Last Chance to Submit Views on Updated Hailsham Neighbourhood Plan

The Regulation 14 public consultation on the updated Hailsham Neighbourhood Plan continues to gain momentum, giving residents and stakeholders the opportunity to help shape the future of the town.

The second round of public drop-in sessions, held at the Town Council Offices, James West Community Centre and Dippy Doodahs Cafe last Wednesday [21st January] were well attended, demonstrating strong community interest in the draft Plan.

Toearly 200 residents have attended the six sessions held to date, and concerns were raised over the following:

• The future of the High Street including the number of empty units and the range of shops available
• The need for a walk-in medical/accident and emergency centre to cater for the town’s growing population
• Traffic flow on all roads and regular gridlock of the town centre
• The need for improved bus routes and better connectivity
• The need for more facilities at Hailsham Country Park (e.g. public toilets)
• The number of new houses being built without adequate infrastructure
• The need for more investment by South East Water towards the maintenance of pipelines and an additional reservoir

Residents who have been unable to attend the drop-in exhibitions so far are encouraged to go along to the final consultation session, which takes place this Wednesday [28th January] at the Civic Community Hall in Vicarage Lane, from 5pm-6.30pm. The event will provide another opportunity to view the proposals, ask questions and share views in person.

The six-week consultation runs until 14th February and follows extensive community engagement, expert input and careful review. The revised Neighbourhood Plan builds on the original Plan adopted in 2021 and reflects changes to local priorities, national planning policy and the evolving development landscape. It sets out a clear, community-led vision for how Hailsham should grow over the next decade and beyond, addressing housing, transport, green infrastructure, heritage, climate change and local services.

What’s in the Draft Plan:

• Supporting new and improved community facilities in accessible locations across Hailsham
• Enhancing the vibrancy of the town centre
• Ensuring new development responds well to local character and identity
• Improving public transport and walking and cycling routes for better accessibility
• Expanding green infrastructure, biodiversity and community amenity spaces

A significant new element of the updated Plan is the Design Guide & Code, which has been developed to ensure new development respects Hailsham’s character, strengthens local identity and supports sustainability. The Design Code sets out clear and enforceable principles on building styles, materials, layouts, landscaping and public spaces, in line with government guidance and best practice.

Cllr Mary Laxton, Chair of the Neighbourhood Planning Committee, commented: “The Neighbourhood Plan has been created for the community by the community. It will enable us to help shape future development in Hailsham and will be used to determine planning applications in the area. Many thanks to all who previously provided ideas for inclusion in the Neighbourhood Plan. We have used those ideas to prepare a draft Plan and are now seeking your feedback on this.”

REGULATION 14 PUBLIC CONSULTATION DETAILS

The public consultation on the revised Neighbourhood Plan and accompanying Design Code runs until 14th February. Residents, businesses and other stakeholders are invited to review the documents and provide feedback through an online survey.

>>View the revised HAILSHAM NEIGHBOURHOOD PLAN

>>Complete the REGULATION 14 SURVEY (Google form)

Survey forms can also be downloaded, printed and submitted by hand or by post to the Town Council offices at Inglenook, Market Street, Hailsham, BN27 2AE.

Cllr Laxton added: “Our updated Neighbourhood Plan has been shaped through detailed research and valuable contributions from local people. It sets out a clear vision and a set of policies to guide Hailsham’s future development – supporting enhancements to our town centre, local facilities, infrastructure and the overall wellbeing of our community.”

“I encourage all residents to take part in the consultation and share their thoughts. Your feedback is essential in making sure the final Neighbourhood Plan truly represents the priorities, hopes and ambitions of everyone who lives and works in Hailsham. This is your opportunity to help influence the town’s future – so please get involved and make your voice heard.”