The well-attended March meeting of Lavant Parish Council covered a wide range of topics, with councillors working through a particularly full agenda that included several community projects and village improvements.

The future of the listed phone box on the A286 was covered, with the possibility of restoring it for community use. One suggestion is that it could become a children’s book exchange, an idea favoured by Lavant Primary school. The Council is in the process of seeking a quote for the restoration costs and will then look into any funding that may be available through contact with the Historic England team within SDNP. As this is likely to be a longer-term project, funding would be considered over time.

Councillors also reviewed traffic management across the village and agreed to ringfence £40,000 for future traffic calming measures. A detailed plan will now be developed before any funds are spent.

After a successful application to Chichester District Council’s free tree scheme, three lime trees have already been planted near the Memorial Hall, with further donated trees expected soon. It was agreed that a walnut tree will also be planted near the playground to replace one that was recently felled.

Plans to enhance the village pond area were approved, including the installation of low 'dead hedging'; logs to provide wildlife habitats, and an interpretation board explaining the site and its ecology.

Finally, two upcoming community events were discussed: A talk about the River Lavant will take place at Lavant Memorial Hall on Friday 20 March at 6.45pm, focusing on river restoration and how residents can support the local environment. As well as the annual Lavant Duck Race, which will be on Sunday 19 April this year.

The next meeting of Lavant Parish Council will take place on Tuesday 14 April 2026.

The full Draft Minutes are available to view here.