Town Council to Submit Updated Neighbourhood Plan and Design Code

The Town Council is delighted to announce that it has submitted the draft version of the recently updated Hailsham Neighbourhood Plan and Design Code to Wealden District Council to determine whether it needs to be subject to Strategic Environmental Assessment, a crucial step in shaping the future of development and land use in the town.

Following months of community engagement, expert input and careful revision, the updated Neighbourhood Plan builds on the foundations of the original Plan, first adopted in 2021. It reflects significant changes in local priorities, national planning policy and the development landscape. It sets out a clear, community-led vision for how Hailsham should grow and evolve over the next decade and beyond, addressing key issues such as housing, transport, green infrastructure, heritage, climate change, and local services.

The accompanying Design Code is a new addition to the planning toolkit. Developed in line with government guidance and best practices in urban design, the Code sets out clear, enforceable principles to ensure that all new developments in Hailsham reflect the town’s character, contribute to local identity and promote sustainability and accessibility. It covers aspects such as building styles, layout, materials, landscaping, and public spaces.

Community Involvement at the Heart of the Plan

The development of the revised Neighbourhood Plan and Design Code has involved extensive engagement with the local community, including public surveys, workshops, drop-in events, and consultations with businesses, landowners, and statutory bodies. The feedback received has been instrumental in shaping the policies and design principles contained within the documents.

Residents’ feedback identified the following priorities, which are central to the Plan:

• A greater focus on sustainable transport, walking and cycling infrastructure

• Protection of green spaces and promotion of biodiversity

• Design-led, locally distinctive development

• Supporting local shops, services and employment

• Better integration of new housing with existing communities

“We are proud to be submitting our updated Neighbourhood Plan for this assessment and, for the first time, a comprehensive Design Code that gives us stronger influence over how Hailsham grows,” said Cllr Mary Laxton, Chair of the Neighbourhood Planning Committee. “These documents are the result of extensive community consultation and reflect the values, concerns and aspirations of our residents. They will help ensure that future development is not only appropriate and sustainable, but also enhances the distinctiveness and vitality of our town.”

Once Wealden has assessed the need for Strategic Environmental Assessment or otherwise the Plan, and Design Code, will be subject to a period of formal consultation.  Feedback to this will be reviewed and changes made as appropriate before the Plan, and Design Code, are then submitted to Wealden for the purposes of independent examination by a qualified planning inspector.

Cllr Laxton added: “Neighbourhood planning gives local communities a real voice in the planning system. This updated Plan strengthens Hailsham’s ability to influence development in a way that meets local needs while protecting our heritage and environment. It represents a major milestone in local democratic planning.”