Residents Turn Out To Ask Questions At Forum

Nearly 70 residents attended Hailsham Forward‘s first Residents’ Forum yesterday evening [7 July] which was held at the Civic Community Hall in Vicarage Lane.

The lively event saw the launch of the new discussion group, which was set up for residents to ask questions and voice their views on topical issues that are raised by, or affect, the local community.

Councillors, planning officers and representatives from the Hailsham Forward Town Team responded to issues raised by residents including the impact of recent housing developments such as those east of Battle Road, north Hailsham and the Redrow development in Arrow Drive.

Concerns were raised over infrastructure including the provision of schools and doctors surgeries, local employment opportunities and town centre road congestion.

“I’m grateful to the many residents who took the time to come along, ask their questions and have their concerns noted, the information gathered will now be fed in and where possible acted upon,” said town and district Councillor Nick Collinson, who is Vice Chairman of the Hailsham Forward Executive.

“The first Residents’ Forum went well and the format for the future forums can be looked at to ensure they are as productive as possible.”

“The forum gave us the chance to let residents know some of the achievements Hailsham Forward has made to date in terms of town centre development, improvements to infrastructure to support the town’s increasing population and provided an opportunity for people to participate in the discussions on a variety of town issues and helps us focus on where our efforts should be directed in the future.”

Deputy Town Clerk and Business Enterprise Manager Mickey Caira said: “While the first forum meeting allowed residents to comment on recent and upcoming housing developments in the town, we need people to put forward suggestions for topics to discuss at the next meeting, which is scheduled for October.”

“It’s important that we get as many residents as possible to take part in future forum meetings too and I encourage people to email me with topic suggestions and any local issues they wish to debate.”

Edited highlights of last night’s meeting will be included in Hailsham Festival FM’s broadcast during the week beginning 10th September.

If you wish to attend the next meeting (date TBC) please write to Mickey Caira (Town Council Offices, Market Street, Hailsham, BN27 2AE) or email (mickey.caira@hailsham-tc.gov.uk). If you wish to attend AND have a question for the forum or wish to suggest a topic for discussion, please include your question in all correspondence, so the relevant information can be gathered and made available at the meeting.