SECURE FUTURE FOR CHICHESTER 'GREEN LUNG'
Chichester City Council and West Sussex County Council have completed an agreement which will secure the future of an area of land described as an 'important green lung.'
The city council has taken a 25 year lease on Henty Field at the rear of the County Council's Record Office in Orchard Street.
The agreement also includes a one-off payment from the County Council to off-set some of the costs such as grass cutting.
"Henty Field is a hidden but much enjoyed area and this agreement guarantees its future as a public and recreational open space." said the Mayor of Chichester Councillor Peter Budge.
He added: "The City Council is very grateful to the County Council for agreeing to the lease of this land, consisting of just over one hectare. The lease includes provision for a 15 year break clause, but I can see no reason why the lease cannot run to its full term."
The Mayor said the aim now was to galvanise people living near Henty Field and users of the land to ensure that it becomes self-managing.
"We would like to see the formation of a Friends of Henty Field with local people using it to hold community events such as fetes. Our thinking behind the lease is that its use and general upkeep such as litter clearance is something that local people will actively play a part in.
"Our resources are limited, but we can point any organisation that is formed to various funding and grant sources if they want to install seating or perhaps an interpretation board giving some of the history of the land, which is also known locally as Brewery Field as its was once part of the Henty Brewery site."
West Sussex County Council Leader Louise Goldsmith said: "As the local Councillor I am aware that Henty Field is a really important green lung in Chichester and as such much appreciated and loved by residents who enjoy having an open informal green space.
"As with all County Council asset transfers much work has gone on in the background over the last couple of years to secure the future of this peaceful facility so I am delighted with this agreement and share the City Council's hope that local people will not only make good use of the land but will also want to become really actively involved in ensuring it is a true community asset."