Closure threat to home

The council announced on Wednesday they were drawing up plans for a consultation on the closure of Ball Tree Croft in Western Road North, but only after alternative services have been developed.

The new services will include supported living and new residential services.

Ball Tree Croft is home to 16 adults with learning difficulties. The home also supports a number of people with physical and communication problems.

The plans are part of a new project by West Sussex called A Place to Live.

County councillor Lionel Barnard said: "This project will change the lives of many people with learning difficulties in West Sussex for the better, giving them a greater degree of control and choice over how and where they live.

"There will be changes and we will be consulting with residents, relatives and staff at every stage throughout the process, to make sure everyone has the opportunity to have their say.

"This is important, because the whole point of the project is to give people with learning difficulties a greater say on how they live their lives."