Arun Valley Line Arts and Heritage Project launches Series 2
The Arun Valley Line Arts and Heritage Project launched Series 2 on 11 March, celebrating local heritage, creativity, and sustainable travel from Gatwick Airport to the coast. The event also marked the refreshed relaunch of Series 1, recently shortlisted for a Community Rail Award.
A partnership between Arun District Council, Southeast Communities Rail Partnership (SCRP), Experience Sussex, Horsham District Council, and Whistlestop Arts, the project brings together councils, rail partners, tourism bodies, businesses, and community voices.
Launched in 2025, Series 1 explored the northern half of the Arun Valley Line through a podcast and 45‑minute film, spotlighting local voices, wellbeing and sustainable travel.
Harriet Coombs, Economic Development Officer at Arun District Council, praised the project's strong collaboration, highlighting the joint efforts made for community engagement and funding.
Series 2 captures the character and pride of Arun's six southern stations, featuring:
- new podcast episodes with local volunteers, makers, heritage and nature experts
- four themed short films on The Great Outdoors, Hidden Gems & History, Episode Highlights and Pride of Place
- stories from residents celebrating Arun's landscapes, identity and community spirit
A new Arun Valley Line Railway Detectives activity pack-funded by SCRP-invites families to explore the line through:
- a mystery story Sonnet and the Silver Whistle
- puzzles and station activities
- confidence‑building train travel tasks
- 2,000 printed copies plus a free downloadable version
Councillor Roger Nash, Chair of the Economy Committee at Arun District Council, said:
“Series 2 is a fantastic celebration of what makes Arun so special - our heritage, our landscapes, and the people who bring our communities to life. This project shows the real power of partnership working, with councils, rail partners, tourism organisations and local creatives all coming together to showcase the best of our district.”
By encouraging car‑free travel and shining a spotlight on local stories, the project not only supports sustainable tourism but also boosts our visitor economy and strengthens community pride. I'm delighted to see such vibrant, collaborative work promoting Arun as a wonderful place to live, work and explore.