Martin Webb: The Independent Sussex Mayor Candidate Listening to Chichester.
Sussex needs a mayor who listens. Not one beholden to party politics, but someone who walks the streets, speaks directly with residents, and acts on what he hears. That is exactly what independent candidate Martin Webb is doing as he tours towns and cities across the county in the run-up to the 2026 Sussex Mayoral election.
Chichester High Street
His latest stop was Chichester, where Webb spent a lively Monday afternoon meeting residents, visitors, business owners and members of the city’s street security team. Far from photo opportunities or political soundbites, this was an exercise in genuine listening—and Webb came away with a clear picture of both Chichester’s strengths and its challenges.
Traffic was at the top of the agenda. Locals are split between northern and southern bypass options, but almost all fear that further housing developments will only worsen congestion. “Everyone I spoke to agreed traffic is getting harder, and big new builds risk making it unmanageable,” Webb reported.
Environmental concerns are equally pressing. Chichester Harbour, a jewel of Sussex, has suffered from repeated sewage discharges. In 2024 alone, campaigners recorded 155 separate incidents. Residents told Webb of their frustration with Southern Water and their fear that fragile ecosystems are being damaged beyond repair.
Housing development more broadly raised alarm. People in Chichester welcome the idea of affordable homes, but not at the expense of the city’s unique character or its surrounding countryside. As one resident told Webb, “We don’t want to see Chichester swallowed up by unchecked development.”
In the city centre, Webb spoke with those on the front line of shoplifting and anti-social behaviour. Despite the dedication of security teams and local ambassadors, these problems persist and weigh heavily on businesses.
Yet for all the concerns, Webb saw much to celebrate. “Chichester is clearly a dynamic and prosperous city with a vibrant arts and cultural scene,” he said. “It has enormous potential—but the challenges must be taken seriously.”
And that is where Webb stands out. He is not a career politician. He is a successful businessman, a philanthropist, and a volunteer sergeant with Sussex Police for nine years. He has a proven track record of rolling up his sleeves and getting involved—whether that means supporting community projects, building businesses, or keeping streets safe.
Sussex deserves a mayor who is proactive, independent, and rooted in real-world experience. Martin Webb is showing that he is willing to do the hard miles—literally walking the county, one community at a time. In Chichester, as across Sussex, people are responding to his authenticity.
In 2026, voters will face a clear choice. If Sussex wants a mayor who puts people above politics, Martin Webb is that choice.
Vote Martin Webb – The People’s Mayor.
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