Message to Residents from the Town Mayor, Cllr Chris Bryant

Hailsham Town Council has confirmed the re-election of Chris Bryant as Town Mayor and Chair of the Council for a second consecutive year. Representing Magham Down Ward, Cllr Bryant will continue in the role following the council’s Annual Meeting held on Wednesday 20 May.

During the meeting, Cllr Bryant spoke about his ambitions for the coming year, highlighting the importance of strengthening community engagement, maintaining high-quality local services and ensuring the council continues to respond effectively to the needs of residents.

In his address, Cllr Bryant said: “It is a privilege to continue serving the town as Mayor, and I’m incredibly grateful for the confidence my fellow councillors have placed in me. Hailsham is a town with a strong sense of community, and I want to build on that spirit over the next year by ensuring the council remains approachable, active and focused on delivering practical support where it matters most.

As Chair of the Council, I’m committed to building on the progress we’ve already made and ensuring we continue delivering services that residents can rely on and take pride in. Over the coming year, we will keep looking at smarter and more effective ways of working, making sure every decision we take supports the long-term interests of our community and delivers genuine value for taxpayers.

Like many local authorities, we continue to face financial pressures, but our priority remains clear – to provide reliable services, invest responsibly and work in partnership with residents, community groups and local organisations to help Hailsham thrive.

The year ahead will undoubtedly bring both opportunities and challenges, but partnership working will remain central to everything we do. By working closely with residents, community organisations, local businesses and partner agencies, we can help shape a town that is well-connected, forward-looking and prepared for future growth.

It is also a tremendous privilege to continue serving as Town Mayor. One of the most rewarding parts of the role is meeting the people who make Hailsham such a vibrant and caring community. I’m especially looking forward to supporting local charities, volunteers and community groups whose dedication and compassion make a real difference to people’s lives every single day.

I want residents to feel that the Town Council is open, accessible and willing to listen. Whether through council meetings, ward surgeries or local engagement events, I encourage people to share their ideas, concerns and ambitions for the town. Strong communities are built through involvement and collaboration.

Public involvement is vital to the future of the town. I would encourage residents to attend council meetings, community events and ward surgeries, share their views and play an active role in shaping local decisions. The more we listen and work together, the stronger our community becomes.”

Above all, I want people to know that the Town Council is here to support them. We may not always have immediate answers to every issue, but we will always listen carefully, work constructively and do everything we can to achieve positive outcomes for the community we serve.”