Lucinda Adam

Sompting Abbotts, an independent nursery and prep school near Lancing in West Sussex, has closed suddenly during the summer holidays after financial pressures made reopening impossible. Principal David Sinclair cited VAT on school fees and the wider economic climate, while the school had only 98 pupils enrolled against a capacity of 180. Staff face difficulty finding work at short notice. The closure follows the UK government’s introduction of VAT on private school fees in January 2025, alongside changes to national insurance and charitable business-rates relief, measures private schools have described as a severe financial burden.

UK government plans to expand Brighton and Hove’s boundary to include East Saltdean, Peacehaven and Telscombe have sparked strong opposition from leaders in East Sussex, who are considering legal action. Officials opposing the move argue it will increase density and alter coastal towns, while supporters say the change reflects residents’ lives and supports growth. Falmer will no longer be incorporated under revised proposals. West Sussex’s reorganisation has been delayed, creating continued uncertainty for local councils as shadow authorities are set for elections in 2027.

Peter Kyle said Andy Burnham remains committed to supporting southern England while pursuing plans to shift power northward, emphasising that the South’s economic needs differ and require regulatory reform rather than the investment focus needed elsewhere. Visiting Rolls-Royce in West Sussex ahead of the UK-India trade deal taking effect, he highlighted the automotive sector’s strategic importance and ambitions to expand small modular reactor production. The forthcoming trade agreement will significantly reduce tariffs on cars, whisky, gin and cosmetics, aiming to boost UK GDP by £4.8bn.

A newly formed Sussex and Brighton Strategic Authority has begun work to stimulate local growth, infrastructure and employment, allocating £117 million from a future £1.14 billion mayoral budget. Brighton & Hove Council leader Bella Sankey was elected as the first rotating chair until a mayor is chosen in 2028. Engineering graduates and apprentices at Elekta welcomed efforts to expand skilled job opportunities amid concerns about limited entry‑level roles. Authority leaders emphasised improving transport, skills, housing and investment, with a unified regional voice expected to strengthen lobbying efforts and support economic development across Sussex.