Lewes District Council – News – September 2026

Councillors welcome latest funding approval for new Hamsey Bridge project

Plans for a landmark pedestrian and cycle bridge over the River Ouse between Lewes and Hamsey have taken another significant step forward following Wealden District Council’s approval of £558,000 in Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) funding towards the project.

The new bridge would provide a safe, all-weather walking and cycling connection between Lewes and Hamsey. The route would offer a greener and healthier alternative to travelling on busy local roads while improving access to the South Downs National Park.

Earlier this year, Lewes District Council approved an in-principle commitment of £558,000 towards the scheme, subject to planning permission and match funding from project partners.

Councillor Laurence O’Connor, Cabinet Member for Planning and Infrastructure at Lewes District Council, said: “We are delighted that Wealden District Council has approved this funding contribution, marking another important milestone for this project. By creating a dedicated walking and cycling route between Lewes and Hamsey, we are supporting healthier lifestyles and better connecting rural communities with employment, education and services in Lewes, while also making it easier for people living in the town to enjoy the surrounding countryside and South Downs National Park.”

“This investment also demonstrates how developer contributions can help deliver the infrastructure improvements needed to support communities and benefit villages across the area.”

The bridge is expected to be the largest single infrastructure element required to deliver the wider Lewes to Uckfield Greenway, creating an important new link for people walking and cycling.

Councillor Emily O’Brien, Cabinet Member for Climate, Nature and Food Systems, said: “This is really exciting news for a project that has the potential to transform how people move between Lewes and Hamsey now, as well as unlocking a future Lewes to Uckfield route. Schemes like this help tackle the climate emergency while improving people’s wellbeing, strengthening our connection with the incredible landscape on our doorstep and giving people more sustainable travel choices.

“This funding approval is a crucial piece of the puzzle and brings us significantly closer to making this new bridge a reality. We’re delighted by the support shown already and look forward to continuing to work with our partners to deliver this project and the many benefits it will bring to our residents.”

With funding commitments secured from Lewes District Council and Wealden District Council, the South Downs National Park Authority is expected to consider a matched contribution.

Watch our video about the announcement

Lewes District Council maintains pressure on government over boundary changes

Lewes District Council has written to the government seeking formal confirmation that the proposed transfer of East Saltdean, Peacehaven and Telscombe to Brighton & Hove City Council will be reconsidered.

In July, the government confirmed that East Saltdean, Telscombe and Peacehaven would become part of Brighton & Hove, despite clear opposition from residents and the council’s strong objections to the proposals. While the government has now paused the wider Local Government Reorganisation process and announced a review, its decision to annex these areas of the district has not been formally withdrawn.

To protect its legal position, the council’s letter to the government reiterates its concerns about the July decision, questions its lawfulness, and seeks clarity on the scope and timing of the review.

Councillor Zoe Nicholson, Leader of Lewes District Council, said:

“We welcome the government’s decision to review these proposals, but it is important to recognise that the July decision remains in place and continues to create significant uncertainty for residents and communities in East Saltdean, Peacehaven and Telscombe.

“We remain firmly opposed to the proposal to move these communities into Brighton & Hove. Throughout this process, we have made clear our view that residents should not be separated from the district with which they have strong historic, social and community ties.

“Our letter to government is intended to safeguard the council’s position, seek greater clarity about the review process and ensure our objections are formally recorded.”

The council will continue to engage with residents, local partners and government as the review progresses and will provide further updates as more information becomes available.

Find out more about Local Government Reorganisation and Devolution

A new free-to-use basketball half court is coming to Telscombe Playing Fields

Work on the new basketball court in Telscombe will start on Monday 28 September and is expected to take around six weeks to complete.

The court will meet Basketball England 3×3 standards, with the coloured surface added in spring when conditions allow.

Parking will remain open, but spaces will be reduced due to the contractor needing to occupy part of the car park while work is under way.

Please follow contractors’ directions and keep dogs on leads near the works.

Thank you for your patience whilst these works are carried out.

Weekly sessions providing a range of support services

Thanks to funding from the Crisis and Resilience Fund, Lewes District Citizens Advice has expanded community-based support across Lewes District, helping residents access advice and practical assistance before problems reach crisis point.

As part of this work, they have launched weekly co-located sessions at their Seaford office (37 Church Street) every Tuesday, 10am to 3pm. The sessions provide a one-stop hub for information and advice, digital inclusion support, generalist casework, and fortnightly debt and energy advice.

Working alongside local partners, they are making support more accessible, helping people build resilience and address issues early.

Were you, or someone you know, affected by the Armed Forces LGBT Ban?

Whether you were dismissed, discharged or affected in other ways, by the Armed Forces LGBT ban, you can apply for financial and other forms of recognition.

Support is available every step of the way throughout the application process.

“If any part of you thinks you should apply, then you should. You have nothing to lose, and so much to gain.” – Dawn, Royal Navy Radio Operator

Don’t leave it too late, the deadline for applications is 12 December 2026.

Find out what’s available and apply at: gov.uk/affected-by-the-ban