Dormice sleep soundly during pumping work

An environmental improvement scheme is under way in the village, where sewres in Smugglers Way become overloaded during heavy rain, sometimes causing flooding and Southern Water wants to improve capacity of the current system.

The scheme involves building a new pumping station and laying pipes on ecologically sensitive land to help protect four homes in Smugglers Way.

Dormice living in the area are under protection so work will have to be carried out sensitively as dormice hibernate throughout winter in ensts at and below ground level.

Regular checks on dormice boxes will be carried out to ensure minimum disturbance to their habitat.

Additional dormouse nesting boxes will be installed to encourage breeding.

For full story see West Sussex Gazette December 5