See below.

Does surface improvement mean tarmac?

not usually – it’ll be compacted aggregate.

there’s more details here:

https://www.westsussex.gov.uk/news/downs-link-improvement-works-to-commence

Cool – gravel then.

I like this:

The project is being funded with a £558,000 grant from the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development following a successful bid from West Sussex County Council.

Deborah Urquhart, West Sussex County Council Cabinet Member for Safer, Stronger Communities, said: “It is really exciting to hear that work is now starting to improve the Downs Link.

“The new surface will make it much easier for walkers, cyclists and horse-riders to use the route all year long. This should increase the number of visitors to nearby towns and villages which will in turn help to boost the local rural economy.”

bloody EU – coming over here and funding our infrastructure to the benefit of local communities and gravel riders in the SE!!  Sooner we’re out the better.

bloody EU – coming over here and funding our infrastructure to the benefit of local communities and gravel riders in the SE!! Sooner we’re out the better.

I made a similar point on a local FB group when it was originally announced.

It seems a fair few people would rather carry their bike across waist deep mud for several miles during 7 months of the year than accept that any money from the EU might be put to good use.

I wish they’d tarmac the whole bloody thing!

Most unusual to see EU money round here! Bit odd they’re doing that section between Slinfold and Rudgwick though, as it’s already one of the better bits. Now the part between Baystone bridge and the A264, that really does need some work! Maybe that’s on the list for next year…

The new reroute at Christ’s Hospital station is good, no more huge muddy off camber bomb hole.

no more huge muddy off camber bomb hole.

Shame. That sounds like fun.

Surely EU money is our money coming back? However would our lot have funded this?