James West Centre Open for the Local Community

Following a six-month period of closure resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic, bookings from residents and local community groups are now being taken for the hire of the James West Community Centre – which is located off Brunel Drive in the north of the town.

In line with the government advice on social distancing and in response to dealing with the pandemic, Hailsham Town Council‘s community hall facilities, including the James West Community Centre, Fleur de Lys Meeting Room and Southview Community Rooms, had to close in March.

However, Town Council officers have been working hard to put in place all the measures needed to ensure a safe return for Centre users and hall staff, including the undertaking of a comprehensive risk assessment and drawing up of social distancing guidelines and health and safety regulations for user groups.

Community groups and other hirers are once again able to hire the main hall and meeting rooms at the Centre and is welcoming a range of groups which can hire the facility for community events, sports, business meetings and other events, but with social distancing and hygiene measures in places, in line with the latest Government guidelines.

Regrettably, bookings for some activities, including parties, live performances and similar events, cannot be accepted at present.

Among the first groups to hire the facility again and schedule bookings since reopening are Canton Martial Arts, Hailsham Voices (choir), Hailsham Active (fitness classes), PW Performers (gymnastics and cheerleading) and Hailsham Table Tennis Club.

“While we had to close the James West Community Centre for some time as a direct result of the coronavirus pandemic, we continually monitored developments and are delighted to be in a position to reopen the Centre, albeit with strict guidelines in place as set by the Government,” said Town Clerk John Harrison.

“I’d like to take this opportunity to thank the public and Centre users for their understanding of these necessary precautions as we have taken and continue to take every step possible to ensure their wellbeing and safety – and that of our staff.”

Deputy Town Clerk & Business Enterprise Manager Mickey Caira commented:  “Since opening just a few years ago, this purpose-built centre has already begun to play a key role in enabling Hailsham to fulfil its potential as a vibrant and inclusive town and, now that it has reopened, we hope it continues to be a popular community hub, offering a range of activities for local residents.”

“A lot of work has gone into dealing safely with COVID-19 and implementing it all has been a challenge, but we are pleased that the Centre is available for use by the community once again.”

“In terms of running the Centre effectively during the pandemic, we will continue to follow Government advice closely, react appropriately to local situations as they arise, and maintain good communication to ensure everyone has the latest information about potential restrictions to hire in the future.”

For further information or to make a booking, contact Hailsham Town Council on 01323 841702 or by email.