Ditchling is a delightful village nestling at the foot of the South Downs in East Sussex. It has an electorate of approximately 1,700 people. It is an example of a Saxon Strip Parish. There is an excellent network of footpaths covering some 33miles in total which enable walkers to enjoy the countryside and in many cases savour breathtaking views. To the North of the Village is Ditchling Common Country Park which is owned and managed by East Sussex County Council and to the south there is the famous Ditchling Beacon which is the highest point on the South Downs. Ditchling Common is a Site of Special Scientific Interest included in which there are three sites of Nature Conservation Importance.

There is a very strong cultural and artistic tradition in the Village. These are depicted in the local Ditchling Museum, Turner Dumbrell Workshops and local businesses. It is a lively community with some 40 local organisations which are represented on the Ditchling Village Association.

Ditchling is keen to preserve its character whilst realising that some change is inevitable. Parts of the Village are designated as Conservation Areas and the central area is further protected by an Article 4 Direction Order. There are 40 Listed Buildings in and around the Village.

The Parish is represented on East Sussex County Council and Lewes District Council; it has eleven members on the Parish Council who serve for four years. The Parish Council holds its statutory meetings monthly on the fourth Tuesday; in addition it holds Special Council Meetings on the second Tuesday monthly if required to deal with plans and urgent matters.

------------------------------------------------------
Affordable Housing Need in Ditchling

Ditchling Parish Council is participating in a Housing Needs Survey in the Parish. A  short questionnaire will be sent to every household, which the Parish Council would be grateful if you could take the time to complete and return by 4th November.

 

The survey is being undertaken by Action in Rural Sussex, which is an independent organisation that liaises with Parish Councils, District Councils and Housing Associations.  The aim of the survey is to find out what, if any, type of housing is needed within the parish and how best it can be provided. 

 

 

Part 1 of the survey is to be completed by all households whether in housing need or not; part 2 collects information about those households in need of affordable housing. The results of the housing survey will be summarised on the Parish Council notice boards and website.

 

Affordable housing is rented and shared ownership housing for those who cannot afford to either purchase or rent the accommodation they need on the open market.


------------------------------------------------------
Function & Duties

To be published when compiled.