Community Opportunities
Have Your Say about the New Local Plan
Hastings BC published its new draft Local Plan on 20 February, launching a six-week consultation period. With less than two weeks to go to the closing date of Tuesday 7 April, you have a final chance to engage with the issues involved.
West St Leonards Neighbourhood Forum are holding an exhibition and workshop on Saturday March 28 from 11am to 4.30pm, where they will respond with their own draft proposals. Organisers encourage the community to join them “to share your ideas and opinions and consider responses to the Local Plan”. They add that they will also use responses to help advance their own draft neighbourhood plan.
The event will be held at West St Leonards Community Centre in Bexhill Road, West St Leonards.
weststleonards.org.uk
Become a Councillor
Ahead of the county council elections in May, East Sussex County Council is hosting an online information event for anyone interested in becoming a county councillor.
The Teams webinar takes place on Thursday 26 March, 6–7pm, with council officers and current councillors explaining the role and answering questions, plus details of training and support. The role is open to people from all backgrounds and provides a rewarding opportunity to influence decisions and help shape the county’s future.
Find out more and register at: news.eastsussex.gov.uk/news-releases/posts/could-you-be-a-councillor-and-represent-your-community
Get Your Children Involved in Easter Holiday Activities
Active Hastings is running Easter Activities and Food sessions with sport, games and arts and crafts. Sessions are free for children aged 7–14 receiving benefit-related free school meals (otherwise £3.50) on Tuesday 31 March and Wednesday 1 April at The St Leonards Academy and include a free lunch.
Activities vary each day and may include dodgeball, archery, tennis, football, basketball, team challenges, garden games and Easter crafts.
Spaces are limited: find out more and book online at eequ.org/book/easter-haf-activities-and-food-2026-with-active-hastings-25189
Nominate a Local Project for a Grant
Caremark, a provider of home care, has launched a Community Care Fund to support local projects that benefit communities, with nominations open to individuals, community groups and not-for-profit organisations in East Sussex.
Projects could range from improving parks and play areas to supporting community centres or helping charities with equipment or refurbishment. Three grants of £3,000 will be awarded: one finalist from each of Caremark’s 12 UK regions will be shortlisted, then the three winners will be chosen by public vote.
Find out more and nominate an organisation online at: caremark.co.uk/community-care-fund
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