Chichester residents have been advised to stay safe and warm over the next few days as the so called Beast from the East is set to arrive.
Chichester District Council have already cancelled this week’s farmer’s market due to the severe weather conditions, says councillor John Connor, cabinet member for environment services.
He explained: “At the moment, the snow is meant to reach our area on Thursday and Friday. Although we don’t like cancelling the Farmers’ Market, we feel that this is in the best interest of residents, visitors and the market stallholders.
“Heavy snow is due on Friday and so for safety reasons we feel that this is the right decision to make.”
The cold air and possibility of snow also means that refuse and recycling collections may also be affected, says Cllr Roger Barrow, cabinet member for resident services.
He said: “It is difficult to predict how bad the weather conditions are going to be. However, we want to reassure residents that if we can’t reach them on their usual day, we will empty their bin just as soon as we can.
“Residents just need to make sure that their bins are left out. We will also be providing regular updates on our website and social media sites.”
The temperature fell below zero on February 22nd and since then the council have been providing its severe weather provision for the homeless.
And Cllr Jane Kilby, cabinet member for housing, feels it is important to ensure everyone is safe and warm during these harsh weather conditions.
She explained: “We have been working with homeless charities and partners to make sure that all rough sleepers know about the provision. The temperature is incredibly cold at the moment and the weather conditions are predicted to get worse.
“We would encourage rough sleepers to visit the Stonepillow Day Centre at The Old Glassworks, St Cyriacs, Chichester, PO19 1AJ by 4pm each day to access this service.”
As well as taking care of yourself, the council are also advising residents to look out for vulnerable neighbours, friends and family members.
