Explore every episode of the podcast Sussex And The City
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| #69: Is Wales Showing Sussex How To Do Devolution Differently? | 09 Nov 2026 | 00:35:52 | |
The Sussex And The City Podcast Host: Richard Freeman What if the decisions we make about Sussex today had to take account of people who won't be born for another fifty years? As the Sussex and Brighton Strategic Authority prepares to agree its draft prosperity strategy, it's a particularly timely question. The decisions being made now about housing, transport, infrastructure, investment and economic development could shape the region for generations. But how do we make sure those decisions are about more than short-term economic growth? And what might Sussex learn from somewhere that's already tried to change the way government thinks? Our guest this week is Jane Davidson, a former Welsh Government minister who helped put sustainable development and the wellbeing of future generations at the heart of public decision-making in Wales. Jane spent more than a decade in government, introducing the UK's first charge for single-use carrier bags, helping transform Wales's approach to recycling, and developing policies that would eventually contribute to one of the most distinctive pieces of legislation in modern British government. The Well-being of Future Generations (Wales) Act 2015 requires Welsh public bodies to consider the long-term social, economic, environmental and cultural consequences of their decisions. The idea is that Government shouldn't improve life for people today by making life worse for the people who come after us. But turning that principle into something that actually changes decisions is considerably more complicated. Jane explains how Wales moved from a general commitment to sustainable development towards legal duties, seven national wellbeing goals and five ways of working: long-term thinking, prevention, integration, collaboration and involvement. And it's that final principle that she keeps coming back to. The people affected by decisions should be involved in making them. We explore how Wales developed its approach, why good intentions aren't enough without mechanisms for delivery, and what happened when businesses, universities, communities and politicians began working towards a shared ambition. There are some fascinating examples along the way, from carrier bag charges and recycling targets to the Welsh businesses experimenting with giving nature and future generations a formal voice in corporate decisions. For Sussex, the comparison raises some important questions. Our new strategic authority is developing a prosperity strategy before the election of its first mayor. It has an opportunity to establish principles that will guide future investment, but it also faces the challenge of bringing together communities, institutions and places that haven't always thought of themselves as part of one region. And unlike Wales, Sussex won't have its own national legislature or the same powers to impose statutory duties. So how much of the Welsh approach could we adopt voluntarily? Could the strategic authority commit to a shared definition of prosperity that includes health, fairness, nature and resilience alongside economic performance? Could businesses, universities, councils and community organisations adopt similar principles? And could we develop a genuinely distinctive Sussex way of making decisions, rather than simply giving familiar approaches a new regional label? Jane is clear that Wales hasn't got everything right. But its experience demonstrates that long-term change is possible when ambition is supported by practical structures, public participation and a willingness to learn. She also reminds us that devolution is only the starting point. What matters is what people choose to do with the powers and opportunities available to them. This is a conversation about systems thinking, democracy, sustainable development, prosperity, intergenerational fairness and the possibilities of devolution. And perhaps the biggest question is whether Sussex can build a shared vision that belongs not just to its future mayor or strategic authority, but to the people who live and work here. Because the future of Sussex is being shaped now. And the people who will inherit it deserve a place in the conversation. A production note: this conversation was originally recorded several months ago, but a technical mishap meant that part of the recording had to be reconstructed. Jane generously returned to record the missing section, so listeners may notice a slight change in the audio partway through. -- This episode is brought to you by Be Business Energy WiseBe Business Energy Wise is a fully funded programme helping East Sussex businesses take control of energy costs and make smarter sustainability decisions. Businesses can access free practical one-to-one support, detailed on-site energy assessments where eligible, and workshops covering energy efficiency, sustainability marketing and reducing waste through the circular economy. You don't need an existing sustainability strategy or specialist knowledge. The programme helps businesses understand where they are now, what could make a difference and what's worth doing next. Be Business Energy Wise is funded by the Sussex and Brighton Strategic Authority and East Sussex County Council, managed by East Sussex County Council and delivered by Always Possible. Find out more at alwayspossible.co.uk/be-business-energy-wise. In this episode
Jane Davidson is a former Welsh Government minister, author and internationally recognised advocate for sustainable development and the wellbeing of future generations. She served in the Welsh Government from 2000 to 2011, holding ministerial responsibilities for education, the environment, sustainability and housing. During this period, she introduced pioneering environmental policies, including the UK's first charge for single-use carrier bags, and helped establish the foundations of Wales's long-term approach to sustainable development. Her work contributed to the development of the Well-being of Future Generations (Wales) Act 2015, which places sustainable development duties on public bodies and has attracted international interest. Following her political career, Jane became Pro Vice-Chancellor at the University of Wales Trinity Saint David, where she worked to embed sustainability in education and institutional practice. She has also chaired the Wales Net Zero 2035 Challenge Group. She is the author of #futuregen: Lessons from a Small Country, which explores how Wales developed its approach to legislating for the interests of future generations, and what other places can learn from that experience. Links and further reading
Host: Richard Freeman sussexandthecity.info – episodes, resources, events and more about devolution and change across Sussex. sussexintelligence.com – independent research and evidence-led insight into growth, infrastructure, governance and belonging across Sussex. | |||
| #68: Are We About To Repeat Sussex's Planning Mistakes At A Bigger Scale? | 02 Nov 2026 | 00:37:19 | |
The Sussex And The City Podcast Host: Richard Freeman Sussex is changing the way it governs itself. But will that change the decisions we make about where we build homes, how we travel and what prosperity actually means? Or are we about to repeat decades of planning mistakes, only on a much bigger scale? Our guest this week is Chris Todd, an environmental and transport campaigner who has spent more than 30 years challenging conventional thinking about development, infrastructure and the environment. Chris was involved in the campaign against the proposed South Coast Superhighway, helped secure the creation of the South Downs National Park in 2010, chaired the partnership that achieved UNESCO Biosphere status for the Brighton and Lewes Downs, and founded Transport Action Network in 2019. He's seen major changes in public policy before. He's also seen what happens when communities challenge established assumptions, and when decision-makers are unwilling to listen. For Chris, the creation of the Sussex and Brighton Strategic Authority offers an important opportunity to rethink how we plan for the region. But he worries that new structures could end up reproducing familiar approaches, with economic growth and infrastructure investment taking precedence over health, nature, resilience and people's everyday lives. We explore what we actually mean by prosperity. If success is measured primarily through GDP, GVA and investment, what happens to housing affordability, inequality, environmental quality and access to opportunity? Chris questions whether the emerging strategic arrangements give sufficient prominence to these wider concerns. I offer a slightly different perspective, drawing on conversations about inclusive growth, wellbeing and the intentions behind the authority's developing prosperity framework. The disagreement raises an important question: is it enough to embed these ambitions across everything an authority does, or do they need explicit responsibilities and accountability to prevent them disappearing into the background? Housing is another major part of our conversation. Chris argues that Sussex doesn't simply need more homes. It needs the right homes, in the right places, connected to existing communities, public transport and essential services. He describes expensive new developments in rural Sussex that do little to address affordability, alongside sprawling, car-dependent housing estates that place additional pressure on roads and services. We discuss whether more compact, better-connected development could provide a different approach, including an example from Chippenham where an alternative masterplan proposed accommodating thousands of homes on substantially less land. And then there's transport. Chris challenges the assumption that improved connectivity necessarily means building more roads. For someone who cannot afford to own a car, a new dual carriageway might do very little to improve access to work, education or services. A reliable bus, a safe cycling route or better connections between rural communities and nearby towns could make a much greater difference. We explore the opportunities for the strategic authority to improve transport across Sussex, from relatively modest bus priority measures and active travel schemes to longer-term decisions about how the region's network should function. There's also a fascinating discussion about Brighton and Hove, where relatively low car ownership, a compact urban form and an extensive bus network offer lessons for other parts of Sussex. Chris is certainly critical of aspects of the emerging arrangements. But his career is also evidence that seemingly immovable systems can change. The South Downs National Park exists because people spent years arguing that a different approach to protecting and managing the landscape was possible. And when I ask him what a successful Sussex might look like in fifteen years, his answer is optimistic. Thriving towns and cities that have rediscovered what makes them distinctive, rather than becoming traffic corridors. Rural and urban communities that are better connected. And a transport network that allows people to get almost anywhere without being forced to own a car. This is a conversation about planning, transport, housing, environmental protection, public accountability and the choices that will shape Sussex for generations. The question isn't simply whether devolution gives us more power. It's whether we'll use that power to do things differently. --- This episode is brought to you by Be Business Energy WiseBe Business Energy Wise is a fully funded programme helping East Sussex businesses take control of energy costs and make smarter sustainability decisions. Businesses can access free practical one-to-one support, detailed on-site energy assessments where eligible, and workshops covering energy efficiency, sustainability marketing and reducing waste through the circular economy. You don't need an existing sustainability strategy or specialist knowledge. The programme helps businesses understand where they are now, what could make a difference and what's worth doing next. Be Business Energy Wise is funded by the Sussex and Brighton Strategic Authority and East Sussex County Council, managed by East Sussex County Council and delivered by Always Possible. Find out more at alwayspossible.co.uk/be-business-energy-wise. In this episode
Chris Todd is an environmental and sustainable transport campaigner with more than three decades of experience working with communities, charities and public bodies. His campaigning began in the early 1990s through Friends of the Earth and opposition to major road-building proposals across southern England. He subsequently played an important role in the campaign to establish the South Downs National Park, which was designated in 2010. Chris also chaired the partnership responsible for securing UNESCO Biosphere status for the Brighton and Lewes Downs in 2014, and spent five years working with the Campaign for Better Transport. In 2019, he founded Transport Action Network, which supports communities campaigning for more sustainable transport and challenges road schemes on environmental, social and economic grounds. Having grown up in Sussex, Chris brings a combination of local knowledge, national campaigning experience and a longstanding interest in how planning decisions affect communities, landscapes and people's everyday lives. Links and further reading
Host: Richard Freeman sussexandthecity.info – episodes, resources, events and more about devolution and change across Sussex. sussexintelligence.com – independent research and evidence-led insight into growth, infrastructure, governance and belonging across Sussex. | |||
| #67: Sussex Is A 'Thing' And We Wunt Be Druv. But What Do We Want Instead? | 26 Oct 2026 | 00:34:10 | |
The Sussex And The City Podcast Host: Richard Freeman Sussex is a thing. Obviously. But what sort of thing? And who gets to decide? My guest this week is John V. Willshire, a strategic designer, writer and founder of Smithery, a consultancy that has spent 15 years helping organisations think differently about change. John's guiding principle is to help people make things people want, rather than make people want things. And recently, he's been applying that philosophy to Sussex. Drawing on the work of French philosopher Bruno Latour, John explores the ancient meaning of the word thing: a gathering of people brought together to discuss matters of shared concern. So Sussex isn't simply a geographical boundary or an administrative arrangement. It's a complicated collection of communities, landscapes, histories, institutions, relationships and competing priorities. And devolution is asking us to start treating all of that as one strategic region. John and I have been exploring some of these questions through the Sussex Futures Network, a deliberately informal platform for bringing people together to experiment with different ways of thinking about Sussex's future. One of those experiments has involved playing card games. Inspired by the nineteenth-century Chartist movement and a contemporary charter-building game developed by Our House, John and collaborators have created a Sussex-specific game that invites people to imagine different forms of democracy. Players combine cards showing who might hold power – from mayors, councillors and citizens' assemblies to rivers and even beavers – with cards showing how that power might be exercised. They then imagine the worst possible outcomes, or dreadocracy, and the best possible outcomes, or dreamocracy. It's playful and often absurd and very revealing. Because when people are invited to experiment with democracy, rather than simply respond to proposals somebody else has written, they begin to recognise that political structures aren't fixed. They're things people have designed, and therefore things people might redesign. We've played the game at Colonnade House in Worthing and Bull House in Lewes, the former home of Thomas Paine, whose writing helped inspire the American Revolution. There's something appropriate about sitting in that building, more than 250 years later, imagining different ways political power might work. The conversation also takes us into the recent history of the Sussex Charter, written in 2006 by local resident Ian Steedman, and the establishment of Sussex Day on 16th June. John finds something liberating in the discovery that a document which feels like an ancient declaration of Sussex identity was actually invented less than twenty years ago. If somebody could invent a Sussex Charter, what else might we invent? Could Sussex Day become an annual opportunity to discuss the future rather than simply celebrate the past? Could schools, community groups, businesses and councils experiment with different forms of participation? And could the new strategic authority build curiosity and play into the way it engages people? Running through the conversation is that famous Sussex motto, "We wunt be druv." John sees it as something more useful than a nostalgic declaration of stubbornness. It's permission to do things differently. But there's an important question underneath that independent spirit. It's one thing to insist that we won't be told what to do. It's quite another to work out what we want instead. And that means bringing more people into the conversation, including those who wouldn't ordinarily attend a consultation, read a strategy document or think that local democracy has much to do with them. Towards the end of our conversation, John offers a provocation. What if Sussex's biggest export in fifteen years was play? Not simply games or entertainment, but play as a serious method for solving problems, challenging assumptions, imagining alternatives and bringing people together. This is a conversation about design, democracy, Thomas Paine, Sussex identity, devolution and the possibility that our future doesn't have to be something somebody else has already decided. Because democracy isn't simply something we have. It's something we do. --- This episode is brought to you by Be Business Energy WiseBe Business Energy Wise is a fully funded programme helping East Sussex businesses take control of energy costs and make smarter sustainability decisions. Businesses can access free practical one-to-one support, detailed on-site energy assessments where eligible, and workshops covering energy efficiency, sustainability marketing and reducing waste through the circular economy. You don't need an existing sustainability strategy or specialist knowledge. The programme helps businesses understand where they are now, what could make a difference and what's worth doing next. Be Business Energy Wise is funded by the Sussex and Brighton Strategic Authority and East Sussex County Council, managed by East Sussex County Council and delivered by Always Possible. Find out more at alwayspossible.co.uk/be-business-energy-wise. In this episode
John V. Willshire is a strategic designer, writer and founder of Smithery, an independent strategic design practice established in 2011. Previously Chief Innovation Officer at PHD Media in London, John works with organisations to explore possible futures, develop new ideas and turn complex challenges into practical experiments. His clients have included the BBC, LEGO, Unilever, Wellcome and the United Nations Development Programme. He also created Artefact Cards, a hands-on tool for creative thinking, and has taught innovation and future thinking at IED Barcelona and the Royal College of Art. Although a native Scot, John has lived in Sussex for nearly twenty years and is helping develop the Sussex Futures Network, exploring how design, play and participation might shape the county's democratic future. Links and further reading
Host: Richard Freeman sussexandthecity.info – episodes, resources, events and more about devolution and change across Sussex. sussexintelligence.com – independent research and evidence-led insight into growth, infrastructure, governance and belonging across Sussex. | |||
| #66: Is Sussex Becoming The Capital Of Better Business? | 18 Oct 2026 | 00:38:59 | |
The Sussex And The City Podcast Episode # 66 Is Sussex Becoming The Capital Of Better Business?Host: Richard Freeman What if the thing that makes Sussex economically distinctive isn't simply what our businesses produce, but how they choose to operate? We spend a great deal of time talking about growth. How to attract investment, create jobs, increase productivity, support entrepreneurs and make Sussex more competitive. These are central questions for the emerging Sussex and Brighton Strategic Authority, which is developing a long-term approach to prosperity across the region. What sort of businesses do we actually want to grow? And could Sussex become somewhere recognised not just for successful businesses, but for businesses that take their responsibilities to people, communities and the environment seriously? Demi Heath thinks it could. Born and raised in Portslade, with several years spent living and working in New Zealand, Demi is the founder of Hearth Sustainability, a certified B Corp consultancy helping businesses become more sustainable, resilient and socially responsible. She is also a registered B Consultant with B Lab UK, Co-Chair of Brighton B Local, co-founder of the Sussex Impact Pathway and a member of the Brighton & Hove Economic Growth Board. Demi has helped more than 30 businesses through the B Corp process and works with organisations of different sizes to understand how environmental, social and governance considerations can become part of everyday business decisions. And Sussex is proving to be fertile ground. There are around 90 certified B Corps across Sussex, representing everything from independent businesses to professional services firms and larger organisations. Brighton & Hove has one of the UK's largest concentrations outside London, while the South Downs National Park has approximately 18 B Corps – understood to be more than any other UK national park. That seems a particularly interesting coincidence in a region with such a strong independent business culture, where the landscape and coast are central to its identity, and where many businesses are closely connected to their communities. But what exactly is a B Corp? The certification is sometimes mistaken for an environmental badge. In reality, it considers a much wider set of questions about how businesses operate: how they treat workers, their supply chains, their environmental impact, their relationship with communities and the way decisions are governed. Underlying it is the idea of stakeholder capitalism. Rather than treating financial returns to shareholders as the overriding measure of success, businesses consider the interests of everyone affected by their activities, including employees, customers, suppliers, communities and the natural environment. That doesn't mean abandoning profit or ambition. Demi argues that responsible business can be a route to stronger, more resilient growth precisely because it encourages companies to think beyond the next quarter or financial year. What happens if your business depends on resources that are becoming scarce? What if your workforce doesn't feel valued? What if the suppliers you rely upon are vulnerable? What if decisions that improve short-term margins create much bigger costs in the future? These aren't simply ethical questions. They are questions about whether a business will still be successful in 10, 20 or 30 years. And that brings us back to devolution. The Sussex and Brighton Strategic Authority is developing its own definition of prosperity. Demi and Richard have both been involved in conversations about whether that definition should go beyond conventional economic measures to include people, place, communities and nature. Could some of the principles used by B Corps help Sussex think differently about economic development? Should public procurement reward businesses demonstrating strong social and environmental practice? Could local government make it easier for small businesses to develop sustainability skills? Could funding help employees learn how to embed responsible practices across their organisations, rather than simply subsidising another certification? And should sustainability become a normal part of professional competence, rather than something delegated to whoever happens to have "green" in their job title? The conversation also explores a practical example of devolution funding already beginning to take shape. Be Business Energy Wise, funded by the Sussex and Brighton Strategic Authority and East Sussex County Council, is providing free support to businesses to understand their energy use, reduce costs and make more informed sustainability decisions. For Demi, programmes like this are an encouraging start. But an energy audit or sustainability plan is only the beginning. The bigger challenge is helping businesses understand why change matters and giving them the knowledge, confidence and resources to put it into practice. Her long-term ambition is strikingly simple. She wants sustainable business to become the norm. Not a niche, not an alternative and not something businesses pursue only when they have spare time or money. Something that is simply part of running a competent, successful business. Because at the moment, as Demi points out, it can be difficult to operate sustainably. What would Sussex look like if, ten years from now, it was difficult to operate any other way? That's the question at the heart of this conversation. This episode is brought to you by Be Business Energy Wise, a fully funded programme helping East Sussex businesses take control of energy costs and make smarter sustainability decisions. Businesses can access free practical one-to-one support, detailed on-site energy assessments where eligible, and workshops covering energy efficiency, sustainability marketing and reducing waste through the circular economy. You don't need an existing sustainability strategy or specialist knowledge. The programme helps businesses understand where they are now, what could make a difference and what's worth doing next. Be Business Energy Wise is funded by the Sussex and Brighton Strategic Authority and East Sussex County Council, managed by East Sussex County Council and delivered by Always Possible. Find out more at alwayspossible.co.uk/be-business-energy-wise. 🎯 In this episode
Host: Richard Freeman sussexandthecity.info — episodes, resources, events and more about devolution and change across Sussex. sussexintelligence.com — independent research and evidence-led insight into growth, infrastructure, governance and belonging across Sussex. | |||
| #65: What An Outside Investor Sees In The Sussex Economy | 11 Oct 2026 | 00:34:02 | |
The Sussex And The City Podcast Episode #65 What An Outside Investor Sees In The Sussex EconomyHost: Richard Freeman What does Sussex look like to somebody who doesn't already live here, work here or know how the local economy operates? We spend an enormous amount of time talking about how Sussex should present itself to the outside world. We want to attract investment, develop a stronger economic identity, champion our businesses and persuade people that this is somewhere they should come to build things. But how often do we ask somebody who has actually made that decision what they found when they arrived? Ian Jolley wasn't particularly looking to invest in Sussex. He lives in Cheshire, has spent around 30 years working in transport and logistics, and is building a growing group of businesses specialising in commercial vehicle repairs and truck building. His operations already included P Leake Commercial Repairs in Telford and Collins Truck Builders in Essex when an opportunity arose to acquire Agricom, a long-established commercial and agricultural vehicle repair business near Petworth, West Sussex. The previous owners were retiring, the business fitted Ian's expansion strategy, and Sussex became the location of his third acquisition almost by accident. Then something unexpected happened. Ian began spending time in rural West Sussex and discovered a business culture that felt quite different from the one he knew elsewhere. Not necessarily less ambitious. Not unproductive. Just a different pace. Where his businesses further north could feel relentlessly focused on doing more, faster, Ian found that people in Sussex sometimes approached decisions more deliberately. They still wanted to grow, but seemed to spend more time thinking about whether an idea was right before rushing into it. And rather than importing his existing management culture into Sussex, Ian has started taking some of that Sussex approach back to his other businesses. Sussex is dominated by smaller businesses, independent enterprises and specialist suppliers. We often discuss this as a weakness, particularly when comparing ourselves with regions dominated by major corporate headquarters or large industrial employers. But Ian sees something else. He describes Sussex as an untapped pool of talent, where larger businesses could find specialist expertise, suppliers and people capable of supporting their growth. Perhaps Sussex doesn't need to become a miniature version of Birmingham, Manchester or London to attract investment. Perhaps it needs to get better at explaining the economic value of what already makes it distinctive. There is, however, another side to Ian's experience. He works in transport, logistics and commercial vehicles – industries that rarely feature prominently in the stories we tell about the Sussex economy, despite being essential to practically everything else. We have Gatwick Airport, the ports at Shoreham and Newhaven, agricultural businesses, food producers, manufacturers and thousands of enterprises that depend on getting people, products and materials from one place to another. But Sussex is not always an easy place to move things around. The South Downs, the A27, rural roads and fragmented infrastructure create practical problems for businesses such as Agricom. Ian describes having to spend two hours travelling to and from facilities needed for truck MOTs. His argument isn't that Sussex needs motorways carved through its countryside. Instead, he asks whether we could think more strategically about the roads we already have, where industrial facilities are located and how shared distribution hubs might support rural businesses without damaging the places that make Sussex attractive. And then there is the experience of arriving here as an investor. Ian is already considering another workshop in Sussex. But identifying the right location, understanding the local business landscape, finding relevant networks, accessing skills and discovering what support or funding might exist is surprisingly difficult when you don't know the area. That matters as the Sussex & Brighton Strategic Authority begins to develop a more coherent approach to inward investment and economic growth. Attracting an investor is only the beginning. Making it easy for them to stay, expand, employ people and build relationships is just as important. This is a conversation about trucks and tractors, certainly. But it is also about the character of the Sussex economy, the economic importance of logistics, the advantages of smaller businesses and what somebody arriving from outside can see that the rest of us might have stopped noticing. And perhaps the most interesting finding is that Sussex's different pace of business might be something worth protecting, rather than apologising for. This episode is brought to you by Be Business Energy Wise, a fully funded programme helping East Sussex businesses take control of energy costs and make smarter sustainability decisions. Businesses can access free practical one-to-one support, detailed on-site energy assessments where eligible, and workshops covering energy efficiency, sustainability marketing and reducing waste through the circular economy. You don't need an existing sustainability strategy or specialist knowledge. The programme helps businesses understand where they are now, what could make a difference and what's worth doing next. Be Business Energy Wise is funded by the Sussex and Brighton Strategic Authority and East Sussex County Council, managed by East Sussex County Council and delivered by Always Possible. Find out more at alwayspossible.co.uk/be-business-energy-wise. 🎯 In this episode
🎧 Production credits Host: Richard Freeman sussexandthecity.info — episodes, resources, events and more about devolution and change across Sussex. sussexintelligence.com — independent research and evidence-led insight into growth, infrastructure, governance and belonging across Sussex. | |||
| #64: What Would A Sussex Housebuilding Revolution Actually Take? | 04 Oct 2026 | 00:36:52 | |
The Sussex And The City Podcast – Episode #64 What Would A Sussex Housebuilding Revolution Actually Take?Host: Richard Freeman Sussex has a housing crisis. That is easy to agree on. Thousands of households are waiting for social housing, living in temporary accommodation or trying to survive in a private housing market that has become unaffordable to people on perfectly ordinary incomes. At the same time, Sussex is under pressure to build substantially more homes while protecting some of the most valuable landscapes in the country. The difficult bit starts when you ask how. Who actually builds social housing? What is a housing association? Where does its money come from? Why is "affordable rent" sometimes 80% of the market rate? Why did councils transfer thousands of homes to housing associations? And if the need is so obvious, why can't we simply build a great many more? Donna Cezair has spent nearly 40 years working in social housing and is now Chief Executive of Worthing Homes, which owns around 4,000 properties and serves approximately 10,000 customers. Her starting point is that a good home is the cornerstone of a healthy and productive life. But housing doesn't exist in isolation. Building another estate on the edge of a town achieves rather less if residents can't reach jobs, there aren't enough schools or GPs, public transport is poor and the neighbourhood itself has no real sense of place. So what for devolution? The emerging Sussex and Brighton Strategic Authority will increasingly think across housing, transport, infrastructure, skills and economic growth at a scale Sussex has rarely used before. Eventually, a mayor will operate within that system too. Donna sees an opportunity for housing to stop being treated as a separate policy silo and instead become part of the county's essential infrastructure - connected to employment, health, education, transport, public space and community. But before that can happen, the social housing sector itself may need to get more organised. Donna estimates that more than 70 social housing providers operate across Sussex, ranging from major national housing associations to tiny specialist providers. Her previous experience in Greater Manchester showed her what can happen when those organisations speak collectively, work strategically with a mayor and make a clear proposition about what they can deliver. Sussex hasn't traditionally done that. So Donna is beginning to bring providers together – not simply to ask a future mayor for money, but to make an offer: land, development expertise, investment, community relationships and the ability to turn strategic plans into actual homes. And this isn't merely a question of finding enough planning sites. A major housebuilding programme will need construction workers, surveyors, materials, investment and infrastructure. Donna describes long-standing shortages in construction skills and difficulties recruiting professionals such as quantity surveyors and building surveyors. Major projects such as Gatwick's expansion could create further competition for labour and materials. Then there is public consent. People may recognise that Sussex desperately needs housing while simultaneously worrying about what new development will do to the place where they live. Donna's response is not that those concerns should be brushed aside. Housing associations need to use brownfield land, regeneration opportunities and infill intelligently – and development itself needs to produce places people genuinely want to live in. Because this conversation ultimately isn't about hitting a housing number. It is about whether Sussex can use devolution to start answering a much more useful question: Where do we want people to live – and what else needs to exist around them for those places to work? -- This episode is brought to you by Be Business Energy Wise, a fully funded programme helping East Sussex businesses understand and reduce their energy costs while making more informed sustainability decisions. Businesses can access free practical one-to-one support, detailed on-site energy assessments where eligible, and workshops covering subjects including energy efficiency, sustainability marketing and reducing waste through the circular economy. You don't need an existing sustainability strategy or specialist knowledge – the programme is designed to help businesses in East Sussex to understand where they are now, where energy may be being wasted and which actions are genuinely worth taking next. Be Business Energy Wise is funded by the Sussex & Brighton Strategic Authority and East Sussex County Council, managed by East Sussex County Council and delivered by Always Possible. Find out more at www.alwayspossible.co.uk/be-business-energy-wise. 🎯 In this episode
Housing associations are independent, not-for-dividend organisations providing homes at below-market costs. They are governed by boards and raise much of their finance privately rather than borrowing directly through government. New affordable housing can be supported through grants from Homes England or through planning requirements such as Section 106 agreements, under which private developments provide a proportion of affordable housing. Housing associations then offer different forms of tenure. Social rent Typically significantly below market rent – Donna describes it as around 60% of the local market rate. Affordable rent Despite the slightly awkward name, this can be up to around 80% of market rent. Shared ownership Residents purchase part of a home and pay rent on the remainder, offering another route for households unable to buy outright. Worthing Homes itself was created through a large-scale voluntary transfer in 1999, when tenants voted for Worthing Borough Council's housing to transfer to the new housing association. A major reason councils transferred homes in this way was finance: housing associations could access private investment and raise money to improve existing stock and build more homes. 👤 About Donna CezairDonna Cezair is Chief Executive of Worthing Homes and has worked in social housing for nearly four decades. She began her housing career in 1987 and moved into her first executive role six years later. Since then, she has worked with housing associations, local authorities and national organisations across the UK. Before joining Worthing Homes in January 2023, Donna was Chief Executive of First Choice Homes in Oldham, giving her direct experience of operating within the Greater Manchester devolved system and the collective approach developed by housing providers there. At Worthing Homes she leads a community-based housing association responsible for approximately 4,000 homes and 10,000 customers. Donna is also Chair of the Board of ForHousing. 🎧 Production credits Host: Richard Freeman 👉 sussexandthecity.info — episodes, resources, events and more about devolution and change across Sussex 👉 sussexintelligence.com — independent research and evidence-led insight into growth, infrastructure, governance and belonging across Sussex | |||
| #63: Sussex Could Become A Global Nature Recovery Hotspot | 27 Sep 2026 | 00:31:19 | |
The Sussex And The City Podcast Episode 63 Sussex Could Become A Global Nature Recovery HotspotHost: Richard Freeman This is a conversation we recorded more than a year ago. Oddly, it feels more relevant now than it did then. Back in July 2025, Sussex devolution was still largely something we talked about in the future tense. One of the questions Rob Alcroft and I wrestled with was whether a new strategic authority – and eventually a mayor – would see nature as something sitting off to the side of the growth agenda, or whether it might become part of our definition of prosperity itself. Quite a lot has happened since. Over the summer, climate action conveners Cat Fisher, Victoria Ramsden, Cathy Shutt and Paul Steedman brought together people from businesses, community organisations, academia and environmental networks from across Sussex to challenge the emerging Sussex and Brighton Strategic Authority's definition of prosperity. Their argument was that prosperity shouldn't mean economic growth alone. It should mean people, the economy and nature thriving together. An open letter making that case attracted 213 signatures from a wide range of organisations and individuals. And the language now being used in briefings on the emerging strategy describes prosperity as a Sussex where people, place, the economy and nature are resilient and thrive together, now and in the future. Climate resilience has also been described as one of the strategy's priorities. We're not suggesting one letter magically rewrote regional policy. It didn't. But it is a useful example of why these conversations matter while new institutions are still taking shape – and what can happen when people make a clear and practical case for doing something differently. Which brings us back to Rob. Rob is co-founder of Wayforward, a social-purpose strategic consultancy specialising in stakeholder engagement. The organisation has been deeply involved in nature recovery across Sussex, including helping shape the original vision for Sussex Bay and leading engagement around the Local Nature Recovery Strategies for East Sussex, West Sussex and Brighton & Hove. That work has given Rob a broad view of what's already happening. And there is a lot happening. Through its research, Wayforward has spoken to more than 200 people across well over 100 organisations and identified more than 50 pioneering nature recovery projects in Sussex. The finding isn't a lack of enthusiasm or expertise. It's that people overwhelmingly want to collaborate more, but often lack the time, coordination and infrastructure to do it. The opportunity for devolution, then, might not be for a new mayor to invent another layer of environmental activity. It might simply be to give a bigger voice, greater coordination and more confidence to what is already here. Sussex is incredibly green. We have the South Downs. The sea. Rivers, chalk landscapes, woodland, farmland and important habitats. For most of us, some kind of extraordinary landscape is never very far away. And that makes it easy to assume nature is doing rather better than it actually is. Rob points to research around the River Adur where around two-thirds of surveyed river users believed it to be in good or very good condition, despite evidence of its environmental problems. The landscapes around us can look beautiful while biodiversity declines, waterways deteriorate and water resources come under increasing pressure. Sussex is going to build houses. It will need infrastructure. Political leaders will want investment, jobs, transport projects and visible evidence of economic progress. Rob's argument isn't that nature recovery should become a reason to pretend none of that can happen; it's that this is the wrong binary. Development can have environmental costs while also creating opportunities for nature recovery. Nature recovery itself can support jobs, tourism, science, research, health and wellbeing. Walking, cycling, food, wine, culture and the visitor economy can all connect to the landscapes and seascapes Sussex is trying to recover. Projects including Sussex Bay, Weald to Waves, the work of Sussex Wildlife Trust and other nature recovery programmes are already demonstrating pieces of that story. Put those things together, give them a much bigger political voice and Rob believes Sussex could become something genuinely distinctive as a global hotspot for nature recovery, research and sustainable tourism. --- This episode is brought to you in partnership with TEDx Worthing, returning to Worthing Pavilion Theatre on 5 October. This year's theme is We Begin Here, exploring how local change starts and what each of us can do to be part of it, with talks, performances and interactive installations bringing more than 700 people together. Sussex and the City listeners can save 20% on tickets using the code SUSSEXCITY20. Visit www.tedxworthing.com 🎯 In this episode
👤 About Rob Alcroft Rob Alcroft is co-founder of Wayforward, a social-purpose strategic consultancy working with organisations seeking to create social and environmental impact. Rob's background is in the charity sector and fundraising. Way Forward combines that experience with expertise in communications and marketing, with a particular focus on stakeholder and public engagement – understanding how organisations can build meaningful involvement around their work. Wayforward's nature recovery work in Sussex has included helping develop the original vision for Sussex Bay and leading engagement for the Local Nature Recovery Strategies across East Sussex, West Sussex and Brighton & Hove. The organisation has also worked with Sussex Wildlife Trust, Weald to Waves and the Ouse & Adur Rivers Trust, giving Rob and the team extensive experience of the people, organisations and projects involved in nature recovery across Sussex. 🎧 Production creditsHost: Richard Freeman 👉 sussexandthecity.info — episodes, resources, events and more about devolution and change across Sussex 👉 sussexintelligence.com — independent research and evidence-led insight into growth, infrastructure, governance and belonging across Sussex | |||
| #62: Why Sussex And Hampshire May Need Each Other | 20 Sep 2026 | 00:33:49 | |
The Sussex And The City Podcast – Episode #62 Why Sussex And Hampshire May Need Each OtherHost: Richard Freeman For someone growing up in Havant in Hampshire, as Hannah Lazell did, Portsmouth (Hampshire) and Chichester (West Sussex) were simply two nearby places you went to. Jobs cross the border. Businesses cross it. The defence and aerospace economy around Portsmouth spills into West Sussex. The South Downs crosses it. And anyone who has attempted the A27 through Chichester and Arundel knows that transport problems are indifferent to local government boundaries. Yet Sussex and Hampshire have generally been expected to think about their economic futures separately. Devolution might start to change that. Hannah is a political and public affairs consultant who has worked in Parliament, advised the Labour team in the House of Lords and spent seven years at the Local Government Association. She now lives in Portsmouth, which makes her well placed to compare two neighbouring areas going through similar upheavals at similar times. And this is actually our second attempt at this conversation. We first interviewed Hannah last year. Politics moved so quickly that the episode became obsolete before we could use it. We tried again in July. Inevitably, things changed again. Since this recording, the Government has put local government reorganisation under review, including pausing the process in West Sussex and Hampshire. Devolution itself, however, continues. Sussex and Brighton has its strategic authority; Hampshire and the Solent now has one too. Both are currently heading towards mayoral elections in 2028. That leaves Hannah broadly optimistic about devolution, but with an important warning: most people still don't really know what any of this means. Even among politically engaged people, she encounters uncertainty about what a strategic authority is and what a mayor will actually do. We are creating new democratic identities while many people are still working out what the existing layers of local government are responsible for. But perhaps the more interesting opportunity begins once those mayors exist. Hannah points north, where mayoral authorities that might reasonably be expected to compete are increasingly collaborating. Northern mayors have come together around investment, infrastructure and a bigger story about the North of England. Greater Manchester and Liverpool City Region cooperate where their interests align while retaining their own identities and priorities. Why couldn't Sussex and Hampshire do something similar? There is no shortage of shared problems. The rail journey between Portsmouth and Brighton is painfully slow for the distance involved. The A27 contains notorious bottlenecks. Connections from the South Coast to Heathrow are awkward. Both regions want investment, better infrastructure, productive businesses and stronger economies. And both suffer from being bundled into the rather misleading national shorthand of London and the South East. Being relatively close to London doesn't mean the South Coast has seamless infrastructure, uniformly high productivity or an economy that needs no investment. Hannah argues that Sussex and Hampshire could start articulating a different story that identifies the things they can achieve together and gives the South Coast a more coherent voice with government and investors. That doesn't mean inventing a new super-region or pretending Portsmouth, Brighton, Southampton, Chichester, Basingstoke and the Isle of Wight are all the same place. In fact, much of the conversation is about how slippery geographical identity really is. Portsmouth has a strong identity. So does Southampton. Sussex has East and West. Hampshire's northern M3 corridor can feel remarkably distant from its southern coastal cities. And people often identify much more strongly with a town, city or neighbourhood than with an administrative county. Perhaps that's why collaboration can work. The new structures don't need to erase those identities. They might instead give neighbouring places permission to ignore boundaries when the problem they are trying to solve ignores them too. So this isn't an episode about Hampshire. And it isn't really about maps. It's about whether devolution could help create a different political and economic geography of the South Coast – one based less on inherited administrative boundaries and more on the places, connections and challenges that actually exist. --- This episode is brought to you in partnership with TEDx Worthing Tedx Worthing returns to Worthing Pavilion Theatre on 5 October 2026 This year's theme is We Begin Here, exploring how local change starts and what each of us can do to be part of it, with talks, performances and interactive installations bringing more than 700 people together. Sussex and the City listeners can save 20% on tickets using the code SUSSEXCITY20. Book now at www.tedxworthing.com 🎯 In this episode
"Local politics has always been a vessel for protest at the national government." "They've got very low awareness that it's happening and low awareness of what it could mean." "To me and my family, Portsmouth and Chichester were two places that we went to. It was irrelevant which county they were in." "We do need our structures of government as a whole to reflect how we live and work now rather than 1972." "What we're missing down here, we don't have that coherent voice and that working together." "The narrative is like London and the South East. If you live here, you know that it's far more complex than that." "There are a lot of opportunities, and it just requires people to want to work together." 👤 About Hannah LazellHannah Lazell is a political and public affairs consultant with extensive experience across national and local government. Her involvement in politics began while studying in Birmingham, where she volunteered on Gisela Stuart's 2010 General Election campaign in Birmingham Edgbaston. She subsequently worked in Parliament for MPs including Shabana Mahmood and Harriet Harman, and as an adviser to Labour's House of Lords team. Hannah later spent seven years at the Local Government Association, working closely with councils and political leaders across the country. She now works independently across strategy, policy and public affairs, with local government and devolution continuing to form an important part of her work. Originally from Havant and now based in Portsmouth, Hannah also brings a particularly useful perspective to Sussex and the City: that of someone watching almost exactly the same devolution process unfold immediately across the county boundary. 🎧 Production creditsHost: Richard Freeman 👉 sussexandthecity.info — episodes, resources, events and more about devolution and change across Sussex 👉 sussexintelligence.com — independent research and evidence-led insight into growth, infrastructure, governance and belonging across Sussex | |||
| #61: What Political Shake-ups Mean For Sussex | 13 Sep 2026 | 00:38:25 | |
The Sussex And The City Podcast – Episode #61 What Political Shake-ups Mean For SussexHost: Richard Freeman This conversation was recorded when the argument about local government reorganisation in Sussex was mostly about what shape the new councils would take. Since then, the argument has changed. The Government has paused the process and put proposals back under review, including plans affecting East Sussex, Brighton & Hove and West Sussex. That makes this conversation with John Milne, Liberal Democrat MP for Horsham, unexpectedly timely – because he was already asking some pretty fundamental questions about whether local government reorganisation was a good idea in the first place. John makes an important distinction between two changes that are often bundled together. Devolution? He's in favour. Local government reorganisation? He wishes it wasn't happening. He can see a strong case for Sussex thinking at a bigger level about transport, economic development and environmental challenges. A directly elected mayor gives the region a recognisable figurehead and potentially greater influence with central government. A river doesn't stop at a council boundary; neither does a transport network or an economy. But John worries that creating much larger councils could take everyday democracy in precisely the opposite direction. Fewer councillors representing many more people means, in his view, less local accountability. And he worries about what happens to the things that matter enormously to individual places – theatres, parks, museums and community facilities – when they become relatively small items on the balance sheet of a much larger organisation. His example is Horsham's Capitol Theatre. John believes its survival owes something to decisions about it being made close to a town that understands its value. Had it belonged to a much larger authority facing major financial pressures, he wonders whether it would still be there. Then there is housing. Horsham is prosperous, well connected and largely rural. It sits within London's economic orbit, close to Gatwick and within reach of Brighton, Guildford and Croydon. Unlike neighbouring areas constrained by the South Downs or a shortage of available land, it is also under enormous pressure to accommodate new development. John is unequivocal that Sussex needs more homes, particularly genuinely affordable ones. But he is equally frustrated by a system that can approve thousands of houses without guaranteeing the schools, healthcare and transport infrastructure needed alongside them – while homes officially described as "affordable" remain far beyond the means of many local people. The question isn't simply whether Horsham should grow. It's what kind of growth creates a better place. John sees real potential in Sussex-wide transport. Rural bus services are particularly important to him: not simply as a public service but as part of the economy. If people in villages cannot get to work and businesses cannot reach potential employees, poor transport becomes a brake on productivity as well as a threat to rural life. There is, however, a bigger challenge in importing mayoral models from elsewhere. Greater Manchester has a recognisable centre. Sussex doesn't. There is no single commercial, cultural or transport hub around which everything else revolves. Horsham itself often looks north towards Gatwick, Croydon and London as much as it looks south towards the Sussex coast. So how does one mayor represent a place that is simultaneously urban, coastal, rural, prosperous, deprived, Conservative, Labour, Liberal Democrat, Green – and everything in between? If devolution succeeds, John wants good local jobs for local people. He doesn't want Horsham to become simply a comfortable dormitory town whose residents commute somewhere else to create prosperity. With the future of local government reorganisation once again uncertain, that question has become rather less theoretical than when we recorded it. -- This episode is brought to you in partnership with the Sussex Intelligence Unit, the independent research platform from the team behind Sussex and the City. It brings together new data, research and evidence-led analysis on growth, infrastructure, governance and belonging across East Sussex, West Sussex and Brighton & Hove – helping businesses, voluntary sector organisations and policymakers understand the decisions shaping Sussex. www.sussexintelligence.com --- 🎯 In this episode
👤 About John Milne MP John Milne is the Liberal Democrat Member of Parliament for Horsham, elected at the 2024 General Election. Before politics, John spent much of his professional career in advertising, working as a creative director in London and Dublin. He later became a councillor in West Sussex, serving on Horsham District Council, including as a cabinet member, and West Sussex County Council. He did not initially expect to become an MP. He stepped in as the Liberal Democrat parliamentary candidate at relatively short notice and went on to overturn a substantial Conservative majority to win Horsham. Planning and housing have been significant interests throughout his local and national political career. Since entering Parliament, he has also become particularly concerned with special educational needs and has supported constituent-led national campaigns. 🎧 Production creditsHost: Richard Freeman 👉 sussexandthecity.info — episodes, resources, events and more about devolution and change across Sussex 👉 sussexintelligence.com — independent research and evidence-led insight into growth, infrastructure, governance and belonging across Sussex | |||
| #60: Can Chichester Become A Laboratory For The Future? | 06 Sep 2026 | 00:31:36 | |
The Sussex And The City Podcast – Episode #58 Can Chichester Become A Laboratory For The Future?Host: Richard Freeman Sussex is being encouraged to think bigger. One strategic authority. Sussex-wide approaches to growth, housing, transport and prosperity. Decisions that previously sat within individual councils will increasingly need to make sense across a region stretching from Chichester to Hastings. But where does that leave the small, local and experimental? Dr Catja de Haas thinks Chichester might provide part of the answer. An architect and urbanist who grew up near Amsterdam, studied in Delft and Barcelona, worked in Japan and later studied housing and urbanism in London, Catja has spent much of her career thinking about places facing change: particularly smaller coastal cities trying to grow without losing what makes them distinctive. She is now one of the people behind Chichester Laboratory, an experiment in bringing architects, planners, academics, universities, residents, campaigners and other local voices together around real problems facing the city. And the problems can be very specific. What should happen to old fibreglass boats? How could polluted waterways be tackled? What would make cycling genuinely viable? Could underused land within the city provide better housing? How do you build new homes without creating developments where everyone remains dependent on a car? Rather than starting with another grand strategy, Chichester Laboratory starts with the problem and tries to connect it with people who might be able to do something about it. Catja describes it almost as a dating platform for civic problem-solving: a local issue might find a university researcher, an architect, a community group or a professional with relevant expertise, with the Laboratory helping an idea move towards research, testing and eventually a real project. That also leads Catja to an interesting challenge to conventional thinking about community engagement. Listening to people matters, but communities cannot be expected to arrive with all the answers. Sometimes good engagement also means bringing expertise into the room, showing people what has worked elsewhere and helping them visualise possibilities they may never previously have encountered. As Catja puts it: "You don't know what you don't know." Her native Netherlands provides an obvious example. Amsterdam's cycling culture can appear inevitable from the outside, but it was created through political choices and changes that were themselves contested. Showing how another place made that transition can expand the range of things a community believes might be possible. And this is where a relatively small experiment in Chichester connects with the much bigger Sussex devolution story. A strategic authority needs to operate at scale. But Chichester has its own geography, economy, history and problems. Catja's argument is that strong local capacity to research, experiment and organise can sit alongside regional scale – generating ideas and evidence that can then feed upwards and, where something works, potentially be replicated elsewhere. Her ambition is for Chichester to become a small pioneering city; somewhere that tests better approaches to housing, water pollution, climate adaptation, transport and sustainable urban life, while retaining the character that makes it Chichester. Perhaps Sussex doesn't need to choose between thinking bigger and thinking smaller. --- This episode is brought to you in partnership with the NatWest Accelerator Hub at the University of Brighton. Designed particularly for ambitious founders and early-stage businesses, including those with four or fewer employees, the Hub provides free workshops, expert coaching and practical support around finance, sales, funding and leadership, alongside a dedicated app and business community. 🎯 In this episode
Catja doesn't envisage the Chichester Laboratory becoming another large institution with its own bureaucracy. She describes something deliberately light, more like a platform that connects problems, people, research and potential solutions. The longer-term ambition includes a database of research about Chichester, relationships with UK and international universities, researchers-in-residence and focused charrettes or hackathons around particular urban problems. Success ultimately means ideas becoming projects rather than accumulating as reports. Housing connects almost everythingFor Catja, housing is perhaps Chichester's most important challenge because it intersects with so many others. A house can be highly insulated, fitted with solar panels and technically efficient while still being part of an unsustainable development if its location means every resident needs a car. She is interested instead in questions of density, infill, connectivity and how Chichester can provide good housing within a compact city – including homes for people such as hospital workers and teachers. Communities shouldn't have to invent every solution themselvesCommunity engagement is vital, but Catja questions the assumption that lived experience means residents should also be expected to know every possible solution. People know their place and their experiences. Architects, researchers and specialists may know what has been tried elsewhere. Bringing those forms of knowledge together can be considerably more productive than repeatedly asking a community what it wants without expanding the possibilities available to it. "You don't know what you don't know"Cycling provides Katja's clearest example. The Netherlands is now so closely associated with cycling that it can seem culturally inevitable. But Katja remembers a process of change in which reducing the dominance of cars was itself controversial. For Chichester, international examples can therefore do more than provide technical answers. They can demonstrate that apparently unrealistic change has happened elsewhere – and help shift expectations about what might be possible locally. Devolution mustn't make everywhere the sameKatja is cautious about predicting whether devolution will necessarily be good for Chichester. Much will depend on the quality of the eventual plans and the people making the decisions. Her concern is that the city's particular character and challenges should not disappear inside something too generic. The opportunity is for strong local networks to generate ideas and evidence that can feed into the wider Sussex system while retaining Chichester's distinctive identity. 🧪 What would a Chichester Laboratory actually do?The model Catja describes is somewhere between a research network, civic laboratory and matchmaking service. A resident or local organisation might identify a problem. A university could research it. Architects or planners might explore possible interventions. Campaigners and communities could contribute their experience. Researchers from other countries might show how similar problems have been tackled elsewhere. The Laboratory can then help connect those people. Its early 'research festivals' have deliberately mixed professional and community perspectives, with contributions ranging from architecture and urban planning to citizen research and environmental campaigns. Catja would eventually like to see a searchable body of research about Chichester, more formal relationships with universities, researchers spending time in the city and short, intensive hackathons or design charrettes focused on particular problems. But the crucial test comes afterwards. Can research turn into an intervention? Can an idea attract investment? Can professionals take it forward? Can something actually get built or changed? For Catja, the Laboratory succeeds when it helps move from talking about a place to doing something in it. 🏘️ What could Chichester experiment with?Several practical challenges emerge from the conversation. Better housing Explore infill, density and new forms of development that provide genuinely useful housing without automatically creating further car dependency. A cycling city Learn from places such as Amsterdam about the infrastructure and behavioural change needed to make cycling an ordinary means of getting around rather than a marginal alternative. Cleaner water Connect campaigners, researchers, policymakers and specialists around sewage and pollution rather than allowing the issue to become only a source of anger between different sides. Fibreglass and abandoned boats Explore the environmental impact of ageing fibreglass vessels and whether universities, designers and researchers can develop practical approaches to reuse or recycling. Climate adaptation Use Chichester's manageable scale as a place to test practical responses to climate change and sustainable urban living. The individual projects may be small. The interesting question for devolution is whether successful experiments could then inform investment and policy elsewhere in Sussex. 👤 About Dr Catja de HaasDr Catja de Haas is an architect and urbanist and one of the directors of the Chichester Laboratory. Originally from the Netherlands, she studied architecture at Delft University of Technology, including study in Barcelona, where her thesis explored the pressures tourism placed on the identity of a coastal town. She subsequently worked with architectural practices in Japan before moving to the UK, initially intending to stay for two years. Three decades later, she remains here. Katja completed a PhD by design at UCL examining the idea of home and also studied housing and urbanism at the Architectural Association. Her work has repeatedly returned to questions of housing, coastal places, tourism, identity and how cities adapt to change. She now combines her architectural practice in London with her work in and around Chichester, where the Chichester Laboratory is developing new connections between local challenges, professional expertise, academic research and community knowledge. 🎧 Production creditsHost: Richard Freeman 👉 sussexandthecity.info — episodes, resources, events and more about devolution and change across Sussex 👉 sussexintelligence.com — independent research and evidence-led insight into growth, infrastructure, governance and belonging across Sussex | |||
| #59: Maybe We Should Stop Consulting Young People, And Give Them Some Power Instead | 30 Aug 2026 | 00:36:25 | |
The Sussex And The City Podcast – Episode #59 Maybe We Should Stop Consulting Young People, And Give Them Some Power InsteadHost: Richard Freeman Sussex devolution is a 'once-in-a-generation opportunity'. But for which generation? If the decisions being made now will shape housing, transport, skills, jobs and public services for decades, the people who will live with them longest need more than an occasional invitation to tell adults what they think. Perhaps we need to stop talking quite so much about consulting young people and start talking about giving them some power. Adam Muirhead has spent nearly 25 years working with young people. He has worked in youth clubs and on the streets, in hospitals and youth offending services, taught youth work as a lecturer at the University of Brighton and held leadership roles across the profession. He is a former Chair of the Institute of Youth Work. His definition of youth work strips all of that back to two things. Relationships. And power. Build meaningful relationships with young people; help them claim some power over their own lives; and, where possible, change the systems in which the odds are stacked against them. Those systems are not in especially good shape. Adam describes escalating mental health needs, exploitation and safeguarding concerns alongside a steady erosion of the universal services that once provided young people with somewhere to go, someone to trust and a route into help before a problem became a crisis. As he puts it, "the need goes up and the resource goes down." Devolution will not magically repair that. But Sussex is creating new institutions, moving responsibilities and money away from Whitehall and deciding how a new strategic authority should work. That means there is a brief opportunity to decide whose voices (and whose power) get built into the system from the beginning. Adam asks why a future Sussex mayor shouldn't have a permanently funded and genuinely powerful youth assembly, embedded within the governance of the strategic authority rather than sitting alongside it as a consultative body. Why not a commissioner for future generations? Why not young people represented directly within decision-making? And could Sussex even become the first mayoral area to introduce a children's precept, raising money specifically to invest in the generation that will inherit all of this? There are immediate questions. If you're 17 in Bognor Regis, 19 in Hastings or 22 in Crawley, can you afford to get to college or work? Are you being trained for the jobs Sussex actually needs? If you've grown up here, is there a realistic prospect of being able to afford to stay? Transport is a particularly tangible example. Greater Manchester already offers free bus travel to 16–18-year-olds. As Sussex gains greater influence over its transport system, Adam argues for an affordable county-wide youth travel concession; not just as a benefit for young people, but as an intervention in skills, employment and social mobility. And then there is housing. There is little point creating jobs for the next generation if the people trained to do them cannot afford to live anywhere near them. Young people Adam works with are not currently clamouring to discuss strategic authorities or mayoral governance. Why would they be? But they are interested in the questions devolution will ultimately have to answer, like Can I afford to live here? Can I get where I need to go? Is there a job for me? And do I have any influence over the place I'm going to inherit? If this really is a once-in-a-generation project, perhaps those questions should carry rather more power. --- This episode is brought to you in partnership with the Sussex Intelligence Unit, a new independent research platform from the team behind Sussex and the City. It brings together data and evidence-led analysis on growth, infrastructure, governance and belonging across East Sussex, West Sussex and Brighton & Hove, helping businesses, voluntary sector organisations and policymakers understand the decisions that will shape Sussex for a generation. --- 🎯 In this episode
There is plenty of goodwill towards listening to young people, and Adam points to some genuinely good participation work already happening. But listening is only one part of the equation. Young people can attend meetings, sit on advisory groups, respond to consultations and be invited to speak at scrutiny committees without having much influence over the eventual decision. Adam's challenge for devolution is therefore to go further and ask where will young people actually hold power within the new system? Young people need more than one seat at the tablePutting a young person on an adult board can look like participation while reproducing the structures that already exclude many young people. Adam argues for a range of approaches. Different young people will participate in different ways, and conventional boards are particularly likely to attract those already confident enough to navigate adult institutions. Meaningful representation needs to reach young people who are disadvantaged, marginalised or simply unlikely to volunteer for a committee. The foundations underneath young people are weakeningAdam describes a pyramid of support that once had a broad base of universal youth provision, capable of building relationships, identifying emerging problems and directing young people towards more specialist help. That base has substantially contracted. Meanwhile, youth workers are encountering increasingly complex mental health, exploitation and safeguarding issues, sometimes while young people wait years for specialist assessment or treatment. The result is what Adam describes as a "chart of doom", where demand increases while the resources available to respond decrease. Devolution creates a chance to design something differentlyNew political structures do not automatically produce better participation. But because Sussex is creating new structures anyway, there is an opportunity to build youth power into them rather than trying to bolt it on afterwards. Adam suggests a permanent youth assembly, stronger youth representation within governance and potentially a commissioner specifically concerned with future generations. His most provocative proposal is a children's precept, using the strategic authority's ability to raise money for priorities to make an explicit, visible investment in children and young people. Transport can determine who gets an opportunityFor a young person with limited income, the cost of getting somewhere can determine whether an opportunity is genuinely available. That means transport connects directly to education, skills, employment and social mobility. Adam argues that if a future Sussex mayor asks young people across the county what would make a practical difference to their lives, affordable transport is likely to appear very quickly. With Greater Manchester already providing free bus travel for 16–18-year-olds, he sees a strong case for an affordable Sussex-wide youth travel concession. Can you grow up in Sussex and afford to remain here?Young people could acquire the skills local employers need and find jobs in the Sussex economy, but still be forced elsewhere because housing is beyond their reach. Adam argues that increased housebuilding therefore needs to include genuinely affordable and social housing across Sussex, rather than concentrating it in communities already experiencing disadvantage. 🗳️ So what would giving young people power actually mean?Adam points to good foundations already operating in Brighton & Hove. The city's Youth Council uses the Make Your Mark campaign to identify priorities and campaign around them. Youth Wise creates opportunities for young people using youth services to question political representatives directly. Trust for Developing Communities has run peer research, trained young people as researchers and involved them in co-producing approaches to public services. The problem isn't that nobody knows how to involve young people. It's turning that practice into permanent democratic infrastructure. Adam draws on the Lundy model of participation, which considers whether children and young people have space to express their views, a voice through which to do so, an audience that will listen and – crucially – actual influence. A Sussex youth assembly that can be politely ignored therefore wouldn't be enough. Nor necessarily would a single youth representative sitting around an adult boardroom table. The opportunity is to build multiple routes through which different young people can participate, connect hyper-local conversations with Sussex-wide decisions and demonstrate what changed because young people were involved. 👤 About Adam MuirheadAdam Muirhead has worked with young people for nearly 25 years and is Director of Youth Work Services at Trust for Developing Communities in Brighton & Hove, where he has worked for almost two decades. His experience ranges from traditional youth clubs and street-based youth work to specialist services supporting young people experiencing exploitation, violence and other harms. TDC provides youth work within the Royal Alexandra Children's Hospital emergency department and works with young people entering the youth justice system, alongside its wider community and participation programmes. Adam has lectured in youth work at the University of Brighton and previously chaired the Institute for Youth Work. He currently chairs Youth & Policy, an international youth work journal, and the Regional Youth Work Unit for the South East of England, and is Head of Youth Work for the Hope Collective, a national collaboration working towards a fairer and safer future for young people inspired by the legacy of Damilola Taylor. He describes himself as being both "in youth work and of youth work". It is his profession, but also something that has occupied much of the rest of his life. 🎧 Production creditsHost: Richard Freeman 👉 sussexandthecity.info — episodes, resources, events and more about devolution and change across Sussex 👉 sussexintelligence.com — independent research and evidence-led insight into growth, infrastructure, governance and belonging across Sussex | |||
| #58: Small Boats Aren't Sussex's Real Immigration Story | 23 Aug 2026 | 00:35:49 | |
The Sussex And The City Podcast – Episode #58 Small Boats Aren't Sussex's Real Immigration StoryHost: Richard Freeman For all the heat around immigration, the national debate has become remarkably narrow. Small boats, asylum hotels and border control dominate the conversation. But look at immigration from Sussex rather than Westminster and there is a different picture. International workers are staffing care services, hospitals, hotels and restaurants. Farms and horticultural businesses rely on overseas labour. Schools recruit internationally. Technology and gaming companies compete globally for specialist talent. Crawley is home to a significant Chagossian community, while Brighton & Hove has been shaped by successive waves of people choosing to make the city their home. Laura Charge has spent her career seeing this system from both sides. She joined the immigration service at 17, worked within the Home Office system and now runs an immigration consultancy from Horsham, helping businesses, schools and individuals navigate rules that can be bewilderingly complex. Her conversation with Richard Freeman starts with the fact that asylum is only one small part of immigration. Laura describes around 40 lawful routes into the UK, covering work, study, family, settlement and other circumstances. For Sussex employers trying to fill vacancies or recruit specialist expertise, those routes are not an abstract political issue. They can determine whether a business can find the people it needs. That presents an intriguing problem for devolution. A future Sussex mayor will have considerably more responsibility for skills, employment and economic growth, but virtually no control over immigration. What happens when Sussex knows it needs nurses, care workers, engineers, programmers or hospitality staff, but the policies governing who can come here are designed nationally? And if devolution encourages Sussex to think of itself more consciously as a region, who gets included in that story? Someone whose family has lived here for generations? A Chagossian family in Crawley? An international student who stays after graduating? Someone who moved down from London? Or, as Laura points out, someone who crossed the border from Kent? This conversation attempts to get beyond a debate dominated by crisis and look instead at immigration as it is actually experienced by a place: through businesses, jobs, families, skills, communities and the continual movement of people. --- This episode is brought to you in partnership with the Sussex Intelligence Unit, the independent research platform from the team behind Sussex and the City, providing evidence-led insight into growth, infrastructure, governance and belonging across Sussex. 🎯 In this episode
The Sussex economy needs people. Some skills can and should be developed locally, but employers also recruit nationally and internationally. Immigration policy therefore has direct consequences for businesses, public services and the region's capacity to grow. The immigration system is much bigger than small boatsLaura describes around 40 lawful routes through which people can come to the UK. Work, study, family and settlement are all significant parts of the system, but are frequently overshadowed by the political and media focus on irregular Channel crossings. Devolution creates an unusual mismatch of powersA future Sussex mayor will have greater influence over skills, employment and economic strategy without controlling immigration policy. Sussex could therefore become better at understanding exactly which workers and skills it needs while remaining dependent on decisions made in Westminster about who can come to Britain. Smaller businesses face particular frictionLarge employers can afford specialist HR teams, lawyers and immigration support. Smaller organisations may have exactly the same need for international expertise but face a disproportionately complicated process when trying to recruit it. Belonging is more complicated than birthplaceCreating a stronger political identity around Sussex inevitably raises questions about who belongs within it. The county's communities have always been shaped by movement – both international migration and people arriving from elsewhere in Britain. Sussex cannot take its attractiveness for grantedThe county has powerful advantages: its coast, countryside, culture, universities and proximity to London among them. But attracting and retaining people also requires good jobs, housing, infrastructure, education and communities in which people can see a future for themselves. 🧭 What does this have to do with devolution?Immigration itself is not being devolved. Decisions about visas, asylum, settlement and citizenship remain matters for national government. But many of the consequences of migration – and many of the reasons people move – intersect directly with the responsibilities of the emerging Sussex strategic authority. Skills shortages affect economic growth. Migrant workers support important sectors of the economy. Housing and transport affect whether people can take available jobs. International talent can determine whether specialist businesses choose to invest and expand here. And questions of identity and community cohesion matter to the wider sense of belonging that accompanies the creation of a stronger Sussex-wide political geography. The challenge for a future mayor is therefore not to devise a Sussex immigration policy, but to understand how national immigration policy interacts with the economic and social reality of Sussex – and to represent that reality intelligently to Westminster. 👤 About Laura ChargeLaura Charge is an immigration consultant based in Horsham, West Sussex, with extensive experience of the UK immigration system. She began her career with the immigration service at just 17, initially working at the Port of Dover, before going on to work across the Home Office immigration system. Today, Laura runs her own consultancy, supporting individuals, employers and educational institutions to understand and comply with UK immigration requirements. Her work includes helping businesses navigate sponsorship and recruitment, supporting independent schools with international students and specialist staff, and helping individuals understand lawful routes to remain and settle in the UK. Her perspective combines experience from inside the national immigration system with the everyday reality of helping employers and individuals navigate it at local level. 🎧 Production creditsHost: Richard Freeman 👉 https://sussexandthecity.info — episodes, resources and events 👉 https://sussexintelligence.com — research, insight and analysis on Sussex's future | |||
| #57: The Global Medtech Story Hiding In Sussex | 16 Aug 2026 | 00:32:32 | |
The Sussex And The City Podcast – Episode #57 The Global Medtech Story Hiding In SussexHost: Richard Freeman Does Sussex really understand the scale of the businesses, technologies and expertise already operating here? Sussex is often described as a small business economy; a place of SMEs, freelancers, independents and microbusinesses. That is certainly part of the story. But it can obscure another Sussex economy; one built around advanced manufacturing, engineering, medical technology and businesses operating on a genuinely global scale. In this episode, Richard Freeman speaks with Tim Rose, UK General Manager of Elekta, one of Sussex's largest employers and one of the county's international success stories. From its campus at Manor Royal in Crawley, Elekta designs and manufactures sophisticated radiotherapy technology used to treat cancer around the world. Machines have been manufactured on the site since the 1960s; it is approaching its 6,500th machine, while the technology produced there has contributed to the treatment of more than 350 million patients globally. Yet outside medical technology and advanced manufacturing, relatively few people in Sussex know the scale of what is happening there. Richard and Tim use Elekta as a starting point for a much bigger conversation about whether Sussex is sufficiently good at identifying, connecting and promoting its economic strengths. They discuss the cluster of globally significant engineering and technology businesses around Crawley and the Gatwick Diamond, and whether devolution could help connect these strengths more intelligently with Brighton, Worthing, Shoreham, Newhaven and the east of the county. That raises a fundamental question about the emerging Sussex economy. Should places continue to compete and plan primarily within their existing boundaries, or could transport, skills, housing and infrastructure increasingly be considered as interconnected economic corridors? Skills are central to the conversation too. Elekta works with universities, colleges and schools across Sussex, providing apprenticeships, graduate routes, STEM experiences and opportunities for neurodiverse young people. Tim argues that making these careers visible matters; world-leading engineering opportunities can exist only a few miles from a young person's home while remaining almost completely outside their field of vision. And with strategic mayoral authorities taking a greater role in skills, transport and economic development, Richard and Tim explore whether devolution could turn individual examples of good practice into something more systematic. Tim's ultimate argument is for a clearer "One Sussex" economic message – not pretending that Hastings, Crawley, Brighton and Chichester have identical economies, but making a stronger collective case for investment, infrastructure, talent and growth. This episode is brought to you in partnership with the NatWest Accelerator Hub at the University of Brighton. Designed for ambitious founders and early-stage businesses, including those too young or small for many conventional business support programmes, the hub offers free workshops, expert coaching and practical support around finance, sales, funding and leadership, alongside a dedicated app and business community. Search NatWest Accelerator Brighton to find out more. 🎯 In this episode
Elekta illustrates a curious Sussex problem. Globally significant technology is being developed and manufactured here, yet much of the population has little idea it exists. If Sussex wants to attract investment and talent, identifying and communicating these strengths becomes economically important rather than simply an exercise in civic pride. Economic geography does not neatly follow council boundariesCrawley, Gatwick, Brighton, Worthing, Shoreham and Newhaven have very different identities, but businesses, workers, supply chains and infrastructure connect them. Devolution creates an opportunity to consider whether these relationships should shape economic strategy more than historic administrative borders. Infrastructure is economic policyFor a business employing around 750 people on its Crawley campus, transport is not an abstract policy discussion. It determines who can realistically work there. Tim argues that better connections and affordable housing are therefore essential ingredients in attracting and retaining skilled people. Skills need to become a Sussex-wide systemIndividual employers already have strong relationships with schools, colleges and universities. The opportunity presented by devolution is to connect these activities, so that access to an employer or career does not depend upon whether one particularly proactive school happens to know about it. Young people cannot aspire to jobs they cannot seeOne of the clearest challenges in the episode is visibility. Sussex can possess excellent STEM jobs, apprenticeships and graduate careers while simultaneously having young people living nearby who have no idea those opportunities exist. "One Sussex" should not mean one identical SussexTim's case is not that every part of the county has the same economic needs. He explicitly identifies the differences between the Gatwick economy and the south coast. The argument is instead that Sussex could present a more coherent external proposition while retaining those important local distinctions. 🏥 About ElektaElekta is a Swedish-headquartered global medical technology company specialising in precision radiation oncology. Radiotherapy machines have been manufactured on the Manor Royal in Crawley site since the 1960s, with the business subsequently becoming part of Elekta in the 1990s. The Sussex campus now combines manufacturing, engineering, research and development. Among the technologies discussed in the episode is Elekta Unity, which combines radiotherapy with live MRI imaging to allow clinicians to see and respond to tumours during treatment. 🎧 Production creditsHost: Richard Freeman 👉 https://sussexandthecity.info — episodes, resources and events 👉 https://sussexintelligence.com — research, insight and analysis on Sussex's future | |||
| #56: The Letter That Started This Whole Devolution Conversation | 09 Aug 2026 | 00:38:10 | |
The Sussex And The City Podcast – Episode #56 The Letter That Started This Whole Devolution ConversationHost: Richard Freeman This episode goes back to where Sussex And The City effectively began. Well over a year before this episode was released, Worthing historian Chris Hare distributed an open letter to thousands of local households questioning the rapidly emerging plans for Sussex devolution and local government reorganisation. One of those letters landed on Richard Freeman's doormat, and helped prompt the conversations that eventually became this podcast. Much has changed since Richard and Chris recorded this conversation. At the time, Sussex appeared to be heading towards a mayoral election in May 2026. That election has since been postponed until 2028; the government has confirmed its preferred structure for East Sussex and Brighton & Hove, subject to approval; and the final decision for West Sussex has been delayed until October 2026. But that makes this conversation more interesting rather than less. Chris questions whether what Sussex is experiencing is really devolution at all. If power is genuinely being transferred closer to communities, he asks, why do so many important decisions and resources remain concentrated in Whitehall? And why reorganise councils before addressing the financial pressures that have left many local services struggling? Richard asks whether larger authorities could eventually have the scale to take on more responsibility? Could a Sussex mayor build the strategic capacity needed to tackle transport, infrastructure, economic development and perhaps eventually issues such as water? And could reconnecting Sussex as a political geography create a stronger regional identity? The result is a deliberately sceptical conversation about something often missing from the technical discussion of devolution: democratic legitimacy. Because reorganising institutions is relatively straightforward. Persuading people that the institutions belong to them is much harder. --- This episode is brought to you in partnership with Worthing Theatres and Museum, Worthing's home for live entertainment, heritage, cinema, exhibitions and cultural experiences. Across venues including the Connaught Theatre and Cinema, Pavilion Theatre, Assembly Hall and Worthing Museum, WTM plays an important role in the cultural and civic life of the town – making it a particularly fitting partner for a conversation about local identity, heritage and belonging. Find out more at wtm.uk. 🎯 In this episode
Chris's central challenge is that changing boundaries and institutions does not automatically move meaningful power towards communities. His test is about who controls the money, who controls essential services, and who can actually make decisions? The legitimacy question has not disappearedThe timetable may have changed since this conversation was recorded, but Chris's underlying challenge remains about whether residents understand why these reforms are happening, and do they believe they have meaningfully influenced them? Scale creates a democratic trade-offLarger authorities may be able to coordinate services and infrastructure more effectively. But the bigger the geography, the greater the risk that government feels remote. The debate is therefore not simply about the right-sized council, but about how strategic scale and neighbourhood power coexist. Sussex identity could become more importantChris recognises Sussex as an unusually ancient political geography, while also acknowledging that today's county bears little resemblance to historic Sussex. Devolution could nevertheless provide a new reason for people to reconsider what Sussex means as a contemporary place. A mayor needs more than powersThe discussion highlights an overlooked element of mayoral government - personality and leadership. Formal powers matter, but so do the ability to convene, persuade, build public trust and make a new institution feel relevant. Political apathy is an outcome, not an explanationChris draws on historically much higher election turnouts to challenge the idea that people simply aren't interested in local democracy. His argument is that people participate when they believe institutions matter and their involvement can change something. 💬 What Chris says"Why bring about changes that no one's asked for?" "Democracy depends, one, on people being informed and, two, on people being engaged." "To me, devolution is about giving power to the people." "Whatever you create, the first thing you've got to do is convince people that it's a thing and that they relate to it." "Creating new elected posts, if they haven't got the real power and they haven't got the real resources, won't cut the mustard." ✉️ The letter that started the conversationChris distributed around 3,000–3,500 copies of his open letter across different parts of Worthing, deliberately trying to reach different neighbourhoods, ages and economic circumstances. Some residents shared his concerns; others essentially told him there was little point objecting because the changes would happen anyway. That second response becomes one of the most important threads in the episode. If people assume political decisions are inevitable regardless of their involvement, the problem facing devolution is much deeper than choosing the right council boundaries. It is about rebuilding the belief that participation itself matters. 👤 About Chris HareChris Hare is a Worthing-born historian, writer, oral historian and community educator whose work explores the relationship between Sussex's history, local identity and contemporary community life. He has researched and written about local history since his teenage years and has led community history projects across Sussex through History People UK. Chris also brings direct experience of local politics: he served as a West Sussex County Councillor from 1989 to 1997 and stood for Parliament in Worthing West at the 1997 general election. Although he subsequently stepped away from party politics, he has remained closely involved in Worthing's civic life. 🎧 Production creditsHost: Richard Freeman 👉 sussexandthecity.info — episodes, resources and events 👉 sussexintelligence.com — research, insight and analysis on Sussex's future | |||
| #55: The TikTok Influencer Making Sense Of Sussex Devolution | 02 Aug 2026 | 00:37:10 | |
The Sussex And The City Podcast – Episode #55 The TikTok Influencer Making Sense Of Sussex DevolutionHost: Richard Freeman Can TikTok explain local government reorganisation better than official comms teams? As England undergoes its biggest programme of local government reform in half a century, it is likely that young(ish) people will discovering devolution and council reorganisation through short-form videos on social media rather than official consultation. In this episode, Richard Freeman speaks with Charlotte (@thatisnewstome), whose TikTok and Instagram explainers have attracted a growing audience by making devolution, council restructuring and local politics accessible, engaging and surprisingly entertaining. Charlotte explains how she researches complex government proposals, distils hundreds of pages of consultation documents into digestible videos, and why she believes people deserve to understand the decisions that will shape their communities. Together they explore why Sussex has become one of the country's most intriguing devolution stories. From competing proposals for new unitary councils to debates over Brighton's boundaries, housing growth, local identity and mayoral powers, Sussex has become a national case study in the opportunities, and tensions, created by fast-track change. If people are learning about major constitutional change from independent creators rather than official communications, what does that say about the future of civic engagement? --- This episode is brought to you in partnership with the NatWest Accelerator Hub at the University of Brighton. Designed for ambitious founders and early-stage businesses with four or fewer employees, the Accelerator offers free coaching, expert-led workshops and practical support covering finance, sales, leadership and funding. Alongside a dedicated business community and digital tools, it helps entrepreneurs build sustainable businesses from the ground up. Find out more by searching NatWest Accelerator Brighton or visiting natwest.com/business/accelerator. 🎯 In this episode
Major constitutional reforms only succeed if people understand what is changing and why. Charlotte argues that accessibility is now as important as policy itself. Devolution is more than structural reformBehind changes to councils and elected mayors lie fundamental questions about democracy, accountability, identity and how local services are delivered. Sussex has become a national test caseThe county's debates over geography, housing, planning and local identity illustrate many of the tensions emerging across England's wider devolution programme. Local identity remains powerfulCommunities care deeply about where they belong. Administrative efficiency may drive reform, but people's emotional connection to place remains a significant factor in public debate. Social media is reshaping civic engagementIndependent creators are increasingly helping people understand public policy, reaching audiences who may never engage with official consultations or traditional political reporting. Better communication builds better democracyComplex government reform needs clear explanation. Making politics understandable is becoming an increasingly important part of democratic participation. 💬 What Charlotte says"People shouldn't have to read 250-page PDFs to understand what's happening where they live." "Get informed, not overwhelmed." "Sussex has become one of the most interesting places to watch." "Politics becomes much more engaging when people can relate it to everyday life." "This is the biggest change to local government in 50 years." 📱 About Charlotte (@thatisnewstome)Charlotte is the creator behind @thatisnewstome, an independent TikTok and Instagram channel dedicated to making politics and public policy easier to understand. Drawing on extensive research into local government, devolution and elections, she produces short-form explainers that translate complex policy into clear, accessible content using graphics, humour and everyday analogies. Her work has built a growing audience interested in understanding how national decisions affect local communities. 🎧 Production creditsHost: Richard Freeman 👉 https://sussexandthecity.info — episodes, resources and events 👉 https://sussexintelligence.com — research, insight and analysis on Sussex's future | |||
| #54: The Case For Neighbourhood Power | 26 Jul 2026 | 00:31:48 | |
The Sussex And The City Podcast – Episode #54 The Case For Neighbourhood PowerHost: Richard Freeman In this episode, Richard Freeman speaks with Ross Mudie from the Independent Commission on Neighbourhoods (ICON) about some of the biggest questions facing Sussex as local government is reorganised and a new mayoral authority begins to take shape. ICON, chaired by former Cabinet Minister Baroness Hilary Armstrong, is examining why some neighbourhoods continue to experience poor health, low opportunity and entrenched disadvantage despite decades of regeneration programmes and public investment. Its work argues that neighbourhood renewal depends not only on funding, but on rebuilding the relationships, institutions and community capacity that allow places to thrive. Richard and Ross explore the idea of 'double disadvantage', and communities experiencing economic hardship while also lacking the social infrastructure, local organisations and civic confidence needed to influence decisions and improve everyday life. The conversation examines why deprivation in Sussex remains persistent in places such as Hastings, how transport, housing, health and employment reinforce one another, and whether Sussex's new governance arrangements can strengthen neighbourhood action rather than unintentionally weakening it. This is a conversation about power beyond simply where it sits, but how communities can genuinely share it. --- This episode is brought to you in partnership with Worthing Homes, providing affordable homes and supporting thriving communities across the Sussex coast. Worthing Homes believes that creating a good home is only the beginning. Working alongside residents, local organisations and public sector partners, they invest in neighbourhoods where people can feel secure, connected and able to fulfil their potential. From improving homes and supporting health and wellbeing to helping communities become stronger and more resilient, Worthing Homes is committed to building places where people don't just live, but belong. To find out more, visit worthinghomes.org.uk. 🎯 In this episode
ICON argues that lasting regeneration requires communities to have the confidence, institutions and influence to shape decisions—not simply receive funding programmes. Deprivation is interconnectedPoor health, unemployment, housing quality, transport and public safety reinforce one another. Improving neighbourhoods requires joined-up action rather than isolated interventions. Social infrastructure matters more than everCommunity centres, local partnerships, trusted organisations and informal networks create the foundations that enable neighbourhoods to become more resilient. Bigger institutions need stronger local relationshipsAs Sussex moves towards larger unitary councils and a strategic mayoral authority, maintaining local knowledge and neighbourhood voice will become increasingly important. Community organising is unequalWealthier communities often have greater capacity to organise, campaign and influence decisions. More disadvantaged neighbourhoods may require active support to build the same level of civic power. Leadership is about what you doRoss argues that successful devolution will depend less on constitutional structures and more on how local leaders use their powers to improve people's everyday lives. 💬 What Ross says"Deprivation is sticky." "There are always people with ideas who want to improve their community." "Businesses won't invest where the social foundations aren't strong." "If you simply hope communities organise themselves, don't be surprised when they don't." "It's less about the model and more about what you do with it." 🏘️ Why neighbourhood power mattersRoss argues that successful places are built from the neighbourhood up. Communities with trusted organisations, active residents and strong local relationships are better able to respond to change, attract investment and improve quality of life. As Sussex develops new regional institutions, the challenge will be ensuring neighbourhoods become more influential, not more distant from decision-making. 👤 About Ross MudieRoss Mudie is Head of Research Analysis at the ICON, where he leads research into the social and economic challenges facing England's most disadvantaged communities. Before joining ICON, he was a Senior Research Analyst at the Centre for Progressive Policy, specialising in regional economics and place-based policy. He has also worked at United Nations University–MERIT and in local government policy. His work focuses on neighbourhood regeneration, economic opportunity, social infrastructure and how national and local policy can tackle entrenched disadvantage. 🎧 Production creditsHost: Richard Freeman 👉 https://sussexandthecity.info — episodes, resources and events 👉 https://sussexintelligence.com — research, insight and analysis on Sussex's future | |||
| #53: "You Can't Just Slide This Under The Mat And Say, 'Oh, We're Just Going To Do This, And Nobody's Going To Notice.'" | 19 Jul 2026 | 00:36:51 | |
The Sussex And The City Podcast – Episode #53 "You Can't Just Slide This Under The Mat And Say, 'Oh, We're Just Going To Do This, And Nobody's Going To Notice.'"Host: Richard Freeman In this special community edition of Sussex And The City, Richard Freeman visits the Cornerstone Community Centre in Hove to hear directly from members of the Hop 50+ programme run by Impact Initiatives about the future of Sussex. Rather than debating constitutional reform, the conversation focuses on buses that don't arrive, community spaces that keep people connected, concerns about mental health services, affordable housing, local identity and whether decision-makers truly understand everyday life. The discussion reveals widespread support for decisions being made closer to local communities, but also a clear warning. If Sussex is about to undergo its biggest governance change in a generation, residents believe they need to understand it, shape it and feel part of it. Devolution cannot simply happen to people. Along the way the group reflects on rural isolation, public transport, tourism, local newspapers, Airbnbs, culture, ageing well and what makes Sussex distinctive. Throughout, they return to one central question: can a future Sussex Mayor provide a long-term vision while remaining close enough to the communities they serve? The result is one of the most grounded conversations in the series; less about political structures and more about what good local leadership should actually feel like. --- This episode is brought to you in partnership with Sussex Community Foundation; connecting people who care with the communities and causes making a difference across Sussex. Through grant-making, philanthropy and local partnerships, Sussex Community Foundation helps strengthen communities, reduce inequality and support grassroots organisations throughout the county. To find out more, visit sussexcommunityfoundation.org. --- 🎯 In this episode
Participants repeatedly argue that constitutional change cannot simply be announced. Residents need to understand what is happening, why it matters and how they can influence it. Community is preventative infrastructureFrom mental wellbeing to tackling loneliness, local community organisations provide services that reduce pressure elsewhere in the public sector. Rural and urban Sussex both matterAny future strategic authority will need to balance the needs of Brighton & Hove, coastal towns, market towns and rural communities rather than allowing one perspective to dominate. Better communication builds trustMany participants describe feeling disconnected from modern politics. Clear information, visible leadership and meaningful engagement are seen as essential if devolution is to succeed. Identity should unite rather than divideWhile local loyalties remain strong, contributors believe Sussex needs a clearer shared story that celebrates its coastline, countryside, culture and communities. Think beyond election cyclesThe group consistently calls for decisions that improve quality of life over decades rather than responding only to short-term political pressures. 👥 About Hop 50+ and Impact InitiativesHop 50+ is a community programme delivered by Impact Initiatives, one of Sussex's largest charities supporting wellbeing, resilience and social connection across the county. Through activities, advice, volunteering and community events, the programme helps older residents remain active, connected and engaged within their local communities. 🎧 Production creditsHost: Richard Freeman 👉 https://sussexandthecity.info — episodes, resources and events 👉 https://sussexintelligence.com — research, insight and analysis on Sussex's future | |||
| #52: Is Sussex Ready For The AI Economy? | 12 Jul 2026 | 00:36:44 | |
The Sussex And The City Podcast – Episode #52 Is Sussex Ready For The AI Economy?Host: Richard Freeman Artificial intelligence might be reshaping the Sussex labour market faster than education, government and business can adapt. Is this a priority for devolution? In this episode, Richard Freeman speaks with Adam Stafford, founder and CEO of Worthing-based digital agency Fresh Egg, about the future of work, entrepreneurship and what Sussex needs to do if it wants to remain competitive in a rapidly changing economy. Having built Fresh Egg from a spare bedroom in Worthing into one of the UK's leading digital marketing and web performance agencies, Adam reflects on nearly three decades of technological change, and argues that the AI revolution is unlike anything businesses have experienced before. Together they discuss how automation is transforming entry-level jobs, why employers are struggling to plan for skills that barely existed six months ago, and whether universities, colleges and government can realistically keep pace with the speed of change. The conversation also explores why Sussex's economy is powered by ambitious small businesses, how a future mayor could better connect business, education and innovation, and why creating the right conditions for entrepreneurs may be one of the most important investments the region can make. --- This episode is brought to you in partnership with the University of Brighton's Help to Grow programme, supporting ambitious SME leaders across Sussex with practical leadership, innovation and business growth support through a government-funded executive development programme. 🎯 In this episode
Adam argues that businesses are already redesigning roles around artificial intelligence, while education systems and public policy struggle to adapt to technology that evolves almost weekly. Small businesses drive innovationSussex's economy depends heavily on founder-led businesses that can experiment, adapt and innovate quickly, often moving faster than larger organisations. Skills need continual reinventionTraditional career pathways are becoming less predictable. Future success will depend on adaptability, continuous learning and the ability to work alongside rapidly evolving technologies. Sussex needs a stronger business identityWhile the county has significant strengths across digital, creative industries and entrepreneurship, Adam believes Sussex could do far more to promote itself as a destination for ambitious businesses and skilled people. Growth is about more than infrastructureAlongside transport and housing, economic growth depends on supporting entrepreneurs, strengthening local networks and creating an environment where businesses can evolve with confidence. Collaboration creates resilienceCloser partnerships between business, education and local leadership could help Sussex respond more effectively to technological disruption and prepare the workforce for emerging industries. 💬 What Adam says"Technology is moving at a pace no one has seen before." "The businesses that will get through the next few years are the smaller organisations who can move quickly." "The curriculum simply can't keep up with the pace of change." "Wouldn't it be nice if running a small business could become a little bit easier?" "What is the thing that we want Sussex to become recognised for?" 🤖 Why AI changes the conversationRather than viewing artificial intelligence simply as another technology trend, Adam argues that it represents a fundamental shift in how businesses operate. As routine tasks become increasingly automated, employers will need different skills, different organisational structures and new approaches to recruitment and training. The challenge for Sussex is not simply adopting AI, but preparing people, businesses and institutions to thrive alongside it. 👤 About Adam StaffordAdam Stafford is Founder and CEO of Fresh Egg, one of Sussex's longest-established digital marketing and web performance agencies. Founded in Worthing in 2000, Fresh Egg has grown from a three-person start-up into a nationally recognised agency working with organisations including John Lewis, Vitality and the Open University. Alongside leading the business, Adam has championed digital skills development through initiatives including the Fresh Egg Academy and CharityWise, supporting charities and future digital professionals across Sussex. 🎧 Production creditsHost: Richard Freeman 👉 https://sussexandthecity.info — episodes, resources and events 👉 https://sussexintelligence.com — research, insight and analysis on Sussex's future | |||
| #51: The Problem With One-Size-Fits-All Devolution | 05 Jul 2026 | 00:31:39 | |
The Sussex And The City Podcast – Episode #51 The Problem With One-Size-Fits-All DevolutionHost: Richard Freeman Can one model of devolution work for every part of England? In this episode, Richard Freeman speaks with Andrew Griffith MP about what devolution could mean for Sussex, and why he believes Whitehall often underestimates the diversity of places it is trying to reform. Drawing on experience in both business and government, Andrew reflects on representing one of Sussex's largest rural constituencies, the challenges facing small businesses, infrastructure and planning, and whether a Sussex mayor can genuinely make better decisions than Westminster. Together they explore the balance between local identity and regional strategy, why transport remains one of Sussex's biggest barriers to growth, and whether devolution risks becoming another layer of government unless accompanied by meaningful powers and funding. The discussion also examines the importance of rural economies, the future of the South Downs, the county's growing wine industry and why Sussex's distinctive character should shape, rather than be squeezed into, a national model of devolution. --- This episode is brought to you in partnership with You All Right, Mate?, the workplace programme from Different Hats, helping organisations build healthier, more resilient cultures through honest conversation, connection and psychological safety. 🎯 In this episode
Andrew supports decisions being made closer to local communities but argues that genuine devolution requires more than new governance structures. Without significant funding and decision-making authority, new institutions risk becoming another administrative layer. Rural economies deserve greater attentionMuch of Sussex's economy depends on small businesses, farming, tourism, hospitality and specialist rural industries that often receive less policy attention than larger urban economies. Infrastructure shapes opportunityLong-standing transport issues, particularly along the A27, continue to constrain economic growth, investment and connectivity across Sussex. National policies rarely fit every placeOne-size-fits-all policymaking often struggles to reflect the realities of places like Sussex, where cities, market towns, villages and protected landscapes exist alongside globally significant businesses. Identity mattersAndrew argues that successful devolution should strengthen Sussex's identity while respecting the strong local loyalties that already exist across its towns, villages and communities. Local resilience mattersReflecting on Covid, Andrew highlights the adaptability of Sussex's small businesses and argues that future economic policy should better recognise and support local enterprise. 💬 What Andrew says"The smartest, best decisions are made close to local people." "Nobody ever came to my surgeries asking for a Sussex mayor." "One-size-fits-all doesn't work." "The world is simply a more challenging place than it has been for most of my adult life." "If there was a greater pride in being from Sussex, that would be a success." 🌿 Why rural Sussex mattersWhile discussions about economic growth often focus on cities, Andrew argues that much of Sussex's long-term prosperity depends on its rural economy. Farming, food production, tourism, vineyards, hospitality and thousands of small independent businesses contribute significantly to the county's identity and economic resilience. Any future mayoral authority, he argues, will need to balance urban investment with the needs of countryside communities and protected landscapes. 👤 About Andrew Griffith MPAndrew Griffith has been Member of Parliament for Arundel and South Downs since 2019. Before entering politics he spent over two decades at Sky, becoming one of the youngest finance directors in the FTSE 100 before serving as Chief Operating Officer. He also chaired Just Eat during a significant period of its growth. Since entering Parliament he has held ministerial responsibilities across business, trade, science, innovation and the Treasury, including serving as Director of the Number 10 Policy Unit. He currently serves as Shadow Secretary of State for Business and Trade. 🎧 Production creditsHost: Richard Freeman 👉 https://sussexandthecity.info — episodes, resources and events 👉 https://sussexintelligence.com — research, insight and analysis on Sussex's future | |||
| #50: Can Place-Based Experiments Fix Broken Politics? | 28 Jun 2026 | 00:37:20 | |
The Sussex And The City Podcast – Episode #50 Can Place-Based Experiments Fix Broken Politics?Host: Richard Freeman Can devolution do more than simply move power around? Could it fundamentally change how Britain solves problems? In this episode, Richard Freeman speaks with one of Britain's leading public policy thinkers, Polly Mackenzie, about why many of today's biggest challenges cannot be solved by traditional government structures alone. Drawing on experience inside Whitehall, think tanks, universities and social innovation, Polly argues that Britain's institutions have become too slow, too fragmented and too risk-averse to deal with modern challenges. Instead, she makes the case for a new culture of place-based experimentation, where local leaders are trusted to test ideas, learn quickly and build stronger collaboration across public services. Against the backdrop of Sussex's emerging devolution settlement, the conversation explores whether a future mayoral authority could become a laboratory for more agile government, bringing together health, housing, education, policing and economic development around shared local outcomes rather than departmental silos. Along the way they discuss democratic frustration, state capacity, local leadership, innovation, public sector culture and why solving complex problems often depends less on finding new ideas than creating better conditions for people to work together. --- This episode is brought to you in partnership with the Sussex Intelligence Unit, a new independent research platform from the team behind Sussex And The City. Sussex is changing. Devolution is reshaping how major decisions and major investment get made, but without the right evidence, how can it deliver what our communities need? The Sussex Intelligence Unit answers that challenge. It's the first independent cross-sector platform to look at growth, infrastructure, governance, and belonging across East Sussex, West Sussex, Brighton & Hove. New data, fresh analysis, evidence-led insight designed to put businesses, voluntary sector organisations, and policy makers ahead of what's next, because the decisions made today will shape Sussex for a generation. For the intelligence you need, visit www.sussexintelligence.com --- 🎯 In this episode
Challenges including housing, chronic health conditions, youth unemployment and public safety span multiple organisations, making traditional departmental structures increasingly ineffective. Devolution is about more than governanceDone well, devolution creates opportunities for places to coordinate services, build stronger partnerships and make decisions closer to the communities they affect. Leadership is becoming more relationalFuture public leaders will need to convene organisations, build trust and create space for collaboration, rather than simply manage hierarchical systems. Innovation depends on experimentationPublic institutions often reward certainty over curiosity. Polly argues that genuine improvement requires permission to test ideas, learn from failure and continuously adapt. Place creates better policyLocal government can become a platform for solving complex problems because people, services and institutions are physically closer together and better able to collaborate. Sussex has an unusual opportunityWith a new strategic authority being created alongside local government reorganisation, Sussex has a chance not simply to redesign governance, but to rethink how public services innovate and work together. 💬 What Polly says"The dominant emotion of our time is frustration." "There are very rarely new ideas. It's the patient, diligent work of getting things done that matters." "Freedom to succeed is the same as freedom to fail." "If everybody is constantly trying to make things five per cent better, that's transformative." "Entrepreneurial tinkering never gets too tidy." 🧠 Why this matters for SussexAs Sussex prepares for an elected mayor and a new Strategic Authority, there is an opportunity to think differently about how public services are designed. Rather than simply creating another layer of governance, Polly argues that devolution should enable places to become more experimental, bringing together organisations around shared local challenges, giving leaders permission to innovate and creating cultures where learning is valued as highly as certainty. For Sussex, success may depend less on constitutional reform than on whether local institutions are prepared to collaborate, experiment and embrace a more entrepreneurial approach to public leadership. 👤 About Polly MackenziePolly Mackenzie is one of Britain's best-known public policy thinkers. She served as Director of Policy to Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg during the 2010-2015 UK Coalition Government, playing a significant role during the first wave of English devolution. She later became Chief Executive of the think tank Demos, co-founded the Women's Equality Party, helped establish Martin Lewis's Money and Mental Health Policy Institute, and served as Chief Social Purpose Officer at the University of the Arts London. Today she writes the influential How To Run A Country blog and is a regular commentator on British politics, democracy, public sector reform and institutional change. 🎧 Production creditsHost: Richard Freeman 👉 https://sussexandthecity.info — episodes, resources and events 👉 https://sussexintelligence.com — research, insight and analysis on Sussex's future | |||
| #49: What Sussex Devolution Means To A 20-Year-Old | 21 Jun 2026 | 00:35:57 | |
The Sussex And The City Podcast – Episode #49 What Sussex devolution means to a 20-year-oldHost: Richard Freeman What does Sussex devolution look like through the eyes of someone who will live with its consequences for the next 50 years? Most Sussex And The City episodes feature politicians, academics, business leaders or public sector decision-makers. This conversation takes a different approach. Recorded on Worthing seafront, Richard Freeman is joined by 20-year-old Brighton resident Joe Herd for an open discussion about devolution, democracy, trust and political participation. Joe is not a councillor, civil servant or policy expert. He is simply a young Sussex resident who became curious about devolution and wanted to understand what it could mean for the place where he grew up. The conversation begins with the question: why does devolution matter? For Joe, the appeal lies in the possibility of a more collaborative and constructive form of politics than many people associate with Westminster. Together, Richard and Joe explore whether moving power closer to communities could help rebuild trust, improve participation and create a stronger sense of ownership over local decisions. Along the way they discuss local government reorganisation, the future Sussex mayor, citizens' assemblies, regional identity, public engagement and the challenge of explaining political change in ways that people actually understand. Despite the scale of the changes underway, relatively few younger people are actively involved in conversations about devolution. If Sussex is entering a new chapter of self-government, how can the next generation become active participants rather than passive observers? -- This episode is brought to you in partnership with Trust for Developing Communities - a Brighton & Hove charity working alongside communities to tackle inequality and create lasting, community-led change. TDC delivers community development, youth work, research and training across the city, supporting people and neighbourhoods to build confidence, connection and power. Its youth work helps young people feel safer, more connected, and more able to shape the places they live. At a time when Sussex is facing major decisions about devolution, democracy and the future of local services, TDC's work is a reminder that change only works when people are genuinely involved, especially those whose voices are too often missing from the room. To find out more, visit trustdevcom.org.uk. -- 🎯 In this episode
For younger people frustrated by national political division, devolution can represent a more practical and collaborative way of approaching local challenges. Trust cannot be taken for grantedPublic confidence in institutions remains fragile. New structures alone will not rebuild trust without genuine engagement and transparency. Young people are largely absent from the debateDespite being the generation most affected by long-term decisions, relatively few younger residents are participating in discussions about Sussex's future governance. Sussex still needs a shared storyThe county contains diverse communities with different identities and priorities. Building a stronger sense of common purpose will be one of devolution's biggest challenges. Participation mattersPeople are more likely to support political change when they feel involved in shaping it rather than simply being informed after decisions have been made. Democracy works best when it feels localMany of the issues people care most about (housing, transport, public spaces and opportunity) are experienced locally, making local decision-making particularly important. 💬 What Joe says"I think devolution feels like an alternative to the combative and destructive nature of national politics." "It's about moving power closer to the population." "A lot of it comes down to trust." "People need to feel like they're doing the politics, not that politics is being done to them." "There is a Sussex identity somewhere, but making people feel connected to it is the challenge." 👤 About Joe Herd Joe Herd is a Brighton-born student and lifelong Sussex resident. Having studied history, Spanish and music, he developed a growing interest in politics, governance and democratic participation. His curiosity about devolution led him to contact Sussex and the City to better understand the changes taking place across Sussex and Brighton. Joe represents a perspective that is often missing from policy discussions: that of younger residents who will inherit the long-term consequences of today's decisions and whose engagement will help shape the future success of devolution. 🎧 Production creditsHost: Richard Freeman 👉 https://sussexandthecity.info — episodes, resources and events 👉 https://sussexintelligence.com — research, insight and analysis on Sussex's future | |||
| #48: Universities, Knowledge And The Future Of Sussex Prosperity (Part Two) | 14 Jun 2026 | 00:37:37 | |
The Sussex And The City Podcast – Episode #48 Universities, Knowledge and the Future of Sussex Prosperity (Part Two)Host: Richard Freeman 🔍 Episode summary What role should universities play in the future of Sussex? As devolution reshapes local decision-making and the higher education sector faces mounting financial pressures, universities are being forced to think differently about their purpose, their partnerships and their place within local economies. In this episode, Richard Freeman speaks with Professor Sasha Roseneil, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Sussex, about the future of higher education and why universities remain critical to innovation, economic growth and social mobility. This conversation follows Richard's earlier discussion with Jo Havers from the University of Brighton and forms the second part of a wider exploration of how Sussex's universities contribute to the region's future prosperity. Together they discuss the challenges currently facing the sector, including funding pressures, changing attitudes towards degrees, student finance and the future relationship between education and work. Sasha argues that universities are far more than providers of qualifications. They are places where new knowledge is created, where future industries emerge and where people develop the adaptability needed to thrive in an uncertain world. The discussion also explores the University of Sussex's growing civic role within the county. From the Civic University Agreement to skills development, research partnerships and economic strategy, the conversation examines how universities can help shape a more connected, innovative and ambitious Sussex. Along the way, they discuss artificial intelligence, quantum computing, regional identity and the opportunities that a future Sussex mayor could unlock through closer collaboration with higher education. This episode is brought to you in partnership with the Sussex Intelligence Unit, the independent research platform from the team behind Sussex and the City, providing evidence-led insight into growth, infrastructure, governance and belonging across Sussex. 🎯 In this episode
🧠 Key themes Universities are more than teaching institutionsHigher education plays a crucial role in generating knowledge, developing future industries and preparing people for complex and changing careers. Economic growth depends on research and innovationUniversities sit at the centre of many of the technologies and industries that will shape future prosperity, from artificial intelligence to quantum technologies. Civic leadership is becoming more importantUniversities increasingly recognise their responsibility not just to global research communities, but also to the places and regions they serve. Sussex needs stronger collaborationThe Civic University Agreement reflects a growing belief that universities, colleges, businesses and public institutions can achieve more by working together. Opportunity remains unevenDespite Sussex's strengths, significant inequalities persist across the county. Addressing these disparities will be central to any long-term vision for prosperity. Devolution creates new possibilitiesA future mayoral authority could provide new opportunities for strategic investment, partnership working and innovation-led economic growth. 💬 What Sasha says "Universities are the engines of economic growth." "What university, at its best, gives students is resilience, adaptability and the ability to ask difficult questions." "The whole region will be stronger if it wasn't as unequal as it is now." "We can do far more if we work together than if we work individually." "It's not about building boundaries around Sussex. It will be a strong region in a strong country in a globally connected world." 🧠 Why quantum could matter to Sussex The University of Sussex is home to world-leading research in quantum technologies and physics. The university is helping develop proposals for a Sussex-based quantum innovation cluster, building on strengths in research, advanced manufacturing and specialist engineering. The ambition is to create a globally significant centre for next-generation technologies within Sussex. 🎓 About Professor Sasha Roseneil Professor Sasha Roseneil has been Vice-Chancellor of the University of Sussex since 2022 and is one of the UK's leading social scientists. Before joining Sussex, she held senior leadership positions at University College London (UCL), where she served as Pro-Vice-Provost for Equity and Inclusion and Dean of the Faculty of Social and Historical Sciences, and previously at Birkbeck, University of London. Her academic work has focused on social change, citizenship, identities, relationships, gender, social movements and the ways people build communities and belonging. She has published extensively on questions of social transformation and has led major international research projects examining how societies adapt to cultural, economic and political change.
🎧 Production credits Host: Richard Freeman 📣 Get involved 👉 https://sussexandthecity.info — episodes, resources and events 👉 https://sussexintelligence.com — research, insight and analysis on Sussex's future ENJOY THESE PODCASTS? Please subscribe, like, share and review - it helps to spread the word. | |||
| #47: Why Sheep's Wool Might Be Sussex's Secret Innovation | 07 Jun 2026 | 00:31:14 | |
The Sussex And The City Podcast – Episode #47 Why Sheep's Wool Might Be Sussex's Secret InnovationHost: Richard Freeman 🔍 Episode summary When people talk about Sussex's economic future, they often focus on Brighton, Gatwick, Crawley or the region's larger towns and cities. But what if one of Sussex's most strategically important places has been hiding in plain sight? In this episode, Richard Freeman speaks with entrepreneur, manufacturer and community leader Mark Beaumont about Newhaven's future and why he believes the town could become one of Sussex's most important economic assets. Mark's story is rooted in Sussex. From travelling the county with his family's organic food business as a child to building multiple ventures from Newhaven, he has spent decades exploring how entrepreneurship, community action and local pride can create opportunity. Together they explore the unique combination of assets that Newhaven possesses: a working port, direct European connections, rail freight capability, manufacturing expertise, access to London, proximity to the South Downs National Park and a strong culture of grassroots action. They discuss why these strengths are often overlooked and why places with challenges frequently become places of innovation. The conversation also explores Lanoguard, Mark's successful Sussex manufacturing business, which produces natural anti-corrosion products derived from sheep's wool and exports internationally from Newhaven. The story becomes a wider discussion about circular economy thinking, local supply chains, regenerative land use and how Sussex can build prosperity from its natural assets. As devolution approaches, this episode asks an important question: could Sussex unlock greater prosperity by paying more attention to the places, industries and communities that have often sat outside the spotlight? 🎯 In this episode
🧠 Key themes Strategic assets hiding in plain sight Innovation through constraint Community as infrastructure Manufacturing still matters A different vision for growth 💬 What Mark says "The challenges and the opportunities go together." "You can get the train directly to London and the ferry directly to Europe." "There's a very deep community here." "Those who can should be enabled to." "We need to grow Sussex together." 🏭 About Lanoguard Lanoguard manufactures natural anti-corrosion products using refined sheep's wool grease. Produced in Newhaven and exported internationally, the business demonstrates how Sussex-based manufacturing can combine innovation, sustainability and local supply chains. This episode is brought to you in partnership with Newhaven Enterprise Zone. Newhaven Enterprise Zone is working to transform Newhaven into a thriving and dynamic business destination by 2030, with a repurposed town centre, stronger growth sectors and a more resilient local economy. Its current investment plan includes seven key initiatives, including targeted grant programmes to drive productivity, business growth and investment, helping to create sustainable, inclusive jobs for the whole community. For Sussex, it means higher-value jobs, a stronger skills base and a culture of enterprise rooted in place. Find out more at newhavenenterprisezone.com ENJOY THESE PODCASTS? Please like, subscribe or leave a review 🎧 Production credits Host: Richard Freeman 📣 Get involved 👉 sussexandthecity.info — episodes, resources, events and analysis on devolution, growth, infrastructure and the future of Sussex. | |||
| #46: Why Devolution Should Help Build Better Digital Public Services | 31 May 2026 | 00:34:22 | |
The Sussex And The City Podcast – Episode #46 Why Devolution Should Help Build Better Digital Public ServicesHost: Richard Freeman
🔍 Episode summary Richard Freeman speaks with Will Callaghan, a public sector digital specialist and volunteer leader at Eastbourne-based Tech Resort, about digital exclusion, local government reform and why being offline now means being locked out of work, benefits, healthcare, education and everyday services. Will explains how Tech Resort supports people who cannot afford devices, data or basic digital confidence, and why demand for this support has grown sharply. The conversation also explores LocalGov Drupal, a Sussex-born civic tech project now used by councils across the UK and Ireland. As Sussex moves towards devolution and local government reorganisation, this episode asks what kind of digital region Sussex wants to become. Not just one with AI strategies and better websites, but one that designs public services around the people most likely to be excluded. --- This episode is brought to you by Advice Cloud. Public sector procurement can be complex, and right now, with councils reorganising, budgets tightening, and technology decisions that will shape services for years, getting it right has never mattered more. Advice Cloud are a Sussex-based team of procurement specialists who've helped over 600 organisations win public sector business, with clients typically seeing their bid success rate increase by at least a third. They harness smart technology to stay ahead, but at the heart of everything is a real team who know and understand your business - so whether you're a tech company trying to crack public procurement frameworks, or a public sector buyer trying to make better technology choices, you get real advice from people who genuinely know this world. Book a free consultation at advice-cloud.co.uk🎯 In this episode What digital inclusion really means 🧠 Key themes Digital exclusion is not a side issue. It is now central to poverty, employability, health access and public service reform. Technology can save money, but badly designed digital change can also push people further away from help. Devolution gives Sussex a chance to build a proper digital inclusion strategy across the whole region, rather than relying on patchy local provision. Local government reorganisation will place huge pressure on council staff, systems and services. Digital change needs to be humane, not just efficient. Sussex already has serious civic tech expertise. Projects like LocalGov Drupal show how councils can collaborate, share code and avoid wasting public money. The future digital region should not only be about AI, automation and innovation. It should be about access, dignity and public services that work for everyone.
🎧 Production credits Host: Richard Freeman 📣 Get involved 👉 sussexandthecity.info — episodes, resources and events | |||
| #45: Where Does A National Park Fit Into Devolution? | 24 May 2026 | 00:35:05 | |
The Sussex And The City Podcast – Episode #45 Where Does A National Park Fit Into Devolution?Host: Richard Freeman 🔍 Episode summary The South Downs National Park is one of Sussex's core systems for water, climate resilience, biodiversity, tourism, farming, health and long-term prosperity. Richard Freeman speaks with Vanessa Rowlands, Chair of the South Downs National Park Authority and Chair of National Parks England, about where protected landscapes fit into devolution. As Sussex prepares for new regional governance, the conversation asks whether a future mayor can genuinely plan for growth without understanding land, water and nature. The South Downs is unusual. It stretches across Hampshire and Sussex, includes large market towns such as Lewes, Petersfield, Petworth and Midhurst, and works across multiple council boundaries. Can Sussex think strategically about the systems that do not fit neatly inside administrative lines? The conversation explores planning, farming, chalk aquifers, tourism, nature recovery, renewable energy, flooding, rural businesses and the need to stop treating environment and economy as separate conversations. This episode is brought to you in partnership with EQ Investors. EQ Investors helps people invest with purpose, long-term thinking and a commitment to positive impact. Their work supports clients to make informed decisions while considering the wider social and environmental effects of where money is invested. It reflects a growing recognition that prosperity is not just about short-term returns, but about building a more resilient future. Find out more at eqinvestors.co.uk 🎯 In this episode What the South Downs National Park Authority actually does 🧠 Key themes The National Park is infrastructure, not backdrop. It supports water supply, flood mitigation, biodiversity, tourism and public wellbeing. Growth depends on environmental capacity. Housing, business expansion and tourism all rely on land, water, energy and climate resilience. Devolution could overlook bodies that already think strategically. The South Downs National Park Authority works across boundaries, but protected landscapes need a clearer role in emerging regional structures. Water is the hidden strategic issue. Flooding, drought, aquifers, wastewater and soil health may become as politically important as housing and transport. The countryside is economically active. Farming, tourism, green finance, rural businesses and cultural assets are part of the real economy, not an add-on. Sussex needs a better story about itself. The region's rural, coastal, urban and cultural assets need to be joined up into a clearer proposition. 💬 What Vanessa says "These countryside protected landscapes aren't just passive places. They are critical pieces of national infrastructure." "How can we be good neighbours for everybody else?" "We've got to start creating this story about Sussex and drawing people into it." "Everything we do across any national park can always be related to water." "Nature is our business."
🎧 Production credits Host: Richard Freeman 📣 Get involved 👉 sussexandthecity.info — episodes, resources and events | |||
| BONUS: Andy Burnham in 2022: How A Mayor Measures Impact | 20 May 2026 | 00:31:04 | |
The Sussex And The City Podcast – Bonus episode Andy Burnham in 2022: How A Mayor Measures ImpactHost: Richard Freeman 🔍 Episode summary This special bonus episode goes back into the archive, sharing Richard Freeman's January 2022 interview with Andy Burnham, originally recorded for The Possibility Club. At the time, Burnham was already one of the most prominent voices in English devolution. Today, his arguments about Westminster centralisation, regional power, transport, homelessness, young people, skills and public trust feel directly relevant to Sussex as it begins its own devolution journey. The conversation explores what it means to lead a region with visibility, convening power and a clear story of place. Burnham argues that devolution should start with people's lives, not abstract structures, and that impact should be measured through "names, not numbers". For Sussex, the episode offers some perspective. If a future mayor is to mean anything, they will need to do more than manage structures. They will need to build trust, connect councils, businesses, charities and communities, and make regional leadership feel human. 🎯 In this episode Why Andy Burnham believes England is too centralised 🧠 Key themes Devolution is not just about structures. Burnham argues that real devolution should give places the power to act on the issues affecting people's lives. Impact needs to be human. Data matters, but Burnham makes the case for measuring change through lived experience and real stories. Young people need a stronger place in regional policy. The conversation covers life readiness, mental health, skills and whether education is preparing young people for the world they are actually entering. Collaboration works best when it starts from place. Burnham describes how Greater Manchester brought councils, charities, businesses, faith groups and communities together around shared missions. Sussex should pay attention. The episode raises useful questions about what kind of mayoral leadership Sussex might need: visible, practical, collaborative and rooted in local identity. 💬 What Andy says "Politics lives too much in the world of numbers and statistics." "It should all be about names, not numbers." "To build resilience, you need to take power out and enable places and people and organisations to do much more for themselves." "Devolution creates that possibility." "Collaboration starts with where you are." "If you build collaboration from the bottom up, that actually is the way to make more impactful, meaningful change." 🎧 Production credits Host: Richard Freeman 📣 Get involved 👉 sussexandthecity.info — episodes, resources and events | |||
| #43: Inside Brighton's Fight For The Future High Street | 17 May 2026 | 00:37:13 | |
The Sussex And The City podcast – Episode #43 Inside Brighton's Fight For The Future High StreetHost: Richard Freeman 🔍 Episode summary Brighton and Hove has always had a complicated relationship with its own story. To some, it is one of the UK's most creative, entrepreneurial and culturally alive cities. To others, it is a place under pressure from rising rents, empty shops, homelessness, graffiti, changing consumer habits and a fragile public realm. In this episode, Richard Freeman speaks with Gavin Stewart, Chief Executive of Brilliant Brighton (Business Improvement District) and Executive Director of the Brighton & Hove Economic Growth Board, about what is really happening in the city centre economy. Gavin explains the role of the Business Improvement District, how businesses collectively fund projects such as Christmas lights, street dressing, security ambassadors and support for local traders, and why Brighton's high street story is more nuanced than the familiar 'UK city in decline' narrative. The conversation explores vacancy rates, independent retail, landlords, inward investment, tourism, the changing purpose of the high street, and what Brighton needs to do if it wants to remain distinctive, resilient and economically important. As Sussex moves towards devolution and a future mayoral authority, Brighton's role becomes even more significant. Is it the region's economic engine, its cultural shop window, its tourism magnet or something more complex? And how can Brighton's success create a ripple effect across the wider Sussex economy? This is a conversation about high streets, but also about confidence, identity, partnership, investment and what kind of city Brighton & Hove wants to become. This episode is brought to you in partnership with Brighton Hive. Brighton Hive is a growing community built on the idea that business works better when it behaves a bit more like nature. Founded by Kyriakos Baxevanis, the award-winning entrepreneur and former Sussex and the City podcast guest, Brighton Hive brings together people, organisations and purpose-led brands to create something more connected, more human and more useful than going it alone. Inspired by how a natural hive functions, it is about everyone playing a part, sharing skills, supporting each other and building something bigger than any single business. Rooted in Brighton and focused on food, wellbeing and community, the Hive is already home to ventures including Nostos Greek Restaurant, Little Jasmine Spa and Be Well Live Well. Find out more at brightonhive.co.uk 🎯 In this episode Why Brighton's city centre story is more complicated than "boom" or "decline" 🧠 Key themes Brighton is not collapsing, but it is under pressure. The city centre still performs strongly in many areas, but rising costs, changing shopping habits and public realm challenges are affecting confidence. Independent businesses remain central to Brighton's identity. The city's character depends on small, creative and distinctive traders, particularly in areas such as the North Laine and The Lanes. Vacancy rates only tell part of the story. Empty units are visible and send a negative signal, even when the data shows Brighton performing better than the national average. Landlords have a major influence over the future of the high street. Rent levels, lease terms and the willingness to back more experimental uses all shape what kind of city centre can emerge. The high street needs to become more than retail. Culture, leisure, circular economy, repair, food, events, social infrastructure and public experience all matter. Devolution could help Brighton make a stronger case for investment, but only if the city works in genuine partnership with the rest of Sussex rather than behaving like the whole region revolves around it. 💬 What Gavin says "We've got one of the lowest vacancy rates in the country." "We all believe in the city so much, and we all really want it to succeed." "We're not a cookie-cutter type place." "It's a market, and there's very little we can do to curb those businesses opening up." "Our success is a partnership." "The diversity of that group is absolutely its strength." "There is an opportunity for much more leisure usage of the high street." "I'm a big believer in working together. I'm a big believer in this region." You might enjoy our podcast investigation into the first 20 years of Brighton & Hove as a city 🎧 Sussex And The City production credits Host: Richard Freeman 📣 Get involved 👉 sussexandthecity.info — episodes, resources and events | |||
| #42: "The Antidote To Division Is Community" | 10 May 2026 | 00:32:50 | |
The Sussex And The City Podcast – Episode #42 "The Antidote To Division Is Community" Host: Richard Freeman
🔍 Episode summary Sussex is full of wealth, talent, creativity and civic energy. It is also home to deep inequality, entrenched coastal deprivation, loneliness, mental health pressures and communities facing rising need. In this episode, Richard Freeman speaks with Kevin Richmond, founding CEO of Sussex Community Foundation, about what he has learned from nearly 20 years connecting local philanthropy with grassroots organisations across the county. Kevin explains what community foundations do, why small charities are often closest to the people most in need, and how local giving can reach places that bigger systems often miss. The conversation explores the gap between the wealth that exists in Sussex and the needs that sit alongside it, from Hastings and Bexhill to Eastbourne, East Brighton, Crawley, Littlehampton and beyond. As Sussex moves towards devolution, Kevin argues that the voluntary and community sector cannot be treated as an afterthought or emergency safety net. It is part of the core infrastructure of the county: trusted, local, responsive and often holding communities together long before official systems arrive. This is a conversation about money, but also about trust, power, pride, inequality, local agency and why any serious future plan for Sussex has to start with the people already doing the work. This episode is brought to you in partnership with Impact Initiatives. Impact Initiatives is a community-led charity proving that local action still packs a punch. Working across Brighton and Hove and beyond, Impact Initiatives supports people facing some of life's toughest challenges, from social isolation and homelessness to mental health pressures and financial hardship. Their approach is practical, compassionate and rooted in the belief that everyone deserves the chance to feel connected and valued. Through community hubs, peer support networks and targeted wellbeing programmes, they help turn loneliness into belonging and crisis into stability. It is steady, often quiet work, but its impact ripples widely across Sussex neighbourhoods. Find out more at impact-initiatives.org.uk 🎯 In this episode What Sussex Community Foundation does and why it exists 🧠 Key themes Small charities are often closest to the people and places experiencing the greatest need, but they are not always visible to donors, public bodies or larger institutions. Philanthropy works best when it builds trust, backs local people and strengthens community agency, rather than parachuting in solutions from outside. Sussex contains sharp contrasts: significant wealth, vibrant communities and deep-rooted deprivation often exist very close together. The coastal strip faces long-term economic challenges that cannot be solved by charity alone, but grassroots organisations are essential to any meaningful response. Devolution could bring useful strategic focus, but there is a real risk that localism is weakened if power moves further away from communities. The voluntary sector should be seen as civic infrastructure, not a back-up plan. It carries weight across health, education, loneliness, poverty, youth opportunity and community resilience. 💬 What Kevin says "Our mission is to build a fairer and more equal Sussex through investing in local community action." "The vast majority of the charity sector is grassroots." "Sussex is full of people who see a problem and say, let's sort this out." "The grassroots is where the hope is." "Philanthropy can never be a substitute for public services." "You don't solve things by parachuting in." "Invest and let go of control." "Giving back is one of the most rewarding things you can do in your life." ENJOY THESE PODCASTS? Please consider giving a rating or review on your podcast platform of choice. 🎧 Production credits Host: Richard Freeman 📣 Get involved 👉 sussexandthecity.info — episodes, resources and events | |||
| #41: Why Culture Should Be Infrastructure In A Devolved Sussex | 26 Apr 2026 | 00:37:56 | |
The Sussex And The City Podcast – Episode #41 Why Culture Should Be Infrastructure In A Devolved SussexHost: Richard Freeman 🔍 Episode summary Culture is often treated as the product of a vibrant place, and a thriving economy. A mural here, a festival there, something colourful once the serious work of housing, transport and economic growth has been done. This episode makes a very different argument. Richard Freeman speaks with Louise Blackwell, one of the most influential cultural producers working in Sussex, about Crawley, creativity and why arts and culture should be understood as part of the region's civic infrastructure. Louise grew up in Crawley before building a major national career in the arts, including co-founding Fuel, one of the UK's most respected independent producing organisations. More recently, she has brought that experience back into Sussex through Creative Crawley and Crawley's Creative Playground, securing £millions in funding to help local people shape what culture looks like in their own town. Together they explore why Crawley matters in the cultural life of Sussex, how culture can improve safety, confidence, belonging and public space, and why devolution creates a rare opportunity to rethink the role of creativity across the county. This month, it was confirmed in parliament that arts, culture and high street regeneration will become the responsibilities of directly elected mayors and their strategic authorities. So it is timely to discuss power, participation, identity, regeneration, young people, civic pride, and who gets to tell the story of Sussex next, through the lens of devolution. This episode is brought to you in partnership with Wild Purpose. Wild Purpose helps build stronger communities through nature and intergenerational understanding. This week is Global Intergenerational Week, which champions meaningful connections between generations across the world. Wild Purpose works across Sussex and beyond, running learning and community programmes that bring adults of all ages together to understand one another, gain fresh perspectives and grow life skills. Their co-mentoring programme, community connection walks, conversation cafes, and growing and creative allotment sessions are all designed with a collaborative, nature-based ethos. In a county shaped by coastline, countryside and a strong independent spirit, Wild Purpose asks what becomes possible when we take the connection between people and place seriously. Find out more at wildpurpose.org 🎯 In this episode Why Crawley deserves a stronger place in Sussex's cultural story 🧠 Key themes Culture is not an optional extra. It shapes how people feel about where they live, how they use public space, and how communities build confidence and connection. Crawley has often been underestimated in Sussex's cultural identity, but its diversity, young population, new town heritage and location between London, Brighton and Gatwick give it huge creative potential. Creative work becomes more powerful when it is rooted in listening. Louise describes how residents, community groups, businesses and local leaders have helped shape Creative Crawley's approach. Devolution could create new opportunities for Sussex to think more strategically about culture, but only if creativity is understood as central to growth, skills, health, tourism and place-making. Sussex's cultural story is bigger than the familiar postcard version. It includes Crawley, Worthing, Chichester, Bexhill, Eastbourne, Brighton, rural communities, grassroots festivals, underground music, contemporary circus, youth theatre and creative education. The challenge is not just to celebrate culture, but to organise it better, resource it more intelligently, and connect it to the places and people who are too often left out of the story. 💬 What Louise says "There is something going on here, because it's not just me advocating." "What is missing is places and opportunities for people to come together and for their lives to get better through arts and culture." "We have such a broad definition of what creativity and culture is." "Nobody's taking it for granted that arts and culture is valuable. I have to show it by doing." "Where the money lies is where the power lies." "It could change the lives of people in Sussex and change the perspective of Sussex as the most exciting cultural destination in the UK." WANT TO ASK QUESTIONS OF NATIONAL AND LOCAL POWER BROKERS? Join us for a special online briefing and Q+A on 30 April 2026, 1 - 2.30pm BOOK TICKETS >> HERE 🎧 Production credits Host: Richard Freeman 📣 Get involved 👉 sussexandthecity.info - episodes, resources and events | |||
| #40: Most Of Sussex Is Countryside. But Who Speaks Up For It? | 12 Apr 2026 | 00:34:00 | |
The Sussex And The City Podcast – Episode #40 Most Of Sussex Is Countryside. But Who Speaks Up For It? Host: Richard Freeman 🔍 Episode summary Chats about Sussex often jump straight to the coast, the cities, Gatwick, growth sectors or investment opportunities. But most of the county is not urban and not coastal. It is farmland, woodland, river systems, villages, protected landscapes and the spaces in between. In this episode, Richard speaks with Paul Steedman from the Campaign to Protect Rural England (CPRE) - Sussex Chapter, about why the countryside needs to be taken far more seriously in conversations about growth, devolution and the future shape of Sussex. This is a good companion episode to our conversation with Jeremy Kerswell at Plumpton College about skills in the rural economy. Recorded at a moment when the region is being asked to think strategically about housing, transport, clean energy and economic growth, this discussion looks at what is at stake for rural Sussex and for the county as a whole. Paul brings a long view to the conversation. CPRE has spent decades campaigning for the protection, regeneration and long-term future of the countryside. But this is not about saying no to change, rather than what kind of change Sussex needs, where it should happen, and who gets to shape it. Together they explore the pressures facing the countryside, from housing and planning to food systems, transport, climate adaptation and energy infrastructure, and ask whether devolution could help Sussex think more clearly and more strategically about the relationship between its urban and rural futures. ---- This episode is brought to you in partnership with Plumpton College. Set in the heart of the South Downs, Plumpton College is one of the UK's leading specialist colleges for agriculture, wine, animal management, environmental conservation and sustainable land use. Celebrating 100 years this year, Plumpton continues to train the next generation of farmers, winemakers, conservationists and food producers who will help shape Sussex's future. From world-class wine education to research in agri-tech, sustainable farming, enterprise and nature recovery, Plumpton combines practical learning with deep expertise. In a county defined by its countryside, coast and land-based innovation, Plumpton remains one of Sussex's most important institutions. Find out more at plumpton.ac.uk --- 🎯 In this episode Why the Sussex countryside is too often overlooked in conversations about growth and devolution 🧠 Key themes The countryside is not just a backdrop to Sussex life. It is central to the county's economy, identity, health, food systems and environmental resilience. Debates about growth in Sussex often lean too heavily towards urban development and headline housing numbers, without fully understanding the wider value of rural land and communities. There is a strong case for better strategic planning across Sussex, particularly around transport, energy, housing and climate adaptation. Devolution could help with that, but only if environmental responsibilities are built in from the start. The tension between local democracy and strategic governance is becoming sharper. Rural communities may benefit from joined-up decision-making, but they also risk becoming more remote from power. Housing is part of the answer, but not in its current form. The discussion highlights the need for the right homes in the right places, including social rent, better options for downsizing, and development that is connected to transport and community need. Food, farming and countryside infrastructure are too often treated as niche issues, when in reality they are part of Sussex's long-term economic and social stability. 💬 What Paul says "People have a deep love for the Sussex countryside." "The countryside is not just economics. It's about health, wellbeing, and what makes Sussex an attractive place to be." "Growth, per se, is not necessarily a great outcome." "There's been something missing for a good long while now, which is strategic level planning." "You can never do democracy on the cheap." "The housing we need is housing for social rent." "Rural Sussex bus networks and indeed restoring some train services would make a really big difference to people's lives."
🎧 Production credits Host: Richard Freeman 📣 Get involved 👉 sussexandthecity.info — episodes, resources and events | |||
| #39: Why The Sussex Plan Doesn't Yet Add Up | 30 Mar 2026 | 00:32:14 | |
The Sussex And The City Podcast – Episode #40 Why The Sussex Plan Doesn't Yet Add Up Host: Richard Freeman 🔍 Episode summary Local government in Sussex is on the brink of its biggest structural change in decades. Councils may be merged, boundaries redrawn, and a new mayoral authority introduced - but what does that actually mean in practice? In this episode, Richard Freeman speaks with Peter Lamb, MP for Crawley and former leader of Crawley Borough Council, about the realities behind local government reorganisation and devolution. Recorded just before the government delayed its decision on Sussex's future structure, this provocative conversation offers a candid, insider perspective on how these reforms are being shaped, and challenged, from within. Peter brings a rare combination of experience: a former council leader who understands how local government works on the ground, now sitting in Parliament as part of the governing party. His view is direct and, at times, sharply critical of his own government. Together they explore whether the case for reorganisation still holds, what's at stake for places like Crawley, and whether devolution can genuinely deliver better outcomes for Sussex - or simply add another layer of complexity. This episode is brought to you in partnership with Crawley Innovation Centre. Located at the heart of Manor Royal, one of the South East's most significant business districts, Crawley Innovation Centre provides flexible workspace, meeting facilities and on-site support for growing companies. Designed for start-ups, scale-ups and established teams, it offers a professional base without unnecessary friction, alongside a strong focus on collaboration and community. With excellent transport links, including easy access to Gatwick, it connects Sussex businesses to national and international markets. Find out more at crawley-ic.co.uk 🎯 In this episode
🧠 Key themes Local government reorganisation is being driven as much by politics as by economics. The original argument around cost savings appears weaker when applied to smaller, proposed unitary authorities. There is a growing tension between efficiency and accountability. Larger councils may streamline services, but risk becoming too distant from the communities they serve. Sussex is not a single, unified economy. It is a collection of distinct areas - coastal, rural and urban - each with different priorities, which makes a single governance model difficult to get right. Devolution still offers potential benefits, particularly in transport, housing and economic coordination. But the current approach may not align with how people actually live and work across the region. The balance between local identity and regional strategy remains unresolved, and will shape whether these reforms succeed or fail. 💬 What Peter says "The case for reorganisation just doesn't stack up financially in the way it's being presented." "You end up with local government that's too big to be accountable and too distant to understand communities." "Crawley is a very different economy to much of Sussex, and that matters when you're designing governance." "Devolution is the right idea. But the way we're doing it risks missing the point." "You can't build a strategy if you don't understand how places actually function." ENJOY THESE PODCASTS? PLEASE SUPPORT OUR CROWDFUNDER Every £ supports production costs. Join us for a special online briefing and Q+A on April 30th 🎧 Production credits Host: Richard Freeman 📣 Get involved 👉 https://sussexandthecity.info — episodes, resources and events | |||
| #38: Universities, Knowledge And The Future Of Sussex Prosperity (Part One) | 16 Mar 2026 | 00:36:10 | |
The Sussex And The City Podcast – Episode #38 Universities, Knowledge And The Future Of Sussex Prosperity (Part One) Host: Richard Freeman Guest: Joanna Havers - Associate Director for Knowledge Exchange, University of Brighton 🔍 Episode summary Universities are often discussed in terms of teaching and research. But there is a third role that is becoming increasingly important: knowledge exchange. In this episode, Richard Freeman speaks with Jo Havers, Associate Director for Knowledge Exchange at the University of Brighton, about the role universities play in shaping the Sussex economy, partnerships and innovation. As the conversation around devolution and a potential Sussex mayoral authority gathers pace, the role of universities as anchor institutions becomes critical. Universities connect research, talent and ideas with businesses, public services and communities - but their contribution to local growth is often poorly understood. Jo sits right at that intersection between the university and the wider world. Her work focuses on building partnerships that link research, student talent and industry needs with real economic and social outcomes. Together they explore how universities are hoping to help shape the next chapter of Sussex's economic story. ---- This episode is brought to you in partnership with Plus Accounting. Founded in Brighton in 1992, Plus Accounting is the city's leading B Corp-certified firm of chartered accountants, supporting businesses that are shaping the Sussex economy. Their clients range from video game studios and creative agencies to hospitality brands, life sciences companies, property developers and fast-growing tech firms. Whether you're launching a start-up, scaling a business, or running a long-established organisation, Plus offers specialist support in tax planning, audit, R&D tax relief, and strategic business advice. They combine technical expertise with a genuine understanding of the local economy — helping businesses grow sustainably and responsibly. To find out more, visit plusaccounting.co.uk
--- 🎯 In this episode
🧠 Key themes: Modern universities are no longer simply places of teaching and research. They increasingly act as civic partners, connecting knowledge, research and talent with local economic and social challenges. Sussex has strong sectors - from creative industries and engineering to green growth and digital technology - but they are dispersed rather than clustered. That creates resilience but makes it harder to tell a clear economic story. Skills policy often focuses on lower-level training. But a regional growth strategy must also include graduate talent, research capability and innovation capacity. A Sussex mayor could provide the coordinated leadership and national voice needed to bring together universities, businesses and public institutions around a shared regional strategy. What Jo says"Knowledge exchange is really what it says on the tin; taking academic learning and asking how it can benefit society, culture, communities and the economy." "Sussex isn't a single industrial cluster. It's a conurbation of different strengths, and we need to start telling that story." "Students want to stay here. The challenge is creating the opportunities that allow them to do that." "Productivity can't just mean more jobs and more output. It has to mean better outcomes for people and communities." --- ENJOY THESE PODCASTS? PLEASE SUPPORT OUR CROWDFUNDER Every £ supports production costs. --- 🎧 Production credits Host: Richard Freeman 📣 Get involved 👉 https://sussexandthecity.info — episodes, resources and events | |||
| #37: Can Dolphins Be A Symbol Of A Prosperous Future Sussex? | 02 Mar 2026 | 00:32:31 | |
The Sussex And The City Podcast – Episode #37 Can Dolphins Be A Symbol Of A Prosperous Future Sussex? Host: Richard Freeman Guest: Lloyd Gofton – Director, Sussex Dolphin Project 🔍 Episode summary Richard is joined by Lloyd Gofton, ocean communications specialist, conservation leader and Director of the Sussex Dolphin Project. Together they explore how dolphins have become more than a remarkable coastal sighting, but instead emerging instead as a symbol of a future Sussex that is environmentally ambitious, science-led and ready to place its natural assets at the heart of its identity and growth. With more than 25 years' experience in communications, Lloyd began his career in PR, marketing and digital strategy, running his own agency for over a decade and working with global brands and NGOs including WWF, Greenpeace, RSPCA and Médecins Sans Frontières. A mid-career shift into conservation saw him move from corporate storytelling to environmental campaigning, later working with Wildlife Heritage Areas, Conservation Careers and Blue Planet Society. In Sussex, he is best known as one of the driving forces behind the Sussex Dolphin Project. Since 2018, the volunteer-led initiative has gathered vital data on dolphins, whales and porpoises in the eastern English Channel – an area long overlooked in formal marine research. What began as a mission to prove cetaceans are present off the Sussex coast has grown into a pan-Sussex citizen science movement spanning Brighton, Worthing, Eastbourne, Hastings and beyond. Pods of up to 500 dolphins, humpback whale sightings and thousands of public reports are reshaping how residents see their own coastline. Dolphins, Lloyd explains, are the "gateway species" to ocean literacy – a compelling hook that draws people into wider questions about biodiversity, protection and our relationship with the sea. As Sussex considers devolution and a new era of regional identity, this episode asks whether the ocean could move from backdrop to centre stage; as science, skills, wellbeing and sustainable economic opportunity. ---- This episode is brought to you in partnership with Newhaven Enterprise Zone. Newhaven Enterprise Zone's mission is to transform Newhaven into a thriving and dynamic business destination by 2030, with a repurposed town centre designed to support growth sectors and boost the economy. Its investment plan includes seven key initiatives, including targeted grant programmes to drive productivity, business growth and inward investment – helping to create sustainable, inclusive jobs that benefit the whole community. For the wider Sussex economy, this signals a shift towards higher value employment, stronger skills pipelines and enterprise rooted firmly in place. Newhaven Enterprise Zone is working to ensure Sussex leads rather than follows. Find out more at newhavenenterprisezone.com --- 🎯 Why this matters The English Channel is often framed as a shipping corridor. In reality, it is a biodiverse and globally significant marine environment. Citizen science projects like the Sussex Dolphin Project are turning community curiosity into usable research data, and local pride into conservation action. As devolution conversations focus on housing, transport and economic growth, this episode highlights the strategic importance of natural capital, eco-tourism, marine research and environmental identity in shaping Sussex's long-term direction. If Sussex wants a distinctive regional narrative, the sea may be one of its strongest and most unifying assets. 🧠 Topics covered include: Lloyd's shift from corporate communications to ocean conservation --- ENJOY THESE PODCASTS? PLEASE SUPPORT OUR CROWDFUNDER Every £ supports production costs. --- 🎧 Production credits Host: Richard Freeman 📣 Get involved Have you spotted dolphins off the Sussex coast? 👉 https://sussexandthecity.info — episodes, resources and events | |||
| #36: From Vineyards To Data Labs - Don't Underestimate Sussex' Rural Economy | 15 Feb 2026 | 00:36:34 | |
The Sussex And The City Podcast – Episode #36 From Vineyards To Data Labs - Don't Underestimate Sussex' Rural Economy Host: Richard Freeman Guest: Jeremy Kerswell – Principal & Chief Executive, Plumpton College
🔍 Episode summary Richard is joined by Jeremy Kerswell, Principal and Chief Executive of Plumpton College, one of the UK's last remaining independent specialist land-based colleges, set across 800 hectares at the foot of the South Downs. Plumpton is not an ordinary college campus. It is a commercial farm producing millions of litres of milk, a vineyard bottling tens of thousands of bottles each year, a butchery, a dairy, an equine centre, a horticultural hub in Brighton, and a major regional employer serving agriculture, viticulture, forestry and environmental management. Jeremy, who grew up in Sussex before returning a decade ago to lead the college, reflects on what it means to run an education institution that is also a business, a working estate and a skills engine for a sector facing national shortages. The conversation explores the productivity challenge in farming and food, the rapid advance of technology in land-based industries, and the growing demand for apprenticeships and higher-level technical skills. It also tackles rural transport barriers, infrastructure gaps and the reality that accessing education in Sussex is often far harder than it looks on a map. "Feeding the world and saving the planet are the two biggest global challenges we face – and they can be achieved in harmony." This episode asks whether devolution could finally align transport, housing, skills and economic growth in a way that works for rural Sussex just as much as its towns and cities. This episode is brought to you in partnership with Gaby Hardwicke Solicitors. Gaby Hardwicke is one of Sussex's most established law firms, supporting individuals, families and businesses across Eastbourne, Bexhill and Hastings. From commercial and employment law to family, property and dispute resolution, they anchor expert legal services firmly in the region. But a standout strength is their dedicated Rural & Agricultural team, advising farmers, estates and landowners on land management, diversification, succession, environmental schemes and the shifting economics of countryside life. In Sussex, where our rural economy, landscape and identity are entwined, this expertise matters. Gaby Hardwicke helps the county grow, adapt and protect what makes it unique, blending modern legal knowledge with deep local understanding. Visit gabyhardwicke.co.uk. 🎯 Why this matters Land-based industries are often dismissed as traditional or declining. In reality, they are technologically advanced, globally connected and facing significant skills shortages. Sussex's rural economy is central to its identity, landscape and visitor appeal – yet transport, infrastructure and fragmented governance make long-term planning difficult. Jeremy argues that if Sussex is to lead in sustainable land management, food innovation and environmental technology, it will need joined-up strategy, employer-led skills planning and fewer structural silos. 🧠 Topics covered include:
🎧 Production credits Host: Richard Freeman 📣 Get involved Should Sussex lead the UK in green growth and land-based innovation? 👉 https://sussexandthecity.info — episodes, resources and events | |||
| #35: Growing A Global Business In Sussex Could Be So Much Easier | 02 Feb 2026 | 00:34:22 | |
The Sussex And The City Podcast – Episode #35 Growing A Global Business In Sussex Could Be So Much Easier Host: Richard Freeman Richard is joined by Matt Barker, founder and chief executive of MPB, one of Sussex's biggest global business success stories - built from modest roots in Brighton and now operating at serious international scale. What began as an eBay side project while Matt was a student has grown into the world's largest platform for buying, selling and trading professional photography and video equipment, employing more than 500 people globally, with over half still based in Brighton. Matt talks candidly about why MPB succeeded because of Brighton's culture and creativity - and why it often succeeded in spite of the city's infrastructure, property market and lack of meaningful business engagement. The conversation ranges from devolution and leadership, to skills gaps, transport, commercial space, and his perception that there is a failure to recognise Sussex's own success stories until they're already global. "I don't think MPB would be what it is if it hadn't been founded in Brighton. But I also don't think Brighton really noticed us until about three years ago." This episode is about what it really takes to grow a business in Sussex - and what a future Sussex mayor will need to understand if devolution is going to deliver anything more than new structures and old habits. 🎯 Why this mattersMatt argues that Sussex risks missing a once-in-a-generation opportunity if devolution is shaped by the same voices, the same reports, and the same transactional approaches to business. If Sussex wants growth that sticks, and spreads beyond Brighton, it needs to understand why so many businesses never make it past a certain point, and why those that do often have to look elsewhere for leadership support. This is a challenge to policymakers, councils and future mayors: listen earlier, engage properly, and fix the basics. 🧠 Topics covered include:
MPB – company background and global platform 🎧 Production creditsHost: Richard Freeman Want devolution that actually works for businesses and places? 👉 https://sussexandthecity.info — episodes, resources and events | |||
| #34: Devolution Is Only As Local As It Feels | 19 Jan 2026 | 00:31:21 | |
The Sussex And The City Podcast – Episode #34 Devolution Is Only As Local As It Feels Host: Richard Freeman Richard is joined by Cllr Julia Hilton, Deputy Leader of Hastings Borough Council and one of Sussex's most outspoken voices on local government reorganisation and devolution. Julia brings a fiercely place-based perspective, shaped by her background as a landscape architect, artist and community organiser. The conversation is unapologetically Hastings-first; not as a brand or 'policy problem', but as a lived place with strong neighbourhood identities, deep inequalities, creative energy and a long memory of top-down regeneration that hasn't landed well. "We don't just accept the status quo. We always want to test stuff … bringing that creativity and that sort of slight edginess to parts of East Sussex that can feel a bit comfortable." Together, Richard and Julia dig into what devolution could actually mean for Hastings, and what it absolutely must avoid. They explore the risks of losing local knowledge through council reorganisation, the dangers of chasing abstract growth metrics, and why things like retrofitting homes, buses that work, and neighbourhood trust may matter more than glossy skills strategies with acronyms nobody asked for. This is a conversation about power close to the ground, and whether Sussex's next chapter will be written with towns like Hastings, or merely about them. This episode is brought to you in partnership with:Let's Do Business Finance – an accredited British Business Bank delivery partner, providing Start Up Loans and Growth Guarantee loans from £500 to £150,000 to hundreds of Sussex businesses since 2004. By filling the finance gap left by high street lenders, they've helped new ventures launch, supported businesses to invest in growth, and sustained local jobs across Sussex and beyond. 👉 https://letsdobusinessfinance.co.uk 🎯 Why this matters"What people want to see in Hastings is … really good quality council housing and affordable housing, upgrading our council stock, celebrating our heritage, celebrating our green spaces, and making the most of all those … Pretty much everyone will agree on that." Julia's argues that devolution without trust, local knowledge and meaningful measures of success risks repeating the mistakes Hastings has already lived through. 🧠 Topics covered include:
Host: Richard Freeman Want devolution that actually reflects lived places? 👉 https://sussexandthecity.info — episodes, resources and events. | |||
| #33: Devolution Can Make Us More 'Sussex'. But It Is A Big Leadership Challenge | 05 Jan 2026 | 00:46:27 | |
The Sussex And The City Podcast – Episode 33: Devolution Can Make Us More 'Sussex'. But It Is A Big Leadership ChallengeHost: Richard Freeman This episode opens a new year and a new series of Sussex And The City, recorded at a moment of political shift but strategic acceleration. Richard Freeman sits down with Peter Kyle MP – one of the most influential figures in the current government and a long-standing Sussex representative – to explore what devolution could actually mean for Sussex beyond the headlines. Peter reflects on his own Sussex story, growing up in Bognor Regis and West Sussex, leaving school with no qualifications, experiencing homelessness, and later finding opportunity through work, education and community organising. That lived experience runs through the conversation, shaping how he thinks about power, place, social mobility and leadership. The discussion ranges from the structural weaknesses of the Sussex economy – where ports, towns, universities and Gatwick all "point to London, not each other" – to the opportunities devolution could unlock if leadership is used to connect rather than centralise. This episode grapples with big questions:
"It's not about trying to change Sussex – just trying to make us more Sussex." This episode is brought to you in partnership with:Kreston Reeves – one of the UK's leading accountancy and advisory firms, and one of the first to achieve B Corp status. With offices in Brighton, Chichester and across the South East, Kreston Reeves works with ambitious businesses, charities and individuals across manufacturing, education, property, tech and the arts. From tax strategy and audit to succession planning and ESG reporting, their advice combines national expertise with deep local knowledge. 🎯 Why this mattersSussex is entering a long transition period. The mayoral election timetable may have shifted, but the decisions shaping the region's future are already being made. Peter argues that devolution is not a tidy fix, but a leadership test; one that requires bridging deep economic, geographic and political divides. "We are a divided set of communities – and that shouldn't be the case." The episode challenges the idea that growth alone is enough, asking how infrastructure, skills, housing, transport and opportunity can be aligned so that prosperity spreads rather than concentrates. 🧠 Topics covered include:
"The mayoralty isn't going to take power away from everywhere – but it will have the ability to facilitate." 📚 Further reading and references
Host: Richard Freeman Want to understand what devolution really means for Sussex? 👉 sussexandthecity.info — episodes, resources and events. | |||
| #32: EMERGENCY PODCAST! | 04 Dec 2025 | 00:08:26 | |
The Sussex And The City Podcast – Episode 32: EMERGENCY PODCAST! Host: Richard Freeman The government is set to delay the first elections for newly created regional mayors in four areas - Greater Essex, Norfolk and Suffolk, Hampshire and the Solent, and Sussex and Brighton. The BBC reports that ballots originally scheduled for May 2026 will now be held in 2028, with a formal announcement expected shortly. These mayoralties are the political centrepiece of the government's drive to devolve power and fast-track regional growth. Mayors will chair new strategic authorities with powers over transport, housing, skills and, in some areas, policing. Pushing the polls back delays who will set priorities, who will bid for investment, and who will hold authority over major local programmes - just as unitary council reorganisation is being completed. Government reasoning vs political reaction
Those following the Sussex And The City project since May will recognise this as a familiar concern. But others think the move is politically charged. The Conservatives' James Cleverly has already accused the administration of "subverting democracy". Reform UK's Zia Yusuf suggested ministers were trying to blunt his party's chances, while the Liberal Democrats' Zoe Franklin warned "democracy delayed is democracy denied." What this means for Sussex & Brighton
But it will only be accepted by local voters if the extra time is used to finish the structural work and to show, with practical, visible plans, that the mayoralty will deliver better services and clearer local leadership. Sussex And The City So, this was always a possibility, but is big news we didn't expect today. You tell us - would you like us to continue this project until the elections take place, or do you think we need to pause until nearer the time? 🎧 Production credits Host: Richard Freeman Want a joined-up Sussex story? Want to help shape devolution so it actually works for people and places? 👉 https://sussexandthecity.info — episodes, resources and events. | |||
| #31: Why I Want To Be Mayor (Part Five) | 01 Dec 2025 | 00:36:29 | |
The Sussex And The City Podcast – Episode 31: Why I Want To Be Mayor (Part Five) Host: Richard Freeman In this wide-ranging conversation, Richard sits down with Martin Webb — a man whose CV could easily be many separate careers. Martin was a defining figure in Brighton's 90s and 00s nightlife, running clubs, bars and restaurants across the city. He has also ran his own local media empire, been a business mentor on Channel 4, a columnist for The Telegraph, a small business author, and, in a twist that surprises many, a frontline volunteer police sergeant for nearly a decade. Now he's running as the only declared independent candidate for Mayor of Sussex & Brighton - self-funding the campaign, clocking up millions of TikTok views, and arguing that Sussex needs "a very honest, grounded, authentic approach" untied to party politics. The conversation explores how his life in hospitality, policing and community work informs his vision for the new mayoralty; a role Martin describes as "not about me at all. It's about getting the best outcomes for Sussex and Sussex people." He has views on housing, anti-social behaviour, nightlife, farming, collaboration between towns, and the "post-Brighton" identity crisis Sussex needs to solve to make devolution work. This episode is brought to you in partnership with:THE GIFT @ The Old Market Home of THE GIFT, a bold new winter feast-game-ritual-show running 3–21 December, step inside The Old Market in Hove for a 360° world of live music, cabaret artists, clowns, communal play and Sussex-made food from Mallow, Pio Mai and CLOUD NINE. Inspired by Columbia's Theatre of the Senses, America's Burning Man and Berlin's Social Muscle Club, THE GIFT is about connection, mischief and the messy joy of being alive. Get tickets this Christmas from 👉 theoldmarket.com 🎯 Why this matters"I want to be an independent now. For many voters, the idea of a non-party mayor - one who refuses donors and funds the campaign personally - challenges the assumption that the mayoralty must be run by a big political machine. Martin argues that independence is not a gimmick, but the only way to escape party whipping and focus solely on place first, politics second. He also speaks frankly about the state of Sussex: "People are fed up with how dangerous our streets are, how much housing costs, how much of our environment is at risk from massive over-development." He says his proposed solutions - from Sussex Marshals to a countywide buying group - reflect his entrepreneurial background, his voluntary policing experience, and his belief that 'common-sense' collaboration has been missing. 🧠 Topics covered include:
"From week one, I'll be tackling the crisis we have got with anti-social behaviour, theft and shoplifting." 📚 Further reading and references
Host: Richard Freeman Want a joined-up Sussex story? Want to help shape devolution so it actually works for people and places? 👉 https://sussexandthecity.info — episodes, resources and events. | |||
| #30: Opportunity In Sussex Starts With Being Seen | 24 Nov 2025 | 00:31:21 | |
The Sussex And The City Podcast – Episode 30: Opportunity In Sussex Starts With Being Seen Host: Richard Freeman In this week's episode, Richard meets Donna O'Toole - multi-award-winning entrepreneur, awards strategist and lifelong Sussex resident - whose journey from Arundel Castle to global business owner is as remarkable as it is rooted in place. Donna grew up in the grounds of Arundel Castle, where her family worked as part of the staff, before entering care at aged 15 and being given an unusual, life-shaping choice: foster care, a children's home, or what she recalls as "a home for girls with potential". She took the third option, kickstarting a life defined by resilience, ambition and a razor-sharp instinct for spotting opportunity. By 19 she had founded Sussex's first dental nurse agency; in her 30s she returned to education, graduating in English Linguistics from the University of Sussex; and today she runs an international recognition consultancy from the tiny village of Chailey — proving, quite happily, that world-class businesses don't need glass towers. Richard and Donna explore Sussex's confidence problem, the county's quietly world-class business ecosystem, and why a future Mayor must pay attention to the overlooked arts of storytelling and narrative. Donna argues that too many Sussex businesses stay small not for lack of potential, but for lack of visibility, and that giving people the courage to "pitch up, not shrink down" could change the shape of our local economy. This episode is a generous, grounded and surprisingly emotional reminder that recognition isn't always vanity, it can be fuel for bigger things. This episode is brought to you in partnership with:YMCA Downslink Group - For over a century, the YMCA has been supporting young people across Sussex and Surrey. Every night, they provide safe housing for more than 650 young individuals facing homelessness, offering not just shelter but also the support needed to rebuild their lives. Beyond housing, this charity delivers a range of services including mental health counselling through YMCA Dialogue, family mediation, and youth advice centres in Brighton & Hove and Crawley. Their e-wellbeing platform offers digital mental health resources tailored for young people. They reach over 7,000 children, young people, and families each year, helping them navigate challenges and achieve their potential. To learn more or support their mission, visit ymcadlg.org. 🎯 Why this mattersSussex will soon elect its first ever Mayor; someone expected to champion the county, raise its national profile, and create space for ambition, growth and innovation across places that haven't always been encouraged to think big. Donna argues that starts with confidence: "You can achieve anything that you want to achieve, just so long as you believe in yourself and you set some goals and you work at it." And with visibility: "Aim high and pitch up. You don't need to always think local… you're serving your clients nationally. So why are you not getting national recognition?" Sussex isn't short of creativity, entrepreneurship or grit. But we are short of a shared narrative about success, and as Donna wants devolution to support a new strategy, confidence and culture change. 🧠 Topics covered include:
"It's hard to read the label when you're sitting inside the jam jar." 📚 Further reading and references
Host: Richard Freeman Want a joined-up Sussex story? Want to help shape devolution so it actually works for people and places? 👉 https://sussexandthecity.info — episodes, resources and events. | |||
| #29: Sussex Money Matters: Tackling Debt And Building Trust | 17 Nov 2025 | 00:29:58 | |
The Sussex And The City Podcast – Episode 29: Sussex Money Matters: Tackling Debt And Building Trust Host: Richard Freeman What if the future of devolution wasn't just about power – but about money that stays in Sussex? In this episode, Richard Freeman talks to Emma Norledge, Deputy Chief Executive of Wave Community Bank, a not-for-profit credit union helping thousands of people across East Sussex, Brighton and Kent access fair, local finance. Credit unions aren't really banks as we know them; they're still fully regulated by the Financial Services Authority but act as people-powered cooperatives that keep savings circulating in local economies. In an era of financial exclusion, payday loans and disappearing high street banks, Emma explains how Wave's model of 'people helping people' is focused on transforming lives, from rent deposit schemes to small loans and financial education. They explore what devolution might mean for community finance, why money and wellbeing are inseparable, and how a Sussex mayor could champion smarter, fairer funding systems that rebuild trust from the ground up. "Credit unions get in your soul and you believe in what you do; and it's not an industry, it's a movement." This episode is brought to you in partnership with:YMCA Downslink Group - For over a century, the YMCA has been supporting young people across Sussex and Surrey. Every night, they provide safe housing for more than 650 young individuals facing homelessness, offering not just shelter but also the support needed to rebuild their lives. Beyond housing, this charity delivers a range of services including mental health counselling through YMCA Dialogue, family mediation, and youth advice centres in Brighton & Hove and Crawley. Their e-wellbeing platform offers digital mental health resources tailored for young people. They reach over 7,000 children, young people, and families each year, helping them navigate challenges and achieve their potential. To learn more or support their mission, visit ymcadlg.org. 🎯 Why this matters"Councils will come to us and say, 'We'd like to do this – what do you think?' And we might say, 'Well, that won't work for that reason, but we could do it this way.'" 🧠 Topics covered include:
"There hasn't been a bank in Newhaven for years… and that is an opportunity for the credit unions to step in and say, 'We are here, and we do help you, and we do care.'" 📚 Further reading and references
Host: Richard Freeman Want a joined-up Sussex story? Want to help shape devolution so it actually works for people and places? 👉 https://sussexandthecity.info — episodes, resources and events. | |||
| #28: Why Sussex Needs To Look After Its Shopkeepers | 10 Nov 2025 | 00:30:20 | |
The Sussex And The City Podcast – Episode 28: Why Sussex Needs To Look After Its Shopkeepers Host: Richard Freeman In this episode, Richard Freeman talks with Shiv Misra, founder of Kindly, a Brighton homegrown supermarket with a difference; fair prices, no plastic, and no gimmicks. Shiv's story is one of grit, optimism and retail reform, building something sustainable in every sense of the word. From taking over the old HISBE store to juggling a day job in IT and and growing a new model of retail, Shiv explains what independent retailers really need to survive: lower rates, shared logistics, smarter supply chains and genuine support from local government. Could a region built on small business pride could use devolution to back its entrepreneurs; the grocers, cafés, makers and market traders who give Sussex its identity? This episode is a good companion to #24 with Rachael Dines. "If the big players don't do it, then more of the small players need to — so people still get the convenience and choice they need." This episode is brought to you in partnership with:Shake It Up Creative – the Worthing-based marketing and web agency helping organisations stand out with style, strategy and substance. From brand builds and slick websites to demystifying PR and SEO, they're known for straight-talking advice and a collaborative mindset. The team runs free online help sessions via #ShakeItHub and offers pro bono mentoring through BIPC, Community Works and Enterprise Nation. Finalists at the 2025 Independent Agency Awards for Best Promotional Campaign, they prove bold, beautiful marketing is possible with small teams and smart budgets. 🎯 Why this matters "People want to do good, but they don't want to do it at the cost of either convenience or choice. We're trying to bring in a food revolution where we change the way we consume things." 🧠 Topics covered include:
Host: Richard Freeman Want a joined-up Sussex story? Want to help shape devolution so it actually works for people and places? 👉 https://sussexandthecity.info — episodes, resources and events. | |||
| #27: Is Art Sussex' Civic Superpower? | 03 Nov 2025 | 00:34:46 | |
The Sussex And The City Podcast – Episode 27: Is Art Sussex' Civic Superpower? Host: Richard Freeman In this conversation, Richard Freeman sits down with artist mentor, curator and Pure Arts Group founder Lesley Samms – a powerhouse advocate for visual artists across Sussex and beyond. Lesley shares her journey from leaving behind corporate success at Coca-Cola to becoming a champion of grassroots creativity, community connection and artistic confidence. Based in Battle, she has built networks that help artists find purpose, audiences and each other. The conversation explores what Sussex's visual-arts story reveals about the county's identity; from Charleston and Farleys Farm to Hastings Fat Tuesday, Coastal Currents and beyond. Lesley calls for a new regional strategy for the arts, one that values experimentation, supports young artists, and ensures the creative economy doesn't just survive but thrives under devolution. "Don't wait to be discovered - lift up the talent that's already here." This episode is brought to you in partnership with: Creative Crawley – since becoming a charitable trust in 2021, Creative Crawley has transformed Crawley into a creative hub with a year-round programme of public performances, exhibitions and workshops across pop-up venues and makerspaces. Their flagship Creative Playground initiative, backed by a £1 million Arts Council England grant, has supported artist residencies and community co-creation projects, while the pilot Creative Village is testing the potential for a permanent cultural hub to sustain local artists and drive economic growth. Through partnerships with local, national and international artists, educators and creative organisations, Creative Crawley is nurturing new creative economies, inspiring civic pride, and redefining cultural leadership in the South East. 🎯 Why this matters "Visual artists aren't decoration. They're what make places human; they connect us, they challenge us, they make us think." 🧠 Topics covered include:
"Art isn't just there to look pretty. It's there to make you feel something; to remind you that there's more than one way to see the world." 📚 Further reading and references
🎧 Production credits Host: Richard Freeman Want a joined-up Sussex story? Want to help shape devolution so it actually works for people and places? 👉 https://sussexandthecity.info — episodes, resources and events. | |||
| #26: Can Sussex Lead On Closing The Loop? | 26 Oct 2025 | 00:31:14 | |
The Sussex And The City Podcast – Episode 26: Can Sussex Lead On Closing The Loop? Host: Richard Freeman In this conversation, Richard Freeman sits down with Steve Creed – a Canadian-born sustainability consultant and leading voice in Sussex's circular-economy movement. Steve has spent decades connecting the dots between food, housing, transport, climate and culture, helping councils, housing groups and social enterprises to think differently about waste and regeneration. As co-founder of Circular Brighton & Hove and Vice Chair of the Adur Community Land Trust, he's long argued that Sussex could be a test-bed for joined-up, low-waste, regenerative growth – if it stops treating every issue in isolation. The discussion (a good companion to episode 20, and our chat with Jenny Andersson) explores Earth Overshoot Day, trust in politics, measuring real progress, and why the circular economy is less about jargon and more about people, compost and community power. Steve believes devolution is not a tidy fix, but a rare window to design something better — if civil society leads the charge before the politicians do. "In the forest, there's no waste. Trees fall, rot, feed the soil - everything has a purpose. The circular economy is just learning from that." This episode is brought to you in partnership with: DMH Stallard – one of the South East's most respected full-service law firms, combining technical expertise with a pragmatic, human approach. With offices across Sussex, DMH Stallard advises individuals, businesses and public bodies across property, planning, dispute resolution, employment and private client services, and is particularly active in real-estate development and public-sector growth. The firm also proudly supports community and cultural projects across the region, investing time and expertise in the places where its teams live and work.
🎯 Why this matters "Trust is missing. Maybe the grassroots have to rebuild it first - business, civil society, local innovators - before the politicians catch up." 🧠 Topics covered include:
"Any mayor who wants to succeed will need new ways to measure progress — not just GDP, but how long it takes Sussex to reach Earth Overshoot Day." 📚 Further reading and referencesCircular Brighton & Hove – local hub for sustainable systems change Brighton & Hove City Council – Circular Economy Route Map Brighton & Hove Food Partnership – Community Composting and Food Networks Global Footprint Network – Earth Overshoot Day Data and Country Dashboards Sussex Bay – Seascape Restoration Partnership West of England Combined Authority – Green Innovation 🎧 Production creditsHost: Richard Freeman Want a joined-up Sussex story? Want to help shape devolution so it actually works for people and places? 👉 https://sussexandthecity.info — episodes, resources and events. | |||
| #25: Why I Want To Be Mayor (Part Four) | 19 Oct 2025 | 00:34:24 | |
The Sussex And The City Podcast – Episode 25: Why I Want To Be Mayor (Part Four) Host: Richard Freeman In this special episode, Richard Freeman sits down with Ben Dempsey, the newly selected Liberal Democrat candidate for Mayor of Sussex & Brighton – and only the second confirmed name on the ballot paper for the 2026 election. Born and raised in Haywards Heath, educated at the University of Sussex, and with a career spanning international development, humanitarian aid and environmental conservation, Ben makes the case that he can link global experience with deep local roots. They discuss why he's running, how he plans to unite a politically fragmented county, and why he believes fairness, civility and practical action must define Sussex's new devolved future. From housing and buses to biodiversity and local democracy, this is a grounded conversation about what leadership might look like for a county ready to reinvent itself. "If we can capture a proud Sussex identity - radical, creative, beautiful - that's our untapped economic power." This episode is brought to you in partnership with: Shake It Up Creative – the Worthing-based marketing and web agency helping businesses stand out with style, strategy and substance. Whether it's building a slick website, crafting a brand from scratch, or demystifying PR and SEO, Shake It Up brings clarity and confidence to marketing. Known for their collaborative mindset and straight-talking advice, they've supported hundreds of startups, charities and SMEs through their #ShakeItHub initiative and mentoring with BIPC, Community Works and Enterprise Nation. 🏆 Finalists at the 2025 Independent Agency Awards for Best Promotional Campaign. 🎯 Why this matters "A Sussex mayor will only work if we show early wins - and buses are the place to start." 🧠 Topics covered include:
"We can weave nature into a landscape that contains people. That's what Sussex has always done." 📚 Further reading and references
Host: Richard Freeman Want a joined-up Sussex story? Want to help shape devolution so it actually works for people and places? 👉 https://sussexandthecity.info — episodes, resources and events. | |||
| #24: Sussex Microbusinesses Are Hiding In Plain Sight | 12 Oct 2025 | 00:30:18 | |
The Sussex And The City Podcast – Episode 24: Sussex Microbusinesses Are Hiding In Plain Sight Host: Richard Freeman In this episode, Richard Freeman talks with Rachael Dines, founder of Worthing-based marketing agency Shake It Up Creative and a well-known voice in the Sussex small business community. Rachel has worked at the heart of Sussex's microbusiness ecosystem, from mentoring start-ups to leading creative collaborations. Together, she and Richard explore what makes the network economy of Sussex so distinctive: thousands of small, agile firms driving innovation, culture, and growth - but often without the visibility, confidence, or joined-up strategy they deserve. They discuss how devolution could reshape business support, how manufacturing and creative sectors can connect better, and why Sussex needs to define what Brand Sussex actually means if it's to compete nationally and internationally. This is a candid, funny, and grounded conversation about ambition, burnout, and building something bigger, together. "We're brilliant at starting things, but not always at finishing them. Devolution could give us the long-term stability to see plans through." This episode is brought to you in partnership with: DMH Stallard, one of the region's most respected full-service law firms - combining technical expertise with a pragmatic, human approach. Whether advising individuals, businesses, or public sector bodies, they are known for delivering clear, commercially sound legal solutions. From property and planning law to dispute resolution, employment, and private client services, the firm's multi-disciplinary teams work closely with clients at every stage. In Sussex, they are particularly active in real estate, development, and supporting local government and growth sectors. DMH Stallard is also a proud supporter of community and cultural projects across the South East, investing time and expertise into the places where their teams live and work. To explore their services or get in touch, visit dmhstallard.com 🎯 Why this matters"If you can't control it, at least have your say; be heard. That's the kind of place I want to live in." 🧠 Topics covered include:
"If we have a Sussex mayor, I just hope they're someone who can see the bigger picture - who gets into communities and actually listens." 📚 Further reading and references 🎧 Production creditsHost: Richard Freeman Want a joined-up Sussex story? Want to help shape devolution so it actually works for people and places? 👉 https://sussexandthecity.info — episodes, resources and events. | |||
| #23: Minding The Gap - Sussex Transport And Transparency | 05 Oct 2025 | 00:29:39 | |
The Sussex And The City Podcast – Episode 23: Minding The Gap - Sussex Transport And Transparency Host: Richard Freeman In this episode, Richard speaks with Paul Bromley, former political journalist, local newspaper editor, and now a leading voice in community rail and sustainable transport. From Brighton to Bognor, Hastings to Haywards Heath – Sussex's transport network is both its greatest enabler and its biggest frustration. Paul unpacks what a Sussex Mayor could actually do to fix the tangle of private operators, bus companies, and disjointed infrastructure, and how new devolution powers could transform how we move around the region. They also discuss the collapse of local journalism, the decline of regional scrutiny, and whether a new mayoral structure could spark a renaissance in accountability media across Sussex. This is an episode about Minding The Gap - Sussex Transport And Transparency – from trains and timetables to truth and trust. This episode is brought to you in partnership with: Morgan Sindall Construction – one of the UK's leading construction and regeneration groups with a growing footprint across Sussex. From education and healthcare to urban regeneration and sustainable housing, Morgan Sindall is building a greener, fairer Sussex. The company invests in local supply chains, creates jobs and apprenticeships, and partners with councils and colleges to deliver community benefit on every project. 🎯 Why this matters "A Sussex Mayor will only work if they can achieve three things – funding, funding and funding." 🧠 Topics covered include:
"It's not about Brighton versus East Sussex or West Sussex – it's about seeing Sussex as a whole." 📚 Further reading and referencesSouth East Communities Rail Partnership Office of Rail and Road – Passenger Statistics 🎧 Production credits Host: Richard Freeman Want a joined-up Sussex story? Want to help shape devolution so it actually works for people and places? 👉 https://sussexandthecity.info — episodes, resources and events. | |||
| #22: "Communities have an expectation" | 28 Sep 2025 | 00:27:30 | |
The Sussex And The City Podcast – Episode 22: "Communities have an expectation" Host: Richard Freeman In this conversation, Richard sits down with Cllr Sophie Cox, Leader of Worthing Borough Council and one of the youngest council leaders in Sussex. Sophie took on the top job just days before the 2024 local elections – and now faces the challenge of steering Worthing through historic structural change. As district and borough councils prepare to merge into new unitaries by 2028, Sophie offers an honest, on-the-ground perspective on what this means for local democracy, frontline services and community power. She shares why Worthing's Thriving Together initiative is setting a new benchmark for participatory engagement, and how councils must learn when to lead, when to listen – and when to get out of the way. This episode asks big questions about how local government reorganisation and devolution intersect, and what's at stake for towns like Worthing as Sussex heads toward its first ever mayoral election in 2026. This episode is brought to you in partnership with: Digital Islands – established in 2017 by Gavin McWhirter, they deliver fully funded business support programmes in partnership with local authorities across Sussex, Hampshire and the Isle of Wight. From half-day workshops and one-to-one mentoring at the East Sussex Business Hub, to in-person marketing clinics and peer networking, they've helped hundreds of small firms start, grow and thrive. 🎯 Why this matters"Councils need to evolve and change as communities need us to – and sometimes that's about just getting out of the way and allowing things to happen naturally and organically." 🧠 Topics covered include:
"It doesn't have to start with another layer of government. We need to open up the conversation, look at all the options, and make sure community voice is truly embedded." 📚 Further reading and references🎧 Production credits Host: Richard Freeman Want a joined-up Sussex story? Want to help shape devolution so it actually works for people and places? 👉 https://sussexandthecity.info — episodes, resources and events. | |||
| #21: Why Brighton's Nightlife Matters For All Of Sussex | 21 Sep 2025 | 00:27:57 | |
The Sussex And The City Podcast – Episode 21: Why Brighton's Nightlife Matters For All Of Sussex Host: Richard Freeman Richard sits down with Nick Connaughton, the Australian-born co-director of The Old Market in Hove, to explore the realities of running an independent cultural venue at a time of financial pressure, rapid change, and new opportunities. Nick talks about The Old Market's history – from 19th century trading space to equestrian school, to an arts hub rescued by the creators of Stomp. Today, TOM thrives on "performance at the messy edges": projects that blur music, theatre, technology and community. This episode explores how Sussex's creative sector could tell a bigger regional story under devolution – and whether Brighton's nightlife and cultural ecosystem can survive without a bold, joined-up strategy that connects with the wider Sussex story. This episode is brought to you in partnership with: Galloways Accounting, Sussex's largest independent accountancy practice. With six offices from Worthing to Brighton to Eastbourne to Uckfield, they combine deep local knowledge with cutting-edge cloud accounting tools. They support family businesses, charities, tech start-ups and professional practices - helping clients streamline finances, manage cash flow and plan for growth. Their specialist teams in R&D tax credits, payroll and succession planning keep Sussex enterprises competitive and compliant. To see how Galloways powers smarter financial decisions across our county, visit wearegalloways.com 🎯 Why this matters "I wonder whether I had slightly rose-tinted glasses… because I think in my head, if Brighton and Sussex have it sorted, there's great arts institutions, great venues, great cultural organisations, an abundance of NPOs. They must be really well networked, connected together, and everything must flow really perfectly between them all. But I guess a lot of what I've come to realise… is that there is a lack of resource, there are very small teams, there is competition over audiences, competition over artists." 🧠 Topics covered include:
"It's trying to get back to, I think, what does a cultural ecosystem look like? Even looking at the example of a forest canopy: you need those really tall trees up there, but sometimes if they get too tall, they do block out a lot of the light underneath. And then, similarly, if you get too thick a mid-growth or an undergrowth, then everything starts to die out. So it's trying to think quite clearly about, what is our role in that ecosystem?" 📚 Further reading and references🎧 Production credits Host: Richard Freeman Want a joined-up Sussex story? Want to help shape devolution so it actually works for people and places? 👉 https://sussexandthecity.info — episodes, resources and events. | |||
| #20: From Polycrisis To Possibility: A Regenerative Sussex Vision | 14 Sep 2025 | 00:36:44 | |
The Sussex And The City Podcast – Episode 20: From Polycrisis To Possibility: A Regenerative Sussex Vision Host: Richard Freeman What if Sussex stopped "greening" the old system and started building a regenerative one? Richard talks with Jenny Andersson, whose Really Regenerative Centre helps places and organisations align economy, culture and ecology with living-systems principles. Jenny argues that Sussex could lead in bioregional transformation, from food systems and bio-based construction to cross-Channel place identity, but only if we drop short project cycles and back long-horizon, participatory, whole-place design. How can we think properly about scale vs. ecosystems, profit and purpose, and why a mayor must be a visionary convener, not just a manager. Jenny has spent a decade exploring regenerative design — aligning economy, culture and ecology with the principles that have sustained life for 3.8 billion years. She argues Sussex could lead the world in food reform, climate-friendly housing, and bio-based materials — but only if it dares to move beyond short projects and embrace long-term transformation. This episode is brought to you in partnership with: Kreston Reeves – one of the UK's leading accountancy and advisory firms and among the first to achieve B Corp status. With offices in Brighton, Chichester and beyond, they help Sussex organisations grow with clarity, confidence and purpose — from tax strategy and audit to ESG reporting and succession planning. "Over 1000s of years in Sussex, you can see that there's always been a culture of making, not making in vast numbers, but making small runs of incredibly high quality product." "This shift, this leap to having a regenerative economy, is about us learning how to really deeply and radically collaborate and look at the good of the whole before we look at individualism." 🧠 Topics covered include:
"We need a person who really understands… how do all those different stories of place come together in shared purpose to make a whole?" 📚 Further reading and referencesHost: Richard Freeman Want better public communication in Sussex? Want to help shape devolution so it actually works for people and places? | |||