Work to install support scaffolding is well under way and on schedule.

This week specialist contractors have completed scaffolding on the side wall of the Angel Inn. Contractors are also making good progress on installing the scaffolding to support the façade of the Angel Inn.

Next week work will begin to install support scaffolding on the adjacent building and contractors will be working longer days until 7pm.

A number of chimneys will then have to be demolished, or removed down to a safe height, as they are at risk of uncontrolled collapse.

The seven-week programme (from 15 May) is on track, and we will continue to provide weekly updates on progress.  Once the work is completed, we will hand over to West Sussex County Council, as the Highways Authority, to reopen the road.

We have produced an FAQs specifically around the shoring up work and this can be found at www.southdowns.gov.uk/midhurst-fire-updates/

The multi-agency recovery group has also created a more detailed FAQs, prepared by Chichester District Council which includes information about business support and highways issues. The FAQs can be found here: www.chichester.gov.uk/article/37648/Midhurst-fire-Frequently-asked-questions  

Please note the SDNPA is dealing specifically with the shoring up of the buildings and the relevant planning issues only.