Emergency call volumes during recent heatwaves have prompted an examination of West Sussex’s readiness for extreme temperatures.
The county council’s public health department will conduct the review following concerns raised by councillor Martin McCabe regarding the health consequences of severe heat at a meeting of the Health and Adult Social Care Scrutiny Committee.
Representing Worthing West, Cllr McCabe called upon the director of public health and the cabinet member responsible for public health and wellbeing to examine submissions received during the county’s Climate Change Adaptation Action Plan consultation.
He further inquired whether proposed heat-related health interventions could receive financial support from public health budgets.
The councillor emphasised that the summer months provided unmistakable evidence that extreme temperatures represent a public health challenge alongside environmental concerns.
Direct feedback from the ambulance service highlighted the strain that hot conditions placed on emergency responders and hospital facilities.
This underscores the critical importance of preventive measures.
Targeted solutions such as enhanced access to hydration, increased vegetation and shaded areas, temperature-controlled environments and recognition of communities most susceptible to severe heat could safeguard residents before they require medical attention.
The concerns follow data from South East Coast Ambulance Service, which documented a 30 percent increase in 999 requests during the May heatwave.
During the period spanning June 22 to July 12, when thermometers frequently exceeded 30 degrees Celsius, the service managed almost 78,000 calls, representing a 16 percent rise compared to the same timeframe in 2025.
Proposed interventions put forward by Cllr McCabe encompass expanding canopy coverage and urban planting, facilitating improved access to potable water, cataloguing air-conditioned facilities and pinpointing at-risk populations.
He expressed support for the committee’s resolution to escalate the matter to public health officials for additional assessment.
While acknowledging that no budgetary commitments have been established, he stated that ensuring these proposals receive proper evaluation marks a significant initial phase.
West Sussex authorities are presently seeking input on comprehensive Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation Action Plans covering the entire county.
These strategies intend to equip communities, infrastructure, the economy and natural ecosystems to manage increasingly common heatwaves alongside significant flood events.
The consultation period concludes on Sunday, September 27, with responses due to inform the finalised action frameworks.