Annual Town Meeting to Highlight Progress and Hear Residents’ Views

Hailsham Town Council is encouraging residents to attend this year’s Annual Town (Electors’) Meeting, which will be held on Wednesday 13 May at the Civic Community Hall in Vicarage Lane.

The meeting will begin at 7.30pm and will be led by the Town Mayor and Chairman, Councillor Chris Bryant. It provides an important forum for residents to connect directly with their Town Council and contribute to discussions about the future of the community.

This annual gathering plays a vital role in local democracy, giving registered electors the opportunity to raise concerns, ask questions and share their views on issues affecting Hailsham. In line with the Local Government Act 1972, attendees are free to introduce any matter of public interest relating to the town.

Ahead of the formal proceedings, an informal drop-in session will take place from 6.30pm to 7.30pm. Local organisations and community groups will be present with information stands, offering residents the chance to learn more about local initiatives, speak with representatives and explore ways to get involved.

A range of organisations have already confirmed their attendance, including representatives from East Sussex Highways, Wealden District Council (Community Sports Hub), Sussex Police and the Hailsham Neighbourhood Plan, alongside local organisations including Environment Hailsham, Hailsham Bonfire Society and the Hailsham & District Twinning Association.

During the meeting itself, the Town Council will present a summary of its work over the past year, outlining key achievements, ongoing initiatives and priorities for the months ahead.

Corporate Services Manager Karen Giddings said: “The Annual Town Meeting is an important opportunity for us not only to reflect on what has been achieved over the past year, but also to be open about the challenges we face and the priorities we are setting for the future.”

“We are committed to transparency and accountability, and this event allows us to share updates on key projects, listen to feedback and better understand what matters most to our residents. Community input plays a vital role in shaping our work, and we strongly encourage people to come along, ask questions and be part of the conversation.”

Town Clerk John Harrison added: “We want as many residents as possible to feel able to take part in the Annual Town Meeting. It is designed to be an open and inclusive forum where people can speak directly with councillors and officers, raise concerns and contribute ideas in a constructive setting.”

“Strong engagement from the community is essential to good local governance, and by attending, residents can help influence decisions and ensure that Hailsham continues to develop in a way that reflects the needs and aspirations of those who live here. Whether you have a specific issue to raise or simply want to learn more about the Council’s work, your participation is very much welcomed.”

Residents who would like to submit questions in advance are invited to write to the Town Clerk at Inglenook, Market Street, Hailsham, BN27 2AE. The deadline for advance questions is Friday 8 May.

Alternatively, members of the public are welcome to attend on the evening and raise matters during the meeting itself.