Aldwick News
Highways, Transport and Planning Residents Newsletter September 2026
In this newsletter, you'll find:
- New report highlights continued investment in West Sussex's highways network
- Oak processionary moths
- Take care on the roads this autumn
- Have your say on proposed new electric vehicle chargepoints
- Highway improvement works
- Utility projects update
New report highlights continued investment in West Sussex's highways network
A recent report outlines West Sussex County Council's (WSCC) continued commitment and investment in the county's highways, alongside the proactive and preventative approach being taken to look after and improve one of the county's most important public assets.
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Oak processionary moths
Oak Processionary Moths (OPM) are a tree pest that is spreading across the South East of England.
OPM caterpillars feed on oak trees, damaging foliage and posing a risk to human health. Their tiny toxic hairs can become airborne and may cause skin irritation, eye problems and respiratory issues.
The larvae construct communal nests of white silk from which they crawl at night in single file, head to tail in large processions to feed on foliage in the crowns of trees, returning in the same manner. The nests may be hemispherical, teardrop shaped, bag-like, and blanket-like (surrounding part of a trunk or branch), and may be at any height on the tree. The diameter may range from about 25 mm to stretching several meters up the trunk.
While West Sussex currently sits within the Forestry Commission's buffer zone, which means they can provide support to help eradicate the pest if found, recent records close to Crawley and Horsham highlight the importance of being prepared.
If you find or suspect OPM, you should report it to the Forestry Commission; or report it to West Sussex Highways who will confirm the presence of OPM and pass the information to the Forestry Commission.
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Take care on the roads this autumn
As summer fades and autumn begins, road users are being reminded to take extra care as changing weather and seasonal conditions can increase the risk of collisions. September often brings a combination of low sun, wetter weather and falling leaves, creating challenging driving conditions, particularly during morning and evening commutes.
Motorists are encouraged to keep their windscreens clean inside and out, ensure washer fluid is topped up and carry sunglasses to help minimise the effects of sun glare. Allowing extra time for journeys and increasing following distances can also help drivers react safely to unexpected hazards.
Drivers should regularly check the condition of their tyres, brakes and lights to ensure their vehicle is ready for changing weather conditions. Reducing speek in wet weather and avoiding harsh braking or sudden manoeuvres can help maintain control of the vehicle.
Pedestrians and cyclists also have a role to play in staying safe. Wearing bright or reflective clothing and making sure bicycle lights are working can improve visibility as daylight hours begin to shorten.
By adapting to seasonal conditions, this will help everyone to stay safe.
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Have your say on proposed new electric vehicle chargepoints
Residents are being asked for their views on over 60 proposed new on-street electric vehicle chargepoints as the West Sussex Public Charging Network expands.
Delivered by the county council, it aims to make charging easier for residents who do not have access to a driveway or garage, and supports the move from petrol and diesel vehicles to electric.
The plans would see one dual socket chargepoint installed at each proposed location, underground infrastructure would also be put in place for additional chargepoints to be easily added in the future, as demand increases.
There would be no changes to parking arrangements at this stage.
Residents can take part in the consultation by visiting:https://yourvoice.westsussex.gov.uk/ev-chargepoints from 21 September until 19 October 2026.
You can also view proposed locations, by visiting:http://www.connectedkerb.com/westsussexresidents
To suggest a new location for a chargepoint or if you are unable to complete the survey, call 0330 222 7770 or email: evchargingpoints@westsussex.gov.uk
Highway improvement works
Matthews Drive, Crawley - lights upgrade
West Sussex County Council has successfully upgraded an existing toucan crossing, providing a safer, more reliable and easier-to-use crossing for pedestrians and cyclists.
The project replaced ageing equipment and infrastructure with modern technology designed to improve safety and accessibility for everyone using the crossing. This included new traffic signals, upgraded underground cabling and improvements to the surrounding footways.
As part of the works, the footpaths around the crossing were resurfaced and new tactile paving was installed to help visually impaired people navigate the area more easily. The crossing was also fitted with audible signals and tactile cones to provide additional support for those with sight loss.
One of the key improvements was the installation of advanced pedestrian detection technology. This allows the crossing to respond more effectively to people waiting to cross, helping to improve both safety and efficiency.
By bringing the crossing up to modern standards, the scheme has created a more accessible and user-friendly route for pedestrians and cyclists, while ensuring the crossing remains reliable and fit for purpose for years to come.
A29 Shripney Road and Shripney Lane - road safety improvements
5 October 2026 until 27 November 2026
We will be undertaking a Community Highways and Bus Service Improvement Scheme along A29 Shripney Road and Shripney Lane, Bognor Regis, from 5 October until 27 November 2026.
To allow the works to be completed safely, temporary multi-way traffic lights will be in operation between 8am and 4pm, Monday to Friday. In addition, a night-time road closure will be in operation from 16 to 18 November 2026.
When complete, the scheme will provide safer crossing opportunities for pedestrians, support lower vehicle speeds, and improve access to local services and public transport along this busy route.
We thank residents and road users for their patience while these important improvements are carried out.
Rowner Road, Billingshurst - embankment repair success
West Sussex County Council highways inspections team identified signs of erosion affecting the embankment supporting Rowner Road during a routine inspection earlier this year.
Working quickly, the council's highways engineers developed a solution to strengthen the embankment and prevent further deterioration. The repair involved removing unstable ground, installing a robust rock-filled support structure, and adding protection against future erosion from the nearby watercourse.
The work was carried out during a temporary road closure and completed within a short timeframe, allowing the road to reopen soon afterwards.
Thanks to the swift response from our Highways Team and its delivery partners, the embankment has now been stabilised, helping to protect the road for the long term and ensuring it remains safe and accessible for local residents, businesses and visitors.
Utility projects update
This section provides updates on projects being carried out by utility companies across the West Sussex Highways Network. |
Gas works
Chichester Road, Bersted, Bognor Regis
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Work is progressing well into the third and final phase of the old gas main replacement project. Businesses are open as usual and pedestrian access will be maintained at all times. Phase three: from 24 August to 16 October 2026 Road closure on Chichester Road from the junction of Fairlands to North Bersted Street. |
A259 Brighton Road, Park Road, Worthing
Gas main replacement work continues on Park Road, with connection works to the existing gas main on Brighton Road scheduled to begin soon.
Park Road (between the junctions of Lyndhurst Road and Brighton Road/A259) Due to the location of the gas pipes and the width of the road, a road closure is in place from 27 July to 16 October 2026 to ensure the safety of the workforce and the public. On-street parking will be suspended for the duration of the works; however, vehicle access to off-road parking for the flats will be maintained.
A259 Brighton Road at the junction with Park Road Temporary two-way traffic signals will be in operation from 28 September to 16 October 2026 to facilitate connection works to the gas main.
Stockbridge Road, Chichester
From Saturday 10 October, SGN engineers will be carrying out gas main replacement works on Stockbridge Road for approximately seven weeks.
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The works will be undertaken under a road closure on Stockbridge Road between the Chichester Bypass junction and Grosvenor Road. Earlier this year, gas main replacement works were completed on the side roads off Stockbridge Road, which has significantly reduced the overall duration of the planned road closure. |
We apologise for any inconvenience these essential works may cause. The section of gas main being replaced is an ageing metal pipe that has experienced a number of emergency gas leaks.
In addition, works will be carried out on the A286 Birdham Road, between Nos. 26 and 35, under multi-way temporary traffic lights from 30 November for approximately 4 weeks.
Please note that the Grosvenor Road bus stop will be suspended for the duration of the works. A temporary bus stop will be provided on B2201 St George’s Drive.
These works may have an impact on bus timetables. Please check your local bus service provider for routes and timetable.
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Fleming Way, Crawley
SGN are currently replacing old metal pipes along Fleming Way, Crawley. The works will be carried out in phases to help minimise disruption. This project is expected to last approximately 6 weeks under multi-way lights.
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If you need further information about these works, you can contact SGN Customer Service Team by email Customer@sgn.co.uk or alternatively you can call them on 0800 912 1700. For travel and route diversion, please follow Causeway one.network.
Water infrastructure upgrades
Bull Hill, Rake
South East Water and its contractor, Clancy, continues to carry out the replacement of approximately 1.15 kilometres of water main pipework. The works commenced on 27 July 2026 and is expected to take around 6 months to complete. These works are essential due to a number of leaks and burst water mains in and around the Rake area.
The project will take place along London Road, Bull Hill and Canhouse Lane. To facilitate the works, a phased road closure will be introduced, starting at the Bull Hill junction with London Road and progressing towards Canhouse Lane as the works advance.
Find out more and sign up at Priority Services | South East Water . If you have any questions or concerns before the work starts, please call our advisors on 0333 000 0018 (Monday to Friday 8:00am to 5:30pm) or via email @ Wholesale Contact Us | South East Water.
Partnership working delivers successful utility schemes
Utility connection project at Market Place and Mill Green Road in Haywards Heath has set a great example of how proactive stakeholder engagement can contribute to successful project delivery.
Due to a busy town centre location, the scheme required careful coordination with a wide range of stakeholders, including local councillors, the bus operator, the Town Clerk and nearby businesses.
From the outset, WS Highways Network Management Team, guided by theHighway Network Management Plan, worked closely with UK Power Networks and its contractor, ALS Civil, as well as Southern Gas Networks and its contractor, I&G. This collaborative approach promoted effective communication and coordination throughout the projects, ensuring that potential issues were identified and addressed at an early stage, helping to minimise disruption and support successful project delivery.
This collaborative approach minimised disruption and kept stakeholders informed throughout the works. As a result, the project was completed on schedule with very few community complaints, demonstrating Highways Network Management’s commitment to partnership working, proactive communication and the successful delivery of infrastructure improvements.
Keep up to date 📱💻
Facebook, X, Bluesky & WhatsApp
Updates on emergency reports are posted every day and project updates are posted frequently on the West Sussex Highways Facebook @West Sussex Highways, X @WSHighways, and Bluesky @wshighways.bsky.social accounts.
Did you know you can get gritter alerts, grass-cutting updates and up-to-date information on road issues on WhatsApp? You can follow silently or opt for alerts to notify you when we share an update. To find us open WhatsApp and select "Updates" from the bottom menu, then simply search for WSHighways or click the link - WSHighways.
Produced by the Customer Communications Officer, Highways Transport and Planning. Please contact active.communities@westsussex.gov.uk with any comments or suggestions for future articles.