New river pontoons for Arundel as 'Big Society' becomes a reality

Arundel will be getting new river pontoons thanks to a government funded scheme which sees the ‘Big Society’ idea swing into action.

The government's Small Rural Towns Programme has backed plans for the pontoons - which were suggested by local residents as a way of improving Arundel.

An event, hosted by West Sussex County Council at Lodge Hill in nearby Pulborough last week, highlighted the importance of market towns and how residents can drive change in them.

The event was for local authorities, community partnerships and other interested parties, to discuss how they can the support market towns in the future.

County Council Cabinet Member for Environment and Economy, Deborah Urquhart, said: “Market towns do not only serve the town itself but are a hub for wider communities.

“They are places for people, businesses and visitors to meet, trade and enjoy the variety of facilities, providing services such as doctors, libraries, and leisure centres.”

A range of projects were showcased which had been supported under a government funded Small Rural Towns Programme. These included the new pontoons at Arundel.

Deborah said: “We want to keep these towns vibrant and expanding, and this event has enabled us to see where support is needed.

“As part of the government’s ‘Big Society’ idea, we want to give communities a greater influence over what and how services are provided.

“This event proved successful in seeing how we can move forward with the county’s market towns.”