Sign of the times

Travellers around the area may well have noticed the triumphant notice now erected alongside the A259, opposite the Eldon Way junction at Wick, announcing the sale of agricultural land.

Busy drivers along this route will soon have plenty of time to dwell over the effects of the development, comprising one-third of Arun district’s 2,000-plus strategic housing allocation on those green and pleasant fields, as they sit and wait their turn through the construction of the extensive new traffic-light junction required to serve the project.

So, it is to be farewell to this free-flowing section of what is classified as the Littlehampton bypass, despite extensive residents’ protests over environmental damage and traffic intrusion into their adjacent country lanes.

As the houses and commercial premises progress, not only will those fertile areas disappear forever beneath roofs and concrete, but some of the most delightful views across the Arun valley will be obliterated.

Although Mrs Sutherland suggests town councillors may be at fault, I suggest much of the blame rests on the arrogant attitude of those far-away perpetrators of these schemes.

Derek Hulmes, Littlehampton town councillor for

Brookfield ward,

Kingfisher Drive

Wick