The Town Council is pleased to update residents that the next stage of improvements at Hailsham Cemetery in Ersham Road is well underway. Several key projects are now complete, while others will be finished very soon, ensuring the cemetery remains a respectful, accessible and well-maintained space for the community.
Earlier this year, all footpaths and walkways across the cemetery were fully resurfaced with durable tarmac, providing smooth, safe access in all weather conditions. The public toilet facilities also received a major refurbishment, including internal upgrades, tile repairs, and the replacement of soffits, gutters, and downpipes, which is now fully complete. Accessibility improvements ensure the toilets are suitable for all visitors, including those with disabilities.
These projects were funded through the Town Council’s Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL), reflecting a continued commitment to investing in local amenities.
The latest phase of development includes:
Visitor Waiting Room: A previously unused building has been transformed into a comfortable space for visitors.
Chapel Upgrades: Electrical work is complete and new heaters have been installed to improve comfort and efficiency.
Book of Remembrance: A dedicated tribute area in the chapel will soon house a Book of Remembrance in a bespoke glass cabinet, allowing visitors to leave and read personal messages in memory of loved ones.
Historic Bell Display: The chapel’s original bell will soon be preserved and showcased in a custom-made glass display.
In addition, grounds maintenance and grass cutting have been brought in-house, with Council staff now managing the work previously carried out by contractors. This ensures consistently high standards of care while delivering long-term savings.
Cllr Mary Laxton, Chair of the Assets Management Committee, said: “We are delighted that several key projects are now complete, including the visitor waiting room, chapel electrical upgrades and the external guttering work on the toilet building. The Book of Remembrance and bell display will be installed very soon, further enhancing the cemetery’s heritage while providing a more respectful and comfortable environment for visitors.”
“My grateful thanks to our outdoor team workforce for using their skills to enhance our cemetery for the public to enjoy.”
Tony Lee, Operations and Facilities Manager, added: “Hailsham Cemetery is a place of quiet reflection and peace, and it is essential that we continue to maintain and improve the site. With the visitor waiting room and chapel upgrades now complete, and the Book of Remembrance and bell display coming very soon, we are creating a more welcoming and meaningful space for visitors.”
“Every enhancement we make – from the footpaths and toilets to the heritage features – helps ensure that families and residents can visit, remember loved ones, and reflect in comfort and dignity. Our staff are proud to care for this important community space, and we look forward to welcoming residents to enjoy the improvements as they are completed.”
Terry Hall, Communications Officer
Hailsham Town Council, Market Street, Hailsham, East Sussex, BN27 2AE
Telephone: 01323 841702 | Email: terry.hall@hailsham-tc.gov.uk