A new initiative is underway to grow the production and consumption of local food across Sussex and the South Downs and local people, producers, and businesses are being invited to help shape the vision.
Led by the Arun and Chichester Food Partnership, the Sussex & South Downs Local Food Plan aims to create a food system where more of what we eat is produced, processed, sold, and eaten within the region. This means shorter, more transparent supply chains that benefit our economy, environment, and communities.
The work has been informed by local food summits and stakeholder discussions, including a spring event attended by Greater Brighton representatives, where farmers, growers, retailers, community food organisations, and public sector leaders explored how to build a food system that’s fairer, more resilient, and better for nature.
The Food Plan is being developed in response to growing challenges and opportunities in the sector — from the need to restore nature and strengthen supply chains, to improving food access, health, and regional self-sufficiency. It also supports Greater Brighton’s commitments to sustainable economic development and climate resilience.
Why local food matters
- Economy: The food sector is one of Sussex’s largest employers. A thriving local food economy keeps more money circulating locally, creates jobs, and supports small and medium-sized enterprises.
- Health: Increasing access to fresh, seasonal, and nutritious local food supports healthier diets and reduces reliance on highly processed imports.
- Resilience: Shorter, regional supply chains are more robust in the face of global shocks, climate change, and food system disruptions.
- Environment: Local food production can support biodiversity, soil health, and reduce food miles especially when linked to regenerative farming and circular systems.
Innovative initiatives such as Sussex Grazed (meat boxes from conservation-grazed animals), Fork and Dig It (community-supported agriculture in Brighton), and Sussex Six (a local campaign to drive demand for local products led by Horsham District Council and Natural Partnerships CIC) show how diverse models can reconnect people with where their food comes from and how it’s produced.
Now it’s your turn to shape the future
To help inform the development of the Sussex and South Downs Food Plan, the Food Partnership is calling:
- Local producers in East Sussex, Brighton & Hove, West Sussex and Hampshire to share insights about the challenges and opportunities in growing and selling local food.
- Consumers and residents in East Sussex, Brighton & Hove, West Sussex and Hampshire to give feedback on what they want to see more of in their food system.
📝 Take the survey today. It is open to producers and the public.
📅 A draft report and action plan has been published.
Collaboration is key. With support from partners across Greater Brighton and the wider Sussex area, the food plan aims to unlock investment, strengthen connections between producers and consumers, and build the infrastructure needed for a flourishing local food economy — from shared processing facilities to public procurement in schools and hospitals.
To learn more about the food plan and upcoming opportunities to get involved, visit the Arun and Chichester Food Partnership website.