Release date: 19 December 2023
Cllr Pete Bradbury is Chairman of West Sussex County Council
“As Chairman of West Sussex County Council, and on behalf of all Members and staff, I wish all residents of West Sussex a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
“Whatever you are doing, I hope that you have a good festive season and have the opportunity to spend time with your loved ones.
“This has been a very memorable year, with the nation coming together to celebrate the coronation of King Charles III in May 2023 as a very happy moment for the nation.”
Cllr Paul Marshall is Leader of West Sussex County Council
“As we draw closer to Christmas and the New Year, I’d like to take the opportunity to wish all our residents a happy and enjoyable festive season, however you are spending the time.
“I hope you will have the opportunity to join in the festivities with friends, family and others in your community, or maybe take the time for yourself to recharge.
“This has been another busy year for all of us across West Sussex.
“We’ve witnessed the coronation of His Majesty The King, and the first ever proclamation at County Hall in Chichester.
“The cost-of-living pressures have remained a feature in our daily lives and county council teams have been on hand to provide support to people who need extra help.
“Early in the new year, the county council will have some difficult decisions to take about our budget and making best use of the resources available to us.
“I know how tough things are at the moment, and forefront in my mind is the principle that every penny the council spends is your money.
“So while we will continue to protect and invest in vital services, we will also ensure they deliver value for money and clearly contribute to the four priorities in Our Council Plan together with our underlying commitment to protecting the environment.
“At the same time, we will continue to lobby national government for fairer funding settlements that benefit communities in our county.
“Thank you to everyone who completed our recent budget survey. Your views will help inform the budget proposals we put to Full Council for a final decision in February.
“We will share with you updates as this work progresses through the year alongside further achievements as West Sussex County Council continues to deliver for you.
“Merry Christmas and a healthy, happy and safe New Year.”
