Residents Invited to Drop-in Sessions on Hailsham’s Neighbourhood Plan

The Regulation 14 public consultation on the updated Hailsham Neighbourhood Plan is now underway, giving residents and stakeholders the chance to help shape the future of Hailsham. A series of public drop-in sessions will be taking place over the next two weeks, offering opportunities to view the draft Plan, 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/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.”

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!”