 (2.1%) 18 to 19 91 (2.0%) 2,890 (2.5%) 20 to 24 218 (4.7%) 6,200 (5.4%) 25 to 29 198 (4.3%) 5,150 (4.5%) 30 to 44 719 (15.4%) 18,823 (16.5%) 45 to 59 915 (19.6%) 23,286 (20.5%) 60 to 64 376 (8.1%) 8,550 (7.5%) 65 to 74 619 (13.3%) 13,770 (12.1%) 75 to 84 475 (10.2%) 9,832 (8.6%) 85 to 89 153 (3.3%) 2,761 (2.4%) 90 and over 89 (1.9%) 1,531 (1.3%) All Usual Residents 4,658 113,794

7

East Wittering and Bracklesham Neighbourhood Plan –

Stage 1 Report: Part B Community Evidence 3.2 Economic status of residents1

Of the 4,658 usual residents of the Parish, 3,232 were aged between 16 and 74 (69.4%).  2,179 (67.4%) of whom were economically active*: o 1,028 were Employed full-time (32.7% compared to 34.4% across the District) o 497 were Employed part-time (15.4% compared to 14.0% across the District) o 472 were Self-employed (14.6% compared to 14.5% across the District) o 99 were Unemployed (3.1% compared to 2.8% across the District) o 83 were Full-time students (2.6% compared to 3.5% across the District)

*Economically Active - All people usually resident in the area at the time of the 2011 Census aged 16 to 74 and who were economically active (either in employment, or not in employment but seeking work and ready to start work within two weeks, or waiting to start a job already obtained). As defined by ONS (2014).

 1,053 (32.6%) of whom were economically inactive*: o 721 were Retired (22.3% compared to 18.2% across the District) o 105 were Students (0.3% compared to 4.4% across the District) o 120 were Looking after home or family (3.7% compared to 4.2% across the District) o 71 were Long-term sick or disabled (2.2% compared to 2.4% across the District) o 36 were classified as Other (1.1% compared to 1.5% across the District)

*Economically Inactive - All people usually resident in the area at the time of the 2011 Census aged 16 to 74, who were economically inactive (anyone who was not in employment and did not meet the criteria to be classified as unemployed). As defined by ONS (2014).

3.3 Occupations2

 Of the 2,064 residents in the Parish in employment and aged between 16 and 74: o 286 were Managers, Directors and Senior Officials (13.8% compared to 14.2% across the District). o 257 were Professional Occupations (12.4% compared to 18.7% across the District).

1 http://www.neighbourhood.statistics.gov.uk/dissemination/LeadTableView.do?a=7&b=11123024&c=ea st+wittering&d=16&e=62&g=6473680&i=1001x1003x1032x1004&m=0&r=1&s=1409737124675&enc= 1&dsFamilyId=2484 2 http://www.neighbourhood.statistics.gov.uk/dissemination/LeadTableView.do?a=7&b=11123024&c=ea st+wittering&d=16&e=62&g=6473680&i=1001x1003x1032x1004&m=0&r=1&s=1409737124675&enc= 1&dsFamilyId=2541 8

East Wittering and Bracklesham Neighbourhood Plan –

Stage 1 Report: Part B Community Evidence o 226 were Associate Professional and Technical Occupations (10.9% compared to 13.1% across the District). o 219 were Administrative and Secretarial Occupations (10.6% compared to 9.8% across the District). o 330 were Skilled Trades Occupations (11.6% compared to 15.9% across the District). o 225 were Caring, Leisure and Other Service Occupations (10.8% compared to 9.7% across the District). o 172 were Sales and Customer Service Occupations (8.3% compared to 7.0% across the District). o 99 were Process, Plant and Machine Operatives (4.8% compared to 4.6% across the District). o 250 were in Elementary Occupations (12.1% compared to 10.0% across the District).

3.4 Qualifications & Skills3

 Of the 3,949 usual residents in the Parish aged 16 and over: o 1,056 possessed no qualifications (26.7% compared to 19.5% across the District). o 547 possessed Level 1 qualifications4 (13.9% compared to 11.6% across the District). o 648 possessed Level 2 qualifications5 (16.4% compared to 15.9% across the District). o 207 possessed Apprenticeship qualifications6 (5.2% compared to 3.4% across the District). o 386 possessed Level 3 qualifications7 (9.8% compared to 12.8% across the District). o 917 possessed Level 4 and above qualifications8 (23.2% compared to 32.4% across the District).

3 http://www.neighbourhood.statistics.gov.uk/dissemination/LeadTableView.do?a=7&b=11123024&c=ea st+wittering&d=16&e=62&g=6473680&i=1001x1003x1032x1004&m=0&r=1&s=1409737124675&enc= 1&dsFamilyId=2536 4 Level 1 qualifications cover: 1-4 O Levels/CSE/GCSEs (any grades), Entry Level, Foundation Diploma, NVQ level 1, Foundation GNVQ, Basic/Essential Skills. 5 Level 2 qualifications cover: 5+ O Level (Passes)/CSEs (Grade 1)/GCSEs (Grades A*-C), School Certificate, 1 A Level/ 2-3 AS Levels/VCEs, Intermediate/Higher Diploma, Welsh Baccalaureate Intermediate Diploma, NVQ level 2, Intermediate GNVQ, City and Guilds Craft, BTEC First/General Diploma, RSA Diploma 13 Apprenticeship. 6 All people usually resident in the area at the time of the 2011 Census aged 16 and over whose highest qualification attained was Apprenticeship. 7 Level 3 Qualifications cover: 2+ A Levels/VCEs, 4+ AS Levels, Higher School Certificate, Progression/Advanced Diploma, Welsh Baccalaureate Advance Diploma, NVQ Level 3; Advanced GNVQ, City and Guilds Advanced Craft, ONC, OND, BTEC National, RSA Advanced Diploma. 8 Level 4 and above qualifications cover: Degree (BA, BSc), Higher Degree (MA, PhD, PGCE), NVQ Level 4- 5, HNC, HND, RSA Higher Diploma, BTEC Higher level, Professional Qualifications (Teaching, Nursing, Accountancy). 9

East Wittering and Bracklesham Neighbourhood Plan –

Stage 1 Report: Part B Community Evidence o 188 possessed Other qualifications9 (4.8% compared to 4.4% across the District).

3.5 Industry of employment10

 The 2,064 usual residents aged between 16 and 74 in employment are employed in the following industries:

Table 2 - Industry of Employment

Industry Parish Figure District Figure 2011 2011

(number and (number %) and %) Agriculture, Forestry and Fishing 28 (1.4%) 1,141 (2.1%) Mining and Quarrying 1 (0.05%) 49 (0.1%) Manufacturing 157 (7.6%) 3,830 (7.2%) Electricity, Gas, Steam and Air 2 (0.1%) 148 (0.3%) Conditioning Supply Water Supply 9 (0.4%) 248 (0.5%) Construction 188 (9.1%) 4,189 (7.9%) Wholesale & Retail Trade 367 (17.8%) 8,098 (15.2%) Transport & Storage 70 (3.4%) 1,774 (3.3%) Accommodation and Food Service 215 (10.4%) 3,424 (6.4%) Activities Information and Communication 60 (2.9%) 2,098 (3.9%) Financial and Insurance Activities 38 (1.8%) 1,633 (3.1%) Real Estate Activities 44 (2.1%) 1,085 (2.0%) Professional, Scientific and Technical 113 (5.5%) 3,869 (7.3%) Activities Administrative and Support Service 106 (5.1%) 2,738 (5.1%) Activities Public Administration and Defence 87 (4.2%) 3,262 (6.1%) Education 170 (8.2%) 5,452 (10.2%) Human Health and Social Activities Work 305 (14.8%) 7,101 (13.3%) Arts, Entertainment and Recreation 100 (4.8%) 2,957 (5.5%) Activities of Householders as employers 3 (0.2%) 177 (0.3%) Activities of Extraterritorial Organisations 1 (0.05%) 12 (0.02%) and Bodies

9 Vocational/Work-related Qualifications, Foreign Qualifications (Not stated/ level unknown). 10 http://www.neighbourhood.statistics.gov.uk/dissemination/LeadTableView.do?a=7&b=11123024&c=ea st+wittering&d=16&e=62&g=6473680&i=1001x1003x1032x1004&m=0&r=1&s=1409737124675&enc= 1&dsFamilyId=2538 10

East Wittering and Bracklesham Neighbourhood Plan –

Stage 1 Report: Part B Community Evidence

3.6 Housing11

 There are 2,083 households* located within the Parish.  913 were Owner-occupied households, owned outright (43.8% compared to 40.5% across the District)  560 were owned with a mortgage or loan (26.9% compared to 26.6% across the District).  32 were Shared Ownership (1.5% compared to 0.9% across the District).  18 were Social Rented from Council (0.9% compared to 2.2% across the District).  189 were Social Rented Other (9.1% compared to 12.7% across the District).  337 were Privately rented (16.2% compared to 14.9% across the District).  34 households were living rent-free (1.6% compared to 2.2% across the District).

*A household is defined as one person living alone, or a group of people (not necessarily related) living at the same address who share cooking facilities and share a living room, sitting room or dining area. As defined by ONS (2014).

 There are 2,411 dwellings* located within the Parish.  1,124 were Detached (46.6% compared to 37.4% across the District)  514 were Semi-detached (21.3% compared to 27.3% across the District)  307 were Terraced (12.7% compared to 18.4% across the District)  447 were Flats/apartments (18.5% compared to 16.1% across the District)  19 were Caravans or other Mobile or Temporary Structures (0.8% compared to 0.9% across the District) *A dwelling is a unit of accommodation with all rooms, including kitchen, bathroom and toilet behind a door that only that household can use. As defined by ONS (2014).

3.7 Transport12

Of the 2,083 households:

 368 households had no car or van (17.7% compared to 15.6% across District and 25.8% across England)

11 http://www.neighbourhood.statistics.gov.uk/dissemination/LeadTableView.do?a=7&b=11123024&c=ea st+wittering&d=16&e=62&g=6473680&i=1001x1003x1032x1004&m=0&r=1&s=1409737124675&enc= 1&dsFamilyId=2482 12 http://www.neighbourhood.statistics.gov.uk/dissemination/LeadTableView.do?a=7&b=11123024&c=ea st+wittering&d=16&e=62&g=6473680&i=1001x1003x1032x1004&m=0&r=1&s=1409737124675&enc= 1&dsFamilyId=2483 11

East Wittering and Bracklesham Neighbourhood Plan –

Stage 1 Report: Part B Community Evidence  914 households had 1 car or van (43.9% compared to 42.0% across District and 25.8% across England)  601 households had 2 cars or vans (28.9% compared to 15.6% across District and 30.8% across England)  136 households had 3 cars or vans (6.5% compared to 8.0% across District and 25.8% across England)  64 households had 4 or more cars or vans (3.1% compared to 3.6% across the District and 32.1% across England)

3.8 Health13

Of The 4,658 usual residents of the Parish were classified as having the following health status:

o 1,995 were in Very Good health (42.8% compared to 47.6% across the District) o 1,609 were in Good health (34.5% compared to 34.9% across the District) o 774 were in Fair health (16.6% compared to 13.1% across the District) o 213 were in Bad health (4.5% compared to 3.4% across the District) o 67 were in Very Bad health (1.4% compared to 1.0% across the District)

3.9 Biodiversity14

 The Site of Special Scientific Interest exists within the Parish, making up its full southern boundary adjacent to the English Channel.  No Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty exist within the Parish  No Local Nature Reserves exist within the Parish  The Parish contains areas identified by Natural England as Priority Habitats and are subject to Habitat Action Plans: o One area of Traditional Orchard Priority Habitat located north east of Glen nurseries in the northern part of the Parish.  None of the Parishes land area is subject to an Environmental Stewardship Agreement.  A small area of land is in Woodland Grant Scheme 3 and makes up the northern and eastern boundaries of the playing field in Bracklesham.

The English Heritage classification of Listed Buildings shows that the Parish of East Wittering & Bracklesham contains the following Grade II listed buildings and structures including:

 EAST WITTERING WINDMILL, CHURCH ROAD,

13 http://www.neighbourhood.statistics.gov.uk/dissemination/LeadTableView.do?a=7&b=11123024&c=ea st+wittering&d=16&e=61&g=6473680&i=1001x1003x1032x1004&m=0&r=1&s=1409737296863&enc= 1&dsFamilyId=2503 14 http://magic.defra.gov.uk/ 12

East Wittering and Bracklesham Neighbourhood Plan –

Stage 1 Report: Part B Community Evidence EAST WITTERING, Chichester, West Sussex

 CLIFFORDS COTTAGE RESTAURANT, BRACKLESHAM LANE, BRACKLESHAM, Chichester, West Sussex

 THE THATCHED TAVERN, CHURCH ROAD, EAST WITTERING, Chichester, West Sussex

 REGENCY HOUSE, CLAYTON LANE,  BRACKLESHAM, Chichester, West Sussex

Grade II* Listed:

 CHURCH OF THE ASSUMPTION OF ST MARY THE VIRGIN, CHURCH FARM LANE, East Wittering, Chichester, West Sussex

Scheduled Monuments

 None exist in the Parish.

Registered Parks and Gardens

 None exist in the Parish.

13

East Wittering and Bracklesham Neighbourhood Plan –

Stage 1 Report: Part B Community Evidence 4 Community Engagement

4.1 The prime objective of the Steering Group has been to extensively consult the community and local organisations on a wide range of issues that will influence the well-being, sustainability and long term preservation of their rural community to ensure that the views and plans contained in this document reflect the majority of residents of the Parish.

4.2 The Parish Council applied for designation of the Neighbourhood Plan Area and received approval from the local planning authority ( Council) in September 2013.

4.3 To get stakeholders on board, and ensure that the local economy would benefit from the process, an invitation was sent out to local groups and societies, businesses, and adjoining parishes of West Wittering, Birdham, Earnley and , to attend a meeting in August 2013. A short presentation on Neighbourhood Planning in general was delivered by Rowena Tyler of Action in rural Sussex, and then over light refreshments, there was ample opportunity to ask questions, read the literature provided and also register an interest in helping to take the plan forward.

4.4 From this, a contact database was compiled, and the Parish Council formed a Steering Group, with one co-opted member of the public who had expressed an interest in joining, and who had valuable contacts with the local school and other areas of the community.

4.5 A marketing and branding strategy was agreed, and banners, posters and flyers were commissioned to help promote any events throughout the process.

4.6 During 2014, a number of community engagement events and activities took place, including:

4.7 12th April – A public meeting at the Bracklesham Barn, with presentations running throughout the day on Neighbourhood planning, and exhibition stands manned by the focus groups showing the work done to date.

4.8 17th July – a stand at the Fun Day, where about 140 people visited and had the opportunity to look at literature, and ask questions about the Neighbourhood Plan, as well as give their views.

4.9 Social Networking sites such as a Facebook page, and a Twitter Feed, both of which were well received, and were an ideal way to promote events and get people to comment quickly.

4.10 1st August A household survey, sent to all residents, and promoted via the social networking, posters, newsletter article, and drop boxes placed around the village. 1850 copies of the survey were delivered and a further 100 collected from

14

East Wittering and Bracklesham Neighbourhood Plan –

Stage 1 Report: Part B Community Evidence the parish office and library or downloaded from the Parish Council website. 403 copies of the survey were completed and returned for analysis.

15

East Wittering and Bracklesham Neighbourhood Plan –

Stage 1 Report: Part B Community Evidence

5 Community Survey

5.1 As part of the process of consulting with residents over the development of the Neighbourhood Plan, the Steering Group developed and undertook a survey in order to gather opinions and views on the issues which the document should prioritise.

5.2 The survey was conducted using a questionnaire consisting of both closed and open-ended questions. This mix allows questions to focus on obtaining specific pieces of information tailored at responding to certain issues or themes (closed questions), whilst allowing a degree of freedom in the responses which people provide (open questions).

5.3 It is important to support objective information with contextual and subjective reasoning in order to fully understand certain issues and to allow people to explain their reasoning or preferences.

5.4 A total of 1,850 survey forms were delivered to each household in East Wittering and Bracklesham Parish with an additional 100 forms collected by hand from Parish Office and Library or downloaded from the Parish Council website. Residents were asked to return their forms to various collection points in the Parish by 25th August 2014 so that the results could be analysed.

5.5 A total of 403 responses were received to the survey. This represents a response rate to the survey of 20.7%.

5.6 The Parish Council have published the outcome of the survey in a separate document but a summary of the key findings is included below:

5.7 Actual response figures and percentage breakdowns are provided for each question. These represent the number of responses received in relation to each answer as a proportion of all those responding to that particular question. This may not reflect the total number of responses received to the entire survey.

5.8 Please note – Not all of the respondents provided answers to all of the questions; therefore the numbers of responses for each question will not necessarily match the total number of respondents. Similarly, some questions allowed more than one answer to be provided (i.e. tick all that apply) and may again not tally with the total number of respondents to the survey. In addition, not all percentages may round up to 100.0% due to rounding.

5.9 Where respondents were allowed to provide more than one response in answering a question, the percentages shown represent the number of responses for each answer as a % of the total number of respondents to the question, not the total number of responses.

16

East Wittering and Bracklesham Neighbourhood Plan –

Stage 1 Report: Part B Community Evidence

Consequently, percentages may add up to more than 100%.

5.10 Open-ended responses are provided in individual appendices at the end of the report. These comments are taken unaltered from the survey forms. Links to the appropriate appendix are provided next to each question. Please note that due to illegible or indecipherable handwriting, these are on occasion best guess interpretations.

5.11 The greatest number of those responding (112 or 47.9%) live in East Wittering, whilst 111 (47.4%) live in Bracklesham, 6 (2.6%) live in West Wittering and 5 (2.1%) live in Earnley.

5.12 The greatest number of those responding (167 or 42.1%) had lived in the Parish of East Wittering and Bracklesham for 20 or more years, whilst 100 (25.2%) had there for between 11 and 20 years, 55 (13.9%) for between 6 and 10 years, 73 (18.4%) for between 0 and 5 years and 2 (0.5%) were there on holiday.

5.13 Approaching half of those responding (169 or 42.8%) were aged between 61 and 75, whilst 84 (21.3%) were aged between 46 and 60, 66 (16.7%) were aged between 76 and 85, 46 (11.6%) were aged between 31 and 45, 16 (4.1%) were aged 85 and over, 11 (2.8%) were aged between 19 and 30 and 3 (0.8%) were aged 18 and under.

5.14 When asked how residents would like to see the villages develop over the next 15 years:

o 249 (70.1%) would like to see more leisure facilities, whilst 106 (29.9%) would not; o 136 (38.5%) would like to see more shops, whilst 217 (61.5%) would not; o 143 (42.9%) would like to see more businesses, whilst 190 (57.1% would not.

5.15 With regard to types of housing which could be developed in the Parish over the next 15 years:

o The housing types identified by the greatest proportion of respondents as being required were: 1-2 bedroom dwellings (115 or 35.1%), Bungalows (88 or 26.2%) and Warden Assisted Dwellings (114 or 33.5%). o The housing types identified by the greatest proportion of respondents as not being required were: Flats (134 or 44.7%), 3-4 bedroom dwellings (86 or 26.8%), 5+ bedroom dwellings (218 or 73.4%) and Detached homes (118 or 38.8%). o The housing types identified by the greatest proportion of respondents as potentially being required were: Semi-detached housing (91 or 29.8%).

5.16 In siting new housing developments:

o An overwhelming majority (340 or 90.7%) disagreed with the proposal that ‘Homes could be built on what are now green open spaces’, whilst 25 (6.7%) did not mind and 10 (2.7%) agreed with the proposal. o Just over half of those responding (192 or 51.9%) disagreed with the proposal that ‘Homes could be built on part of a Garden’, whilst 131 (35.4%) did not mind and 47 (12.7%) agreed with the proposal.

17

East Wittering and Bracklesham Neighbourhood Plan –

Stage 1 Report: Part B Community Evidence

o Just over three-quarters of those responding (310 or 79.1%) agreed with the proposal that ‘Homes could be built on plots from the demolition of a previous building’, whilst 60 (15.3%) did not mind and 22 (5.6%) disagreed with the proposal. o The greatest number of those responding (144 or 38.3%) disagreed with the proposal that ‘Shops or businesses could be converted to residential use’, whilst 129 (34.3%) agreed with the proposal and 103 (27.4%) did not mind.

5.17 In terms of the materials and styles of any future developments:

o Just over three quarters (322 or 85.2%) agreed that ‘Materials should harmonise with neighbouring buildings’, whilst 50 (13.2%) did not mind and 6 (1.6%) disagreed. o Just over three quarters (286 or 77.5%) agreed that ‘New buildings should reflect the character of existing buildings’, whilst 72 (19.5%) did not mind and 11 (3.0%) disagreed. o Approaching half of those responding (154 or 42.8%) disagreed that ‘New buildings should use modern architectural styles and materials’, whilst 137 (38.1%) did not mind and 69 (19.2%) agreed.

5.18 In terms of the type of development which the Neighbourhood Plan should support:

o An overwhelming majority (302 or 90.1%) indicated ‘No’ to ‘One large development (over 25 homes)’, whilst 21 (6.3%) indicated ‘Did not mind’ and 12 (3.6%) indicated ‘Yes’. o Just over half of those responding (184 or 55.8%) indicated ‘No’ to ‘A few medium sized developments (10-25 homes)’, whilst 69 (20.9%) indicated ‘Did not mind’ and 77 (23.3%) indicated ‘Yes’. o Just over half of those responding (198 or 57.1%) indicated ‘Yes’ to ‘Several small developments (less than 10 homes)’, whilst 84 (25.0%) indicated ‘Did not mind’ and 63 (18.2%) indicated ‘No’. o Just over half of those responding (195 or 58.0%) indicated ‘Yes’ to ‘Individual Homes’, whilst 84 (25.0%) indicated ‘Did not mind’ and 57 (17.0%) indicated ‘No’. o The greatest number (150 or 40.8%) indicated ‘Yes’ to ‘A mixture of both small and medium developments’, whilst 90 (24.5%) ‘Did not mind’ and 128 (34.8%) indicated ‘No’.

5.19 An overwhelming majority of those responding (393 or 98.5%) indicated that they agreed that new buildings should have adequate parking within their plot to avoid an increase in on road parking, whilst 6 (1.5%) did not mind and 0 (0.0%) indicated they disagreed.

5.20 With regard to the height and density of any new development:

o Just over three quarters of those responding (322 or 84.7%) indicated that they Agreed that ‘New buildings should not be more than two storeys’, whilst 43 (11.3%) did not mind and 15 (3.9%) disagreed. 18

East Wittering and Bracklesham Neighbourhood Plan –

Stage 1 Report: Part B Community Evidence

o Just over half of those responding (176 or 54.0%) indicated that they Disagreed that ‘New buildings should be no more than three storeys’, whilst 111 (34.0%) Agreed and 39 (12.0%) did not mind. o Approaching three quarters of those responding (245 or 71.0%) indicated that they Disagreed that ‘Houses should be built closer together’, whilst 69 (20.0%) did not mind and 31 (9.0%) agreed. o Just over half of those responding (173 or 50.1%) indicated that Agreed that ‘New blocks of flats should only be built near to existing blocks’, whilst 89 (25.8%) Disagreed and 83 (24.1%) did not mind.

5.21 In terms of those buildings or pieces of land which respondents wished to see designated as Assets of Community Value in the Neighbourhood Plan, the following levels of support were indicated:

o 225 (63.7% of those responding) indicated that they agreed that The Thatched Tavern should be registered, whilst 84 (23.8%) did not mind and 44 (12.5% disagreed). o 209 (60.8% of those responding) indicated that they Agreed that The Old Mill, Church Road should be registered, whilst 97 (28.2%) did not mind and 38 (11.0%) disagreed. o 226 (63.5% of those responding) indicated that they agreed that Clifford’s Cottage should be registered, whilst 95 (26.7%) did not mind and 35 (9.8%) disagreed. o 210 (59.2% of those responding) indicated that they agreed that Ingol Cottage should be registered, whilst 100 (28.2%) did not mind and 45 (12.7%) disagreed. o 160 (47.8% of those responding) indicated that they agreed that Nappers, Shore Road should be registered, whilst 140 (41.8%) did not mind and 35 (10.4%) disagreed. o 175 (51.8% of those responding) indicated that they agreed that The Galleon, Shore Road should be registered, whilst 118 (34.9%) did not mind and 45 (13.3%) disagreed.

NB Certain types of land, most notably residential property, are exempt from being placed on the register. Owners of property placed on the register may appeal against its listing and can claim compensation if they can demonstrate that its value has been reduced. Also certain types of transfer of land or assets do not count as disposal for the purposes of legislation. (House of Commons Library: Localism Act: Assets of Community Value. Updated 1st August 2013).

5.22 With regard to development associated with the Beach:

o 345 respondents (89.8%) agreed that ‘The beach should be protected by prohibiting developments of large buildings which will overlook it’, whilst 29 (7.6%) did not mind and 10 (2.6%) disagreed. o 261 respondents (68.9%) agreed that ‘There should be better access to the beach for all users’, whilst 69 (18.2%) did not mind and 49 (12.9%) disagreed. 19

East Wittering and Bracklesham Neighbourhood Plan –

Stage 1 Report: Part B Community Evidence

o 314 respondents (79.3%) agreed that ‘There should be a promenade or boardwalk between East Wittering and Bracklesham, whilst 37 (9.3%) did not mind and 45 (11.4%) disagreed.

5.23 With regard to Cycles and Footpaths:

o 289 respondents (76.3%) agreed that ‘There should be a new cycle path between East Wittering and Bracklesham’, whilst 68 (17.9%) did not mind and 22 (5.8%) disagreed. o 245 respondents (68.1%) agreed that ‘A new cycle path should be made which connects to the Salterns Way’, whilst 104 (28.9%) did not mind and 11 (3.1%) disagreed. o 352 respondents (91.7%) agreed that ‘All public footpaths should be kept clear and sign posting improved’, whilst 31 (8.1%) did not mind and 1 (0.3%) disagreed.

5.24 The 4 community facilities identified by respondents as those which they felt that the Neighbourhood Plan should aim to improve where possible were:

o Public conveniences – identified by 212 (or 53.7%) respondents; o Public footpaths – identified by 181 (or 45.8%) respondents; o Vehicle Parking Facilities – identified by 181 (or 45.8%) respondents; o Foreshore Facilities – identified by 171 (or 43.3%) respondents.

5.25 With regard to Transport & Accessibility, the greatest number of respondents indicated that all of the proposed issues were of significant concern, but with the following levels of support:

o 304 respondents (79.8%) indicated that Traffic Congestion on A286 during a summer months was of significant importance; o 298 respondents (79.0%) indicated that Traffic Congestion on A286 at roundabout junction with the A27 was of significant importance; o 217 respondents (61.1%) indicated that a Safe Cycling Solution to avoid A286 to Chichester was of significant importance; o 207 respondents (60.0%) indicated that Traffic Congestion on A286 at roundabout junction with B2201 was of significant importance; o 168 respondents (47.2%) indicated that Public Transport with a bus service that ends too early was of significant importance; o 161 respondents (46.4%) indicated that a Pedestrian Crossing at Bracklesham Corner was of significant importance; o 156 respondents (44.2%) indicated that Speeding was of significant importance; o 115 respondents (33.5%) indicated that Parking Facilities in Bracklesham were of significant importance; o 94 respondents (28.1%) indicated that Local information and signage for walkers and tourists and cyclists was of significant importance.

20

East Wittering and Bracklesham Neighbourhood Plan –

Stage 1 Report: Part B Community Evidence

5.26 Of the 216 respondents to the question, the greatest number of those responding (155 or 71.8% of respondents) indicated that they usually travel to work via motor vehicle, whilst 28 (13.0% of respondents) travel by bus, 24 (11.1% of respondents) walk, 23 (10.6% of respondents) Cycle and 8 (3.7% of respondents) travel by train.

5.27 With regard to Environment, Heritage and Local Knowledge, the greatest number of respondents indicated that all of the proposed issues were very important, but with the following levels of support:

o 365 respondents (92.6%) indicated that Green and Open Spaces were very important; o 296 respondents (78.1%) indicated that Footpaths were very important; o 295 respondents (77.6%) indicated that Recreation Areas were very important; o 273 respondents (73.0%) indicated that Character Houses/buildings of architectural or historic interest were very important; o 262 respondents (69.9%) indicated that Cycle Paths were very important; o 207 respondents (63.5%) indicated that Community Buildings were very important;

5.28 With regard to elements that the Neighbourhood Plan should seek to maintain or create:

o The greatest number of those responding - 171 (46.8% of respondents) indicated that Local Information Boards were very important; o The greatest number of those responding - 129 (36.0%) indicated that Collating Local History was very important; o The greatest number of those responding - 103 (29.1%) indicated that a Museum was of low importance. o The greatest proportion of those responding – 102 (31.1%) indicated that a Visitor Information Centre was very important; o The greatest proportion of those responding – 21 (61.8%) indicated that Other options were very important.

5.29 The 4 issues identified by the greatest number of respondents as those which the Neighbourhood Plan should seek to address were:

o Dog Fouling – identified by 242 respondents (60.2% of those responding). o Anti-Social Behaviour – identified by 196 respondents (48.8% of those responding). o Road Surface Quality – identified by 169 respondents (42.0% of those responding). o Flooding – identified by 161 respondents (40.0%) of those responding).

5.30 In terms of the frequency with which residents undertake activities in East Wittering & Bracklesham:

o The greatest number of respondents – 300 (75.6%) shop for groceries at least twice a week; 21

East Wittering and Bracklesham Neighbourhood Plan –

Stage 1 Report: Part B Community Evidence

o The greatest number of respondents – 142 (35.9%) visit service stores (Post Office, Hairdressers etc.) at least once a week; o The greatest number of respondents – 157 (41.8%) eat out once a month. o The greatest number of respondents – 141 (38.4%) use the Library never. o The greatest number of respondents – 263 (71.3%) use professional services once a month.

322 respondents or just over three quarters of those responding to the question (80.3%) indicated that they shopped most frequently in East Wittering.

5.31 In terms of the impact of enhanced retail facilities and services in East Wittering and Bracklesham on shopping patterns, the greatest number of respondents – 194 (50.7% of those responding) indicated that it would lead to no change.

5.32 The greatest number of respondents (207 or 54.9% of those responding) indicated that they were retired, whilst 54 (14.3%) work in East Wittering & Bracklesham, 54 (14.3%) commute within West Sussex, 36 (9.5%) work elsewhere, 35 (9.5%) work from home, 13 (3.4%) are not currently working and 11 (2.9%) work within Greater .

5.33 The most commonly identified types of employment which respondents felt the Neighbourhood Plan should encourage were:

o Tourism and Leisure – identified by 200 respondents (53.5% of those responding). o Farming - identified by 158 respondents (42.2% of those responding) o Market Gardening – identified by 147 respondents (39.3% of those responding) o Shops/Retail – identified by 145 respondents (38.8% of those responding)

5.34 The greatest number of those responding - 136 (37.2%) indicated that the Neighbourhood Plan should not identify land to encourage more employment, whilst 120 (32.8%) did not mind and 110 (30.1%) indicated that additional land should be identified for this purpose.

5.35 Just over three quarter of those responding (250 or 79.1%) indicated that Brownfield sites should be identified as sites for employment use, whilst 66 (20.9%) indicated that they should not.

5.36 An overwhelming majority of those responding (329 or 95.4%) indicated that Existing Buildings should be identified as sites for employment use, whilst 16 (4.6%) indicated that they should not.

5.37 An overwhelming majority of those responding (272 or 95.8%) indicated that Greenfield Land should not be used as sites for employment use, whilst 12 (4.2%) indicated that they should.

5.38 Of the 62 respondents who identified that they operated a small business in East Wittering & Bracklesham, 33 (53.2%) indicated the need for a Postal Collection and delivery service, 19 (30.6%) for a Workshop or meeting facilities for short-term or hourly 22

East Wittering and Bracklesham Neighbourhood Plan –

Stage 1 Report: Part B Community Evidence

rental, 14 (22.6%) office and administration services, 13 (21.0%) Office space for short-term or hourly rental and 11 (17.7%) identified Other services.

5.39 The greatest number of those responding (266 or 88.1% of those responding) indicated that significant improvement to the local road network (including A27 access) would encourage new businesses to locate in East Wittering & Bracklesham, whilst 123 (40.7% of those responding) identified Better broadband, 64 (21.2% of those responding) identified a Local Business Network, 60 (19.9% of those responding) identified more purpose built premises and 19 (6.3% of those responding) indicated Other issues.

The greatest number of respondents (193 or 54.1%) indicated that the form of local renewable energy which the Neighbourhood Plan should encourage is Photo- Voltaic/Solar.

5.40 An overwhelming majority of those responding (383 or 96.5%) indicated that their home was in East Wittering & Bracklesham, whilst 14 respondents (3.5%) indicated that it was a second home.

23

East Wittering and Bracklesham Neighbourhood Plan –

Stage 1 Report: Part B Community Evidence

6 Community Views

6.1 A number of people attending the Fun day expressed concern about accessibility to the beach, particularly for people with mobility problems, or for parents with large pushchairs. Similar comments were made in the survey and on Facebook, so it is quite clear that beach access is a major concern to parishioners and no doubt visitors to the area. These comments have been noted. However, the parish council have historically investigated the possibility of a slipway and for reasons due to the incline of the beach, been informed that it is not easily achievable or financially viable. It is also noted that similar comments were made in relation to the submitted Chichester District Council Local Plan.

6.2 There was strong support for a promenade so that visitors and parishioners could stroll along the seafront from East Wittering and Bracklesham. Although not easily viable. It will certainly be expensive. However, it would help to strengthen the sea defences.

6.3 It was felt that a crossing in Bracklesham between the Beech Avenue junction and the convenience store is lacking, and that trying to get across the road to the bus stops, particularly in the busy summer months was hazardous. West Sussex County Council will be lobbied to see if anything can be done, although this probably will be outside the remit of the Neighbourhood Plan.

6.4 A number of respondents to the survey expressed a preference for smaller housing sites with less than 10 houses on them, and furthermore, that those dwellings should be bungalows representing the age of the population. Others suggested two/three bedroom properties at the lower end of the market, enabling first time buyers, or people with limited incomes to get on the housing ladder. In addition, if there were a way to ensure that local people who worked nearby, or with an opportunity of local employment could be encouraged to buy, this would be welcomed.

6.5 Concerns were expressed over dog fouling, litter and inadequate sewage. Many felt that the bus service ceased far too early in the evening.

6.6 Other concerns beyond the remit of the Neighbourhood Plan were poor access to NHS dentistry, the need for a viable Youth Service, poor broadband facilities and the need for double yellow lines in Stocks Lane.

6.7 A full report and results from the survey can be found at the Parish Council website.

24

East Wittering and Bracklesham Neighbourhood Plan –

Stage 1 Report: Part B Community Evidence

7 Contributions from Neighbourhood Plan Thematic Groups

7.1 What are our important facilities: (houses, beach, Medmerry, others):

7.2 The older houses in the villages ( e.g., Clifford Cottage, the Dental Practice, the Nappers, Shore Road, the Galleon, the Thatched Tavern, the old Mill, Church Road) as well as the beach and Medmerry were all important. In addition we need to protect Bracklesham Park and Barn, Downview and Booker Green.

7.3 A log of ‘assets and treasures’ – what does our parish want to retain, what must be protected at all costs?

7.4 As well as all the items listed in 7.2 above we need to retain the “old style” shops in East Wittering so that it does not become “too commercial”.

7.5 What improvements would we like to see (the beach, Medmerry, promoting East Wittering and Bracklesham as a Tourist attraction, other)

7.6 Depending on the availability of finance, land etc we would like to see the following:

 At least a section of Booker Green should be kept green and free of stones.  A promenade along the beach from East Wittering to Bracklesham.  Better access to the beach for the disabled, e.g., better ramps and existing steps being kept free of stones.  More cycle paths in the village e.g., along Longlands Road and up Stubcroft Lane to the Bell Public House and eventually leading to Birdham Pool.  A seaside restaurant in East Wittering similar to “Billys” in Bracklesham  The drainage of the High Street outside Travis Perkins and along the Parade should be sorted so that it does not flood every time it rains.  Dog Fouling in Bracklesham Park and other areas should be kept under control perhaps by notices attached to the dog fouling bins urging members of the public to phone the local PCSO if they spot dog walkers who do not pick up after their dog.  Better public signs to Medmerry from Bracklesham/ East Wittering.  Better footpath between Bracklesham and Earnley.  Better parking in Bracklesham for visitors and shoppers.  Better guides for visitors/tourists: e.g., leaflets setting out local walks or gardens open to the public, leaflets promoting the fossil beds in Bracklesham.

7.7 The Local Plan sets a requirement of around 100 homes at East Wittering/Bracklesham.

25

East Wittering and Bracklesham Neighbourhood Plan –

Stage 1 Report: Part B Community Evidence

7.8 This number of new homes is considered to be just sustainable and to date of the 100 there are 17 nearing completion and 50 with planning consent.

7.9 For the record, since the start of the Plan period, within the two Wittering Wards there have been some 189 approvals of which 94 are affordable homes. The Plan has a sustainable increase of 200 homes for these Wards over the Plan period 2012 – 2029.

7.10 Even though, the plan includes the statement: ‘It is intended that additional local employment opportunities should be planned in conjunction with new housing development’ there is no evidence of this in the Plan. In fact with the closure of Cobham (Credowan Ltd) at least 100 jobs have already been lost.

26

East Wittering and Bracklesham Neighbourhood Plan –

Stage 1 Report: Part B Community Evidence

Glossary of Acronyms

AONB Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty

BUAB Built-up Area Boundary

CDC Chichester District Council

CDLP Chichester District Local Plan

CLPKP Chichester Local Plan Key Policies

EU European Union

EWBNP East Wittering and Bracklesham Neighbourhood Plan

HRA Habitats Regulation Assessment

NPPF National Planning Policy Framework

PCSO Police Community Support Officer

PPG Planning Practice Guidance

Ramsar Convention on Wetlands of International Importance (Ramsar Convention)

SAC Special Area Conservation

SEA Strategic Environmental Assessment

SHLAA Strategic Housing Land Availability Assessment

SPA Special Protection Area

SSSI Site of Special Scientific Interest

27

East Wittering and Bracklesham Neighbourhood Plan –

Stage 1 Report: Part B Community Evidence