Residents Turn Out at Hailsham’s Annual Town Meeting

Youth service provision in the town, public footpath improvements, town centre regeneration and antisocial behaviour were among just a few of the items raised at Hailsham Town Council’s Annual Town Meeting held at the Civic Community Hall on Wednesday [13 May], at which many residents took part.

The meeting was attended by representatives from East Sussex Highways, Wealden District Council, Sussex Police and the Neighbourhood Planning Committee, alongside members of the Hailsham & District Twinning Association, Hailsham Bonfire Society and Hailsham Youth Service, as well as county councillors representing Hailsham Market and New Town wards.

Town councillors and officers responded to a wide range of issues raised by residents, including the availability of facilities and activities for young people in the town. In response, councillors and staff highlighted the reach and achievements of Hailsham Youth Service. Other matters discussed included alcohol-related antisocial behaviour in the town centre, the Town Council’s use of Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) funding, and the need for improved GP provision in the area.

Residents also voiced concerns about the condition of several roads and public footpaths across the town, the potential loss of smaller green spaces as part of ongoing housing developments, and the expected traffic disruption linked to the South Road roundabout construction project, which is due to begin next year.

Further discussion focused on councillor attendance at Full Council and committee meetings, the number of vacant retail premises in the town centre, and concerns over the declining variety of shops available to residents and visitors.

During the Annual Town Meeting, residents praised the successful operation of the town centre Post Office franchise, the continued maintenance and availability of the public toilets in Vicarage Field despite repeated vandalism, and the Town Council’s ongoing support for local community groups and voluntary organisations through its Community Grants Scheme.

Town Mayor Councillor Chris Bryant said: “One of the highlights of the civic year is the Annual Town Meeting which provides an opportunity to speak to the electors of Hailsham and answer any burning questions they may have about the local community and the Council’s activities. I’m thankful to all the residents who took the time to come along and have their concerns addressed.”

“In summary of the past year, there have been some challenging times to which the Town Council has responded with a positive outlook, hard work and commitment from members and staff.”

“The Annual Town Meeting provided an opportunity for people to participate in discussion on town issues and local services.”

Hailsham Town Council will next be holding its Annual Council Meeting which takes place at the Civic Community Hall in Vicarage Lane next Wednesday (20th May) from 7.30pm. Members of the public are cordially invited to attend and witness the election of the Town Mayor and Chair for the coming year (2026-2027).