Council appoints expert to look at Mouse Lane

Steyning’s Mouse Lane has been the centre of controversy following numerous complaints to the council of heavy flooding and debris over the years.

In an update at Monday’s Steyning Parish Council meeting, county councillor for Bramber Castle, David Barling, said a flooding consultant is now on the case to see if a balancing pond is a viable option.

After the meeting Mr Barling told the Herald: “There’s a huge volume of water now coming down Mouse Lane from the fields and hills beyond and this is making the road dangerous.

“Because the volumes are so high, they are spilling out across the road as well as going down the gully.

“I’m very sympathetic to resident complaints and concerns, and I’m doing all I can to move the project forward.”

Mr Barling said there is no short-term solution for Mouse Lane but added the flooding consultant was currently looking at sketches of the potential balancing pond devised by parish councillor Mariella Alexander.

“The expert visited Mouse Lane just before Christmas accompanied by members of the parish and a local resident,” continued Mr Barling.

“We’re waiting on his report, which is expected in early February.”

Last year, it was announced the council had been working with the drainage team on a new balancing pond that will be organised in conjunction with the Wiston Estate and parish council.

A highways inspector came to Mouse Lane on January 9 and has given the go ahead to make further pot hole repairs.