The James West Community Centre has unveiled a freshly repainted main hall as part of a continuing programme of improvements designed to enhance the venue for community use.
The refurbishment marks the latest in a series of upgrades completed over the past year, all aimed at ensuring the Centre remains a modern, welcoming and flexible space for residents, clubs and organisations across Hailsham.
Among the recent improvements is the installation of a modern lighting system in the main hall. The upgraded system allows users to control both lighting selection and brightness levels, making it easier to tailor the atmosphere for a wide range of activities, from sports sessions and fitness classes to social gatherings and celebrations.
Additional enhancements include improved acoustics in meeting rooms, new projection facilities, extra foyer seating, energy-efficient car park lighting and the installation of a vending machine providing refreshments for visitors. The main hall has also been adapted to accommodate sports such as netball and pickleball, further broadening the Centre’s appeal to potential hirers.
Hailsham Town Council is encouraging residents, clubs and local organisations to make full use of the facility, which continues to strengthen its reputation as one of the town’s most versatile and well-used community venues. With a growing programme of regular activities and ongoing investment, the Centre offers an ideal setting for classes, meetings, events and celebrations of all kinds.
Located in Brunel Drive, the James West Community Centre is already home to a wide range of community groups and activities. Regular users include Hailsham Table Tennis Club, Monday Youth Hub, Hailsham Netball Club, Hailsham Voices Community Pop Choir, Hailsham U3A, Yoga with Dawn and PW Performers. The venue also hosts art workshops, tap dancing classes and meetings for organisations including DISC Dementia Support, the Royal British Legion, the East Sussex Seniors’ Association and the Hailsham Parkinson’s Society.
Tony Lee, Operations and Facilities Manager at Hailsham Town Council, said: “We want the James West Community Centre to be somewhere that people immediately think of when planning an activity, event or community gathering. The recent improvements have made a real difference to both the appearance and functionality of the building, particularly the main hall, which now feels brighter, fresher and even more adaptable for different uses.”
He added: “It’s rewarding to see such a wide range of groups already using the Centre on a regular basis. Whether it’s sports clubs, support groups, performances, workshops or private celebrations, the venue has something to offer everyone and we look forward to welcoming even more people through the doors.”
The Centre offers a range of well-equipped facilities, including a large main hall measuring 18m by 11.7m, capable of seating up to 200 guests. There are also two meeting rooms, a modern kitchen, storage areas, changing facilities, toilets and a built-in PA system.
These facilities make the venue suitable for everything from exercise classes and toddler groups to craft fairs, parties, weddings and children’s events, with ample space for activities and equipment such as bouncy castles.
For more information about hiring the James West Community Centre or to make a booking, contact Hailsham Town Council on 01323 841702 or email jameswestcentre@hailsham-tc.gov.uk.
Terry Hall, COMMUNICATIONS OFFICER
Hailsham Town Council, Market Street, Hailsham, East Sussex, BN27 2AE
Telephone: 01323 841702 | Email: terry.hall@hailsham-tc.gov.uk