Crawley Borough Council is delighted to announce that contracts have been exchanged for a landmark development that will deliver 39 new council homes for local people, helping to ease pressure on the housing list and meet the growing need for affordable accommodation.

The scheme, located on the former ambulance station site, will provide 37 two-bedroom and two, one-bedroom apartments across six storeys, set alongside ancient woodland. All homes will be available for affordable rent and allocated to qualifying applicants on the council’s housing register.

Following delays caused by water neutrality requirements, this project is now set to become the first major affordable housing scheme to progress to construction. Work is expected to start in early 2026, with completion and occupation anticipated by the end of 2027.

This is fantastic news for Crawley. These new council homes will make a real difference to families who need secure, affordable housing. We’ve worked hard to overcome challenges and ensure this scheme goes ahead, and I’m proud that we’re delivering for our community.

Councillor Michael Jones

Leader

Crawley Borough Council

Affordable housing is one of our top priorities. This development will not only provide high-quality homes but also help reduce the pressure on our housing list. It’s a significant step forward for Crawley.

Councillor Ian Irvine

Cabinet member for Housing

Crawley Borough Council

All nominations will be made in line with the council’s housing allocations policy which includes a minimum five-year local connection with Crawley requirement.

The council has partnered with Tkei (Crawley) Ltd, a local SME developer, and Amarta, a local build contractor, under a unique turnkey arrangement. This approach ensures strong risk management and supports local businesses while delivering much-needed homes.

Contracts were formally exchanged on 27 October, with completion expected by mid-December when the council will take ownership of the land.

Jet2 has announced it is to offer flights from Gatwick Airport for the first time.

The airline said it had secured slots for six aircraft following the “release of additional capacity” by the airport.

Hundreds of jobs will be created in the region.

The airline will initially offer flights to 29 destinations.

West Sussex County Council is wanting feedback on proposals to improve two key routes in Horsham.

The proposals focus on Rusper Road and Guildford Road, both important routes for accessing schools, workplaces and local services.

The council  is considering a range of targeted measures, including improved crossings for pedestrians, bus priority features and road layout changes.

The consultation closes on 22 December 2025.

A man has been jailed for prolific shoplifting across West Sussex.

34-year-old, Daniel Rogers, stole over £2,900 worth of goods from supermarkets and retailers.

Rogers was arrested on 21 October and charged the same day with 13 counts of theft from a shop.

At Crawley Magistrates’ Court, he pleaded guilty on all counts. Rogers was jailed for six weeks.

Crawley Borough Council is proud to announce small grant funding awards to six organisations delivering services and activities for local residents. These grants will help strengthen community support, promote wellbeing, and provide opportunities for people of all ages and abilities.

The successful organisations and projects are:

• Chichester Diocesan Association Family Support Work — £850 awarded for supporting families in crisis with guidance on benefits, housing, debt, and access to grants, alongside practical help such as food deliveries and fuel support. Funding will contribute to project costs for an informal bereavement drop-in group. Visit the Family Support Work website for more information on their workOpens in new window
• Sport in Mind — £1,824 awarded for providing sport and physical activity sessions for people living with mental ill health, including badminton and table tennis at K2 Crawley and new tennis sessions at Crawley parks. Visit the Sport in Mind website for more information on their workOpens in new window
• West Green Women’s Institute (WI) — £225 awarded for supporting Wildflowers West Green WI with general running costs and hall hire for meetings and activities, including talks for members. Visit the Wildflowers West Green webpage on the WI website for more information on their workOpens in new window
• LPK Learning CIC — £2,477 awarded for delivering open-access learning sessions with tutors and workshops for children, young people, and families. Funding will help cover project costs for 2025 to 26.Visit the LPK Learning website for more information on their workOpens in new window
• British Down Syndrome Swimming — £2,500 awarded for hosting the DSS-GB National Swimming Championships at K2 Crawley in 2025 – the fourth annual event – attended by the Mayor. Visit the British Down Syndrome Swimming Championships webpage for more information on the eventOpens in new window
• Tapestry Day Club — £2,500 awarded for launch of a new day club in Crawley to support families affected by dementia, offering day activities for people with early-stage dementia and respite for carers. Visit the Tapestry Day Club website for more information on their workOpens in new window

These grants reflect our commitment to supporting local organisations that make a real difference to residents’ lives. From mental health and dementia support to learning opportunities and inclusive sports, these projects strengthen our community and improve wellbeing.

Councillor Sue Mullins

Cabinet member for Community Engagement and Culture

Crawley Borough Council

Small grants of up to £2,500 are available for local community groups and voluntary organisations supporting Crawley residents and groups in need. For more information about small grants and how to apply, visit our community webpages