Children are back at school, holiday-makers have returned home and the blazing sun we’ve seen over the past couple of months is struggling to make an appearance – summer is officially over.
With the season coming to a close, the RNLI lifeguards have finished their patrols on Bexhill beach and will be winding down operations at Camber – with weekend coverage remaining in place until September 27th.
I’d like to take this opportunity to thank the RNLI and our own coastal officers who have, yet again, done an amazing job in keeping visitors to our beaches safe over the summer season.
With limited or no lifeguard service at Rother’s beaches, I’d urge anyone planning on entering the water to fully consider the risks and take extra precautions if they do decide to swim.
For many, the summer months are an opportunity to wind down and enjoy a slower pace of life. For staff and councillors at Rother, the hard work has continued to ensure services are delivered and projects progressed.
Frustratingly, our work on the reorganisation of local government that will see all council services brought under a single authority in East Sussex has been put on hold after the Government announced a review of the decisions taken so far.
While it’s disappointing given the amount of work that has taken place across county, district and borough councils, it’s vital that we get this right, and if the review will help us achieve this then it’s necessary.
We are now waiting for confirmation on how Rother and other areas of East Sussex will be involved in the review and the timescales we are expected to work to. In the meantime, we will go ahead with elections in May 2027 using existing district and borough council boundaries.
Many people will be wondering what this means for local councils, and I want to reassure them that there will be no immediate changes for our council or the services we provide.
Something that definitely hasn’t changed is our recognition of the great work volunteers and community organisations, and I’m delighted that grassroots project can bid for a share of £100,000 through the latest round of our Community Grant Scheme.
Projects that strengthen communities across the district can apply for a share of the money to support day to day costs, staff and equipment or for building work and refurbishment.
This year, to mark 1,000 years since the birth of William the Conqueror, we are encouraging applications from that promote local heritage, culture, learning, community participation or tourism with a Norman-themed project.
Applications are open now and not-for-profit organisations including charities, community organisations and social enterprises, have until Friday, October 16 to apply.
I would encourage anyone with a project that could benefit from funding to have a look at the funding criteria and apply. You can find out more by visiting Rother District Council Community Grants Scheme – Sussex Community Foundation
Ends.
Published: 18th September 2026
