Decisions

Planning Committee resolved unanimously to approve the discharge of Condition 6 (materials) of planning permission HS/FA/21/00994 for the installation of the approved York stone pillar and signage at Pelham Crescent, Hastings. p1p5

It also resolved unanimously to grant full planning permission for redevelopment of the West Hill Café, Castle Hill Road, Hastings, into a visitor centre with a café, restaurant, bar, takeaway, gallery/interpretation zones and retail, along with a new pathway, lighting, solar panels and air source heat pumps, subject to conditions in the Officer's report. p1p6p8

Before deciding, the Committee heard that legal advice had recommended replacing the previously proposed Section 106 legal agreement for securing a biodiversity net gain monitoring fee with a planning condition and internal transfer of funds, to avoid unnecessary legal and administrative costs. p7

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• p1Planning Committee — minutes of the meeting on 16/09/2026
• p529. Roadways and Footpaths at Pelham Crescent, Hastings (HS/CD/26/00389) Proposal Discharge of Condition 6: Materials of Planning Permission HS/FA/21/00994 Application No. HS/CD/26/00360 Conservation Area Yes – Old Town Listed Building Grade II* Status Council application on Council owned land Having not been present for the entirety of the Officer presentation, Councillor Webb did not speak or vote on this item. Louise Brooks, Planning Officer, presented the application for the approval of the discharge of Condition 6 (materials) of planning permission HS/FA/21/00994 regarding the installation of the approved York stone pillar and signage at Pelham Crescent. There had been no updates since the publication of the report. There being no questions from Members, approval of the application in accordance with the Officer’s recommendation was proposed by Councillor Marlow-Eastwood and duly seconded by Councillor Warne, there being no debate, the Chair called upon the Committee to vote and it was RESOLVED (unanimously): To APPROVE the discharge of Condition 6 (materials) of planning permission HS/FA/21/00994.
• p631. West Hill Cafe, Castle Hill Road, Hastings (HS/FA/26/00093) Proposal Demolition of the existing café and toilets and redevelopment to form a single storey visitor centre with café, restaurant and bar, takeaway, gallery/interpretation zones, retail (mixed use Class E and Class F1) and reprovision of toilets on the site of the existing West Hill Café. Creation of a new pathway/boardwalk and installation of external lighting on pathways. Installation of air source heat pumps and solar panels and associated landscaping improvements (amended description). Application No. HS/FA/26/00093 Conservation Area Yes - Old Town Listed Building Grade II Public Consultation & Status Not delegated - Petition contrary to officer recommendation received Council application on Council owned land. Item 5a would be considered by only those Councillors present at the 8 July 2026 Committee meeting, where the item had previously been considered (minute ref 14.1). Councillors Marlow-Eastwood, Smith, Ross, Warne and Webb left the chamber at 6:11pm for the entirety of the consideration of item 5a. Vice-Chair Councillor Fawbert assumed the Chair at 6:12pm for the consideration of Item 5a only. Will Larkin, Principal Planning Officer, explained that the application had been previously considered by Planning Committee on 8 July 2026, where members resolved to grant planning permission subject to conditions and the completion of a legal agreement to secure a Biodiversity Net Gain monitoring fee. The proposal before members therefore remained identical to that previously considered, with no changes to the description of the development, the proposed plans nor the supporting documents. However, at the July Committee, the biodiversity net gain monitoring fee was proposed to be secured through a legal agreement, which was standard practice.
• p7However, as the application was Council-led on Council-owned land, subsequent legal advice had been received which advised that such an approach would add unnecessary legal and administrative time and cost without materially improving the security of the monitoring arrangements. Secondly, since the July Committee, a revised National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) had been published. The application had been reviewed against the updated Framework, and Officers confirmed that the revised NPPF did not alter the assessment previously reported to Members. The relevant planning considerations remained as set out previously, however, references within the report to paragraphs within the NPPF had been updated to reflect the new Framework. Finally, the trigger points of Conditions 5 and 9 had been amended so that they better reflected the development requirements of the project: · Condition 5 had been amended so that the required details must be submitted and approved before the commencement of any 'above ground works', rather than before any development commences; and · Condition 9, relating to vertical sections and design detailing, had been amended so that the required details must be submitted and approved before development proceeds above foundation/slab level, rather than before the commencement of all development. Helen Monaghan, Planning Lawyer, advised the Committee that the approved mechanism for securing the biodiversity net gain monitoring fee through a Section 106 agreement was disproportionate in the circumstances of a Council-led development on Council-owned land. It was explained that separate legal representation would be required for the Council’s property, planning and enforcement interests, which would result in unnecessary costs. Members were advised that the same outcome could be achieved more efficiently through a planning condition and an internal transfer of funds, thereby avoiding additional legal expense.
• p8At the invitation of the Chair, Councillor Lauchlan sought clarification on the location of the proposed heat pump fans. The Principal Planning Officer advised that those details would be considered through a future discharge of condition application. With approval of the application in accordance with the Officer’s recommendation having been proposed by Councillor Lawrence, duly seconded by Councillor Rumfitt, and there being no debate, the Chair called upon the Committee to vote and it was RESOLVED (unanimously): To GRANT Full Planning Permission subject to the conditions set out in the Officer’s report.

Museum Committee resolved to accept an NPO Update Report on the Museum's work towards its next Arts Council England National Portfolio Organisation funding application for 2028 to 2033, and recommended the report for approval by Cabinet. p1p5p6

The Committee resolved to accept a Museum Update Report noting that visitor numbers, income and engagement activity were on track to meet targets, and that the Museum's learning programme had engaged more than 2,700 pupils during the reporting period, recommending the report for approval by Cabinet. p1p10p11

The Committee also resolved to accept a Collections Report on collection care, the display of the Hastings Embroidery at the Town Hall, and the appointment of a new Collections Access Officer, recommending it for approval by Cabinet. p1p12p13

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• p1Museum Committee — minutes of the meeting on 14/09/2026
• p511. NPO Update Report Katherine Buckland, Museum Projects and Development Lead, introduced the report and explained that work was underway on the Museum’s next Arts Council England National Portfolio Organisation funding application for the 2028 to 2033 period. The Committee was advised that activity delivered during the current funding programme would inform the submission and support the case for continued investment in the Museum. An update was provided on a range of partnership, engagement and learning initiatives, including projects with the Migration Museum and Natural History Museum, outreach activities, school engagement programmes, sustainability planning and forthcoming exhibitions. It was noted that such projects continued to expand community participation, improve access to collections and support learning, skills development and cultural engagement across Hastings. In response to questions from Steve Peak, Officers advised that opportunities would be explored to make greater use of the Museum’s map collection through future exhibitions and links to oral history projects. The Committee heard that alternative sources of funding would continue to be investigated to support digitisation and preservation work. In response to questions from Councillor Jobson and Councillor Webb, it was explained that engagement with rural communities and other groups would be developed through partnership working with existing organisations and community networks. Future National Portfolio Organisation activity would place a greater emphasis on skills development and widening participation across different sections of the community. In response to questions from the Chair, updates were provided on the development of the Indigenous Collections Policy, sustainability planning and preparations for the next Arts Council England funding application.
• p6Policy development remained ongoing with community partners; sustainability findings would be shared more widely across the Council, and preparatory work for the funding application was continuing pending publication of national guidance. Members of the Committee welcomed the range of partnership, outreach and educational activity being delivered and expressed support for the Museum’s continued work to increase community engagement, access to collections and cultural opportunities across the Borough. With approval of the recommendation having been proposed by Richard Street, and duly seconded by Councillor Fawbert, the Committee voted and it RESOLVED: to accept the report and RECOMMEND its approval by Cabinet. Reason: to update the Committee on the Museum’s NPO funded programme work since the last formal meeting.
• p1013. Museum Update Report The Museum Projects and Development Lead introduced the Museum Update Report and advised that visitor numbers, income and engagement activity were performing well and remained on track to meet targets. It was reported that shop income had increased significantly, with trading supported by new stock lines, whilst weddings, venue hire income, and donations were also progressing in line with expectations. An update was provided on the Museum’s learning programme, which had engaged more than 2,700 pupils during the reporting period through visits, outreach projects and the loan box scheme. Members were advised that changes to Arts Council England funding arrangements would require applications for interim and longer-term funding, and that future activity would focus on continuing and developing the Museum’s schools offer. The Committee also received updates on forthcoming exhibitions, including the Hastings Open, Tapestry of Black Britons and Bayeux Tapestry partnership projects, together with a programme of events, volunteering activity and partnership working. Dr Hilda Kean highlighted the contribution of Museum Association volunteers to the operation of the Local Studies Room and suggested that greater use could be made of digital and remote research services. Officers responded that research, scanning and copying services were already available, although further promotion of those services would be beneficial. Richard Street then clarified details relating to a forthcoming Museum Association event on the history of the Hastings Lifeboat. The importance of accurate promotion of events and recognition of the Museum Association’s contribution was acknowledged by the Committee. Councillor Webb welcomed the involvement of community groups in future Museum events and exhibitions, including activities organised by local Ukrainian groups.
• p11Members noted the value of enabling community organisations to contribute their knowledge and expertise to the Museum’s programme. Members discussed opportunities to increase volunteering and public participation. It was reported that any expansion of the volunteer programme would need to be supported by sufficient staff capacity to provide effective supervision, training and coordination. Richard Street welcomed the Museum’s role as the first venue for the Bayeux Tapestry touring display “A British Museum Partnership: Bayeux around Britain casting a masterpiece.” The Committee welcomed the success of the Bayeux Tapestry partnership project and noted the associated investment in equipment and infrastructure that would provide a lasting benefit to the Museum. Members further welcomed the positive performance against visitor, income and engagement targets and the continued development of exhibitions, learning programmes and community partnerships. With approval of the recommendation having been proposed by Councillor Fawbert, and duly seconded by Richard Street, the Committee voted and it RESOLVED: to accept the report and RECOMMEND its approval by Cabinet. Reason: to update the Committee on the Museum’s work since the last formal meeting of the Committee.
• p1214. Collections Report The Museum Projects and Development Lead introduced the Collections Report and advised that collection care activities, including pest management, environmental monitoring and conservation housekeeping, were continuing in accordance with professional standards. Members were informed that a programme of display case cleaning and a wider collection deep clean was scheduled for later in the year to support the long-term preservation of the Museum’s collections. An update was provided on the display of the Hastings Embroidery at the Town Hall, which had generated significant public interest and positive feedback. The Committee was advised of ongoing collections and research work within the Local Studies Room, the appointment of a new Collections Access Officer, and progress in improving access to collections information. Members also received updates on current loans, recent acquisitions and the review of the disposals policy. Steve Peak expressed his concern about capacity within the Local Studies Room, noting that increasing volumes of material and limited storage space made access and organisation difficult. Officers acknowledged the issue and advised that the completion of a comprehensive inventory by the new Collections Access Officer would assist in identifying priorities and opportunities to improve the management and accessibility of the collection. Members discussed the significance of the Local Studies collection and the challenges associated with cataloguing historic material. It was noted that volunteer expertise continued to play an important role in supporting research enquiries and improving access to archives and collections information. Richard Street welcomed the successful display of the Hastings Embroidery at the Town Hall and noted the increased public interest generated by the exhibition.
• p13Members discussed the long-standing aspiration to improve the Museum’s storage and exhibition capacity, although it was acknowledged that significant expansion would require substantial external funding. The Committee welcomed progress in collections management, research access and public engagement, and noted the positive public response to the Hastings Embroidery exhibition and other collections-based activities. With approval of the recommendation having been proposed by Steve Peak, and duly seconded by Councillor Jobson, the Committee voted and it RESOLVED: to accept the report and RECOMMEND its approval by Cabinet. Reason: to update the Committee on collections care, acquisitions, loans and any objects being considered for disposal.

No decision yet; it comes back later.

The Planning Committee considered a proposal for a new dwelling with on-site parking, a drive and gardens, and a new entrance to the existing house, at 1 Ridgewood Gardens, Hastings (application HS/FA/25/00224). p5

Late objections included photographic and video evidence of a hole covered by slabs, which an objector said indicated a badger sett. p5

The council's Ecology Officer said further assessment, including a site visit, was needed before advising whether the development could affect badgers or their setts. p5

Officers said it would be premature to issue a planning decision until the new evidence had been assessed, as badgers and their setts are legally protected. p5

The committee deferred the application to a future date, by 6 votes to 2, pending further investigation by the Ecology Officer. p6

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• p521. 1 Ridgewood Gardens, Hastings (HS/FA/25/00224) Proposal New Dwelling with on-site parking / drive and gardens. New entrance to existing house. Application No. HS/FA/25/00224 Conservation Area No Listed Building No Public Consultation & Status Not delegated - 5 or more letters of objection received Will Larkin, Principal Planning Officer, presented the application for a new dwelling with on-site parking, drive and gardens together with a new entrance to the existing house. Since the publication of the report, late additional comments in objection had been received and circulated by email to Committee Members. Photographic and video evidence of a hole covered by slabs had been submitted by an objector which purported to indicate a badger sett. The report had originally concluded that the development would not harm badgers nor their setts, based on the ecological information available at the time. However, the recent photographs of an unidentified hole close to the site boundary had been seen by the Council's Ecology Officer who had advised that further assessment was required. The Ecology Officer stated that they needed time to: Review the new evidence. Carry out an additional site visit. Provide updated ecological advice on whether the development could affect badgers or their setts. As badgers and their setts were legally protected, Officers cautioned that it would be premature to issue a planning decision until the new information had been properly assessed. Officers were not yet able to advise on the timeline for the ecological assessment. Consequentially, Officers advised Members of two options: a) that the Committee could consider the application without the updated ecological assessment, subject to the final decision on the application being delegated to the Planning Services Manager, upon the receipt of the updated ecological assessment; or b) to defer consideration of the whole application to a future date.
• p6The Planning Services Manager reminded Members that the National Scheme of Delegation of Planning Functions would come into force on 31 October 2026 and would mean that applications of this type would then be determined by Officers. The Chair called upon the Committee to vote on the options before it and it was RESOLVED (by 6 votes in favour and 2 against): To DEFER the application to a future date pending further investigation by the Ecology Officer.

A decision has been taken, against.

The Licensing Sub Committee considered an application for a premises licence for Forever Food Mart, Unit 4 7-8 Harold Place, Hastings, submitted by V&K Private Limited. p6

The Committee concluded that the Applicant had not shown that granting the licence would avoid adding to cumulative impact in the area. p11

The Sub-Committee refused the application for a premises licence. p9

The Applicant has the right to appeal the decision to the Magistrates' Court within 21 days of receiving the written decision dated 12 August 2026. p12

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• p65. Application for a Premises Licence with representations for Forever Food Mart, Unit 4 7-8 Harold Place, Hastings. TN34 1JA Report of the Licensing Lead Stewart Bryant, Licensing Lead, introduced the report and outlined the application for a premises licence submitted by V&K Private Limited in respect of Forever Food Mart, 7-8 Howard Place, Hastings. The Sub-Committee was advised that a previous application for an off-sales premises licence at the premises had been refused in January 2026, with concerns raised regarding the applicant’s understanding of the locality, the Cumulative Impact Policy, and the potential impact on the licensing objectives. Members were informed that the current application represented a fresh application and should be determined on its own merits, having regard to the licensing history of the premises, the representations received from Sussex Police and the Licensing Authority, the Council’s policy framework, and the statutory licensing objectives. In response to a question Mr Bryant clarified that evidence regarding the reduction in public disorder following the surrender of the previous premises licence was contained within the Sussex Police representations. Statement from the Applicant Mr Thakkar, the Applicant, addressed the Sub-Committee in support of the application. The Applicant acknowledged the refusal of a previous application in January 2026 and advised that the concerns raised by the Sub-Committee and responsible authorities had been carefully considered. The Applicant outlined the measures introduced since that refusal, including enhanced management controls, staff training, CCTV monitoring, Challenge 25 procedures, incident and refusals registers, and a detailed local risk assessment tailored to the premises and its location within the Cumulative Impact Zone. The Applicant advised that alcohol sales would form a secondary element of the business and emphasised a commitment to responsible retailing.
• p9Sussex Police further highlighted concerns regarding the practical operation of the premises, including the potential for proxy purchasing, theft, refusals of sale and the likelihood of incidents requiring police intervention. In response to Members’ questions, Sussex Police provided further information regarding patterns of street drinking within the town centre, the challenges of enforcing alcohol-related offending, the impact on local residents and businesses, and the limitations of conditions in addressing the risks identified in this particular location. Sussex Police maintained its objection and invited the Sub-Committee to conclude that the Applicant had not rebutted the presumption arising from the Cumulative Impact Policy. The Chair invited those present to sum-up. The Applicant and Responsible Authority representatives added nothing further. The Licensing Lead reminded Members that any decision departing from policy would need to be properly justified. The Sub-Committee adjourned to deliberate at 12:17 and recovened at 13:02 when the Chair announced that: The Sub-Committee REFUSED the application for a Premises Licence. Reasons for the decision The principal issue before the Sub-Committee was whether the Applicant had demonstrated that the grant of a new premises licence for the sale of alcohol for consumption off the premises would not add to the cumulative impact already experienced within the Hastings Town Centre Cumulative Impact Zone ("CIZ") and would promote the licensing objectives. The premises is situated within the Council's designated Cumulative Impact Zone. Relevant representations were received from Sussex Police and the Licensing Authority. In those circumstances, the Council's Cumulative Impact Policy is engaged, and it is for the Applicant to demonstrate that the grant of the licence would not add to cumulative impact and would not undermine the licensing objectives.
• p11Whilst these measures were welcomed, they did not adequately address the fundamental concern identified by both Responsible Authorities and the previous Licensing Sub-Committee, namely the risk associated with the reintroduction of an off-sales alcohol outlet at this location. The Committee noted that the previous Licensing Sub-Committee expressly considered whether strengthened conditions, including restrictions on single-can sales, multipack sales and alcohol strength restrictions, could sufficiently mitigate the risks associated with the premises and concluded that they could not. Having carefully considered the evidence before it, the Committee reached the same conclusion. The Committee accepted that the Applicant was not responsible for the historic difficulties associated with the premises and that the premises is now under different ownership and management. However, the issue before the Committee was not responsibility for past events, but whether the grant of a new premises licence at this location would be likely to undermine the licensing objectives in the future. Having considered all the evidence, the Committee was not satisfied that the Applicant had demonstrated that the grant of the licence would not add to cumulative impact within the Cumulative Impact Zone. The Committee therefore concluded that the Applicant had failed to rebut the presumption arising from the Council's Cumulative Impact Policy. The Committee further concluded that there remained a real risk that the reintroduction of alcohol sales at this location would contribute to the return of alcohol-related anti-social behaviour, street drinking, crime and public nuisance. The Committee carefully considered whether the concerns identified could be adequately addressed through the imposition of conditions. However, for the reasons set out above, it was not satisfied that conditions would be effective to promote the licensing objectives in the circumstances of this case.
• p12Accordingly, the Committee concluded that refusal was the only appropriate and proportionate step available to promote the prevention of crime and disorder and prevention of public nuisance objectives. Human Rights and Equality Considerations The Committee recognised that refusal interferes with the Applicant's ability to operate the business as proposed and has considered the Applicant's rights under the Human Rights Act 1998. The Committee also had regard to its duties under the Equality Act 2010 and considered whether refusal would result in any disproportionate impact. Having balanced the Applicant's interests against the evidence-based risks identified by the Responsible Authorities and the need to promote the licensing objectives, the Committee was satisfied that refusal was a justified, appropriate and proportionate response. Right of Appeal The Applicant has the right to appeal this decision to the Magistrates' Court within 21 days of receipt of the written decision dated 12 August 2026.

The Lead Member for Economy, Councillor Pete Morley, took decisions at a remote meeting held via Microsoft Teams on 24 July 2026. p2

The stated reason was that the County Council has completed its second year as Accountable Body for these legacy capital programmes and the framework will continue to oversee the remaining projects to completion. p16

He also approved East Sussex County Council acting as delivery coordinator for the WorkWell programme in East Sussex until March 2029, working with Surrey County Council as accountable body, and delegated authority to the Director of Communities, Economy and Transport, in consultation with the Director of Adult Social Care and Health, to carry out the necessary actions. p17p20p21

According to the report, the WorkWell programme intends to allocate in the region of £1.87m to the East Sussex area over three years from April 2026, to help residents with physical and mental health needs stay in or move into work. p22

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• p2DECISIONS made by the Lead Member for Economy, Councillor Pete Morley, on 24 July 2026 at Remote Meeting via Microsoft Teams
• p16REASON 5.3 The County Council has completed its second year as the Accountable Body for the legacy capital programmes in East Sussex. The East Sussex Local Growth Assurance Framework (ESLGAF) has ensured associated responsibilities have been undertaken appropriately and will continue to oversee the remaining projects towards completion.
• p17</AI5> <AI6> 6. WorkWell programme coordination in partnership with Surrey County Council and Surrey and Sussex Integrated Care Board
• p201) approve East Sussex County Council’s role as the delivery coordinator for the WorkWell programme in East Sussex until March 2029 in partnership with Surrey County Council as the accountable body; and
• p212) delegate authority to the Director of Communities, Economy and Transport in consultation with the Director of Adult Social Care and Health, to take all actions necessary to give effect to the recommendations in the report.
• p22REASONS 6.3 The WorkWell programme intends to allocate in the region of £1.87m funding over a 3-year period from April 2026 to 2029 to the East Sussex area to support people to remain in or access employment. This presents a significant opportunity to work with the Surrey and Sussex Integrated Care Board to support residents with physical and mental health needs to access or maintain work. The WorkWell programme in East Sussex will support the priorities relating to reducing economic inactivity in the Get Sussex Working Plan and other strategies highlighted in paragraph 1.7 of the report.

Received for information; no decision followed.

The Standards Committee met on 22 July 2026. p1

No apologies for absence were received and no declarations of interest were made. p2p3

Coral Harding, Monitoring Officer, presented the Standards Committee's Annual Report for 2025/26, covering a period when a predecessor held the Monitoring Officer role. p5

The report said four Code of Conduct complaints had been received, mainly about member conduct during council meetings and on social media, and that none needed a formal hearing. p5

The committee noted the Annual Report. p5

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• p1Standards Committee — minutes of the meeting on 22/07/2026
• p21. Apologies for absence No apologies for absence had been received.
• p32. Declarations of Interest There were no declarations of interest.
• p54. Annual Report 2025/26 Coral Harding, Monitoring Officer, presented the Standards Committee Annual Report for 2025–26 and advised that the report largely related to the period where the Monitoring Officer role was held by a predecessor. A review of the complaints and outcomes had confirmed that the report accurately reflected the standards activity undertaken during the year. Thanks were expressed to the Council’s Independent Persons for their support, advice and assistance during the transition period; and to those Deputy Monitoring Officers who had contributed to the administration of the standards framework, including the newly appointed Chief Legal Officer. The report noted that four Code of Conduct complaints had been received, mainly relating to conduct during council meetings and social media activity. None of the complaints required formal hearings, with matters having been resolved through informal advice, guidance, informal resolution measures, or closure with no further action. The Standards Committee had also reviewed and updated the Member Code of Conduct during the year, based on the Local Government Association model, for which training materials remained available to members, with further training to be provided as required. The report concluded that the Council’s standards framework had operated effectively, with complaints handled proportionately while continuing to promote high standards of conduct. In response to Councillor Bates’ request for clarification around those complaints relating to Members’ language during meetings, the Monitoring Officer advised that complaints about language had not related to hate speech or protected characteristics, but rather to concerns that debate had become personal rather than focused on the matters that were being discussed. RESOLVED (unanimously): That the Annual Report be noted.

The Place Scrutiny Committee resolved on 22 July 2026 to establish a Joint People and Place scrutiny board for Reconciling Policy, Performance and Resources (RPPR) planning. p20

The Committee resolved to add several items to its work programme, including a rapid review of the Household Waste Recycling Site (HWRS) booking system to report back by 30 November, reports on the Asset Management Strategy and the Queensway Gateway Road project, and the highways winter maintenance policy and Veteran's Bus Travel. p22

The Committee noted that East Sussex Highways achieved 87.8% against a target of 93.3% on its contract performance indicators for 2025/26, and resolved to hold a closed session to examine the highways contract in more detail. p24p28

The Committee resolved to endorse a Scrutiny Review of Street Works and to submit its recommendations to Cabinet for comment and to County Council for approval. p33

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• p20Carbon reduction was included as part of Business as Usual activities, such as in the corporate estate where more energy efficient options may be identified as part of necessary essential maintenance such as replacing end-of-life boilers or windows. This would mean that through the course of operational resilience, schools and council buildings could cope better under pressures in the long term. 5.15 The Chair of the Place Scrutiny Committee raised some areas for potential scrutiny focus as part of RPPR planning including: tracking of temperatures in schools and monitoring of climate-related risk; Artificial Intelligence, cyber and digital; financial breakdown and distribution of charge points for the electric vehicle scheme across East Sussex; an examination of the length of time to complete projects, the processes behind those, and investigate how to expedite them; and to gain an understanding of the role of scrutiny in the work of the Sussex and Brighton Strategic Authority (SBSA), especially in regard to skills, economic development and transport strategies. 5.16 The Committee RESOLVED to: (1) consider and comment on information within the 2025/26 end of year Council monitoring report and State of the County 2026 report and the implications for services within the remit of the committee; (2) identify potential areas for scrutiny focus as part of RPPR planning, for consideration as part of future RPPR reports or the committee’s wider work programme; and (3) establish a Joint People and Place RPPR scrutiny board.
• p226.5 The Director of CET raised that the highways winter maintenance policy is an upcoming issue that would benefit from scrutiny input. The Committee agreed to include this on its work programme. 6.6 The Committee RESOLVED to: (1) Agree the agenda items for future committee meetings; (2) Re-establish the corporate climate target board with People Scrutiny Committee, with a broader remit focussed on health; (3) Schedule reports on the Asset Management Strategy and lessons learnt from the Queensway Gateway Road project, and the ESCC Road Safety Strategy to future meetings; (4) Undertake a rapid review of the Household Waste Recycling Site (HWRS) booking system to report to the Committee on 30 November; and (5) Add highways winter maintenance policy and Veteran’s Bus Travel to the work programme for potential future review.
• p247.1 The Assistant Director of Operations introduced the report on East Sussex Highways (ESH) Year 3 Contract Performance, which summarises the performance of the contract through the third year (2025/26) in achieving the Service Performance Indicators (SPIs) and Key Performance Indicators (KPIs). Year 3 ended on 31 March 2026 and the contract was midway through Year 4 of the 7-year contract, which had the option for a 7-year extension if KPIs were met. 7.2 Scrutiny was significantly involved in setting up the contract over 2-3 years, and made recommendations to Cabinet throughout the process, before the detailed business case went to Cabinet in July 2021. The contract was outcomes-based, centred around quality assurance, stakeholder management, sustainable economic growth and carbon management. The outcome themes were agreed by a previous Place Scrutiny Committee and performance measures were built into the contract and endorsed by Cabinet. SPIs and KPIs set targets for ESH to achieve, which are designed to stretch the contractor and increase year-on-year, to encourage improved performance. There were two incentives to reward performance in the contract: if SPIs were achieved, a financial reward would be unlocked for ESH; and achievement of the KPIs would be key in determining whether the contractor would be eligible for an extension to the contract. The overall outturn for the year was 87.8%, against the target of 93.3%, so while there had been some improvement in the contract, they had not achieved their targets for the year. 7.3 Scott Dalton, Deputy Contract Director, Balfour Beatty Living Places (BBLP), presented the report, outlining performance against the 17 SPIs and six KPIs for the 2025/26 period. While improvements had been made in some SPIs, many were not achieved.
• p287.15 The Committee RESOLVED to: (1) Schedule a closed session to view the highways contract in detail, and following this consider what future scrutiny sessions are required including with BBLP and ESCC officers; (2) Receive disaggregated data by division and sub-contractor; (3) Note the performance of the third year of the Highways Infrastructure and Services contract with Balfour Beatty Living Places.
• p338.11 The Committee asked if the system for surveying all roads could be used to correlate damaged roads to where street works have taken place. The Assistant Director Operations responded that developments in AI would enable ESH to map the survey of defects with where permits have been granted (and to which utility companies) and could identify areas of concern. 8.12 The Committee RESOLVED to endorse the report and agree to submit the recommendations to Cabinet for comment and County Council for approval.

Cabinet resolved to agree the Council's 2026/27 Internal Audit Strategy and Annual Audit Plan. p17p18p19

Cabinet resolved to approve the content of the External Audit Plan for 2025/26. p21p22p23

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• p17</AI5> <AI6> 13. 2026/27 Internal Audit Strategy and Annual Audit Plan
• p1813.1 The Cabinet considered a report by the Chief Operating Officer.
• p1913.2 It was RESOLVED to agree the Council’s 2026/27 Internal Audit Strategy and Annual Audit Plan.
• p21</AI6> <AI7> 14. External Audit Plan 2025/26
• p2214.1 The Cabinet considered a report by the Chief Finance Officer.
• p2314.2 It was RESOLVED to approve the content of the External Audit Plan for 2025/26.

The Overview and Scrutiny Committee resolved unanimously to establish a twinning and international friendship links sub-committee, to be chaired by Councillor Ross, following a motion agreed by Full Council on 15 July. p6

The Committee also approved its 2026/27 work programme, focused on three review themes: the Four Courts redevelopment and social housing impact, youth opportunity and post-4pm provision, and anti-poverty strategy and regeneration outcomes. p5p6

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• p510. Overview and Scrutiny Work Programme Coral Harding, Monitoring Officer, introduced the proposed Overview and Scrutiny Work Programme for 2026/27 for approval. During work programme planning, Members had identified a wide range of possible scrutiny topics. Members’ experience had shown that the Committee should focus on a smaller number of areas where scrutiny could have the greatest impact and add the most value. The proposed programme focused on three main review themes: I) the Four Courts redevelopment and social housing impact, including resident experience, rehousing arrangements, housing supply, Southern Housing plans, sustainability and climate resilience. II) Youth opportunity, play and post-4pm provision, including youth services, activities outside school hours, skills and employment opportunities, community facilities and green spaces; and III) Anti-poverty strategy and regeneration outcomes, including employment and skills opportunities, partnership working, regeneration investment and support for disadvantaged communities. In addition to the review themes, the work programme included housing and homelessness updates at each formal meeting, local government reorganisation briefings, Budget scrutiny and an annual climate emergency progress update. Cllr Drew sought clarification regarding the reference to rehousing arrangements within the Four Courts review. Members agreed that the wording should clearly reflect the movement of residents from existing properties and the support provided throughout that process. It was acknowledged that resident experiences varied, with some welcoming the opportunity to move and others finding the process more challenging. Members welcomed the structured programme and considered it a more realistic workload than previous years.
• p6Consideration was given to the need for flexibility should emerging issues arise, and it was noted that additional meetings, briefing notes and informal evidence gathering sessions could be used where necessary. Further discussion focused on the practical operation of scrutiny reviews, including the use of evidence sessions, background information, stakeholder engagement and the preparation of questions. Members were advised that scoping sessions would determine the focus of each review, identify witnesses and shape the evidence-gathering process. It was also confirmed that reviews could request further information or invite organisations to return if additional matters required examination. Attention was drawn to the motion agreed by Full Council on 15 July regarding a review of twinning and international friendship links, which the Committee were invited to consider for inclusion within the work programme. Councillor Smith cautioned that the review should align with the Motion in full and not narrow its focus to one friendship link. The Committee agreed that the matter should be incorporated into the work programme as a sub-committee review to be chaired by Councillor Ross. The following Members expressed their interest in forming the sub-committee: Cllr Ross (Chair) Cllr Drew Cllr Lauchlan Cllr Rumfitt Cllr Simnett Cllr Smith The sub-committee would report back to the Overview and Scrutiny Committee in December to satisfy the deadline set out in the Motion for a report to be received by Full Council in January 2027. RESOLVED unanimously to : 1. Establish a twinning and international friendship links sub-committee to be chaired by Councillor Ross. 2. Agree that the terms of reference for the sub-committee be the referred Motion from Full Council on 15 July; and that the sub-committee would conclude its work and report back to the Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting of 2 December 2026. 3. Approve the 2026/27 Work Programme attached at Appendix A. 4.

The Lead Member for Transport and Environment resolved to advise the Amberstone pedestrian crossing petitioners that their scheme has not met the benchmark score for inclusion in the Capital Programme, and that the Transport Development Planning Team will pursue Community Infrastructure Levy funding from Wealden District Council to deliver a solution at the location. p13p14

The Lead Member resolved to advise petitioners that they may wish to consider setting up a Community Speedwatch Group for the area. p15

The Lead Member resolved to approve that the Council commences public consultation on the draft East Sussex Local Flood Risk Management Strategy 2027-2037. p21

The Lead Member resolved to agree the Policy for Enforcement and Prosecutions of Highway and Street Works Activities in principle and delegate authority to the Director of Communities, Economy and Transport to determine the final version. p27

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• p13(1) a potential scheme to install a new pedestrian crossing and traffic calming on A271 Amberstone, Hailsham has been assessed through the approved Local Transport Plan 4 prioritisation process but has not met the benchmark score to be considered for detailed appraisal and possible inclusion for funding within the Capital Programme;
• p14(2) East Sussex County Council’s Transport Development Planning Team will pursue Community Infrastructure Levy funding from Wealden District Council as a mechanism to deliver an appropriate solution at this location; and
• p15(3) petitioners may wish to consider setting up a Community Speedwatch Group for the area to carry out occasional speed checks.
• p21DECISIONS 6.2 The Lead Member RESOLVED to approve that the Council commences public consultation on the draft East Sussex Local Flood Risk Management Strategy 2027 – 2037.
• p27DECISIONS 7.2 The Lead Member RESOLVED to agree the policy in principle and delegate authority to Director of Communities, Economy and Transport to determine the final version of the policy following further review and securing more than partial assurance.

Received for information; no decision followed.

NHS Surrey and Sussex, formed by the completed merger of NHS Surrey Heartlands and NHS Sussex in April 2026, updated the Committee on service changes, including a temporary change to maternity services at Crowborough and a planned review of maternity services across its area. p24p25p31

Reports on audiology, the Uckfield Day Surgery Unit and Non-Emergency Patient Transport Services are due to come to the Committee's meeting on 17 September 2026. p37

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• p24</AI5> <AI6> 6. NHS Surrey and Sussex update 6.1 Ashley Scarff provided an update from NHS Surrey and Sussex regarding national and local changes to the NHS, including some service changes. This included the following updates:
• p25· The merging of NHS Surrey Heartlands and NHS Sussex into NHS Surrey and Sussex had been completed as of April 2026, involving a staged process of redundancies to reduce staffing costs in line with national requirements;
• p31· There were temporary changes to the provision of maternity services at Crowborough, and the ICB would be undertaking a review of maternity services across its footprint in Surrey and Sussex; and
• p371) Receive reports on audiology, Uckfield Day Surgery Unit, and Non-Emergency Patient Transport Services (NEPTS) to its meeting on 17 September 2026;

The Committee also granted listed building consent for related works to the Grade II listed West Hill Lift, including a new lift from the upper terminus to the cafe, subject to conditions in the Officer's report. p7

The Committee refused an application at 65 Queens Road for change of use of the ground floor from Class E retail to mixed use restaurant and hot food takeaway, and the first floor from retail to a studio flat, for reasons including highway safety and parking, noise and odour, refuse storage, and impact on neighbouring residents set out in the Officer's report. p8p9

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• p715a West Hill Cafe, Castle Hill Road (HS/LB/26/00127) Proposal Demolition of the existing café and toilets and redevelopment to form a single storey visitor centre with café, restaurant and bar, takeaway, gallery/interpretation zones, retail and re-provision of toilets on the site of the existing West Hill Café. Creation of a new pathway/boardwalk and installation of external lighting on pathways, wayfinding and signage. Installation of air source heat pumps and solar panels and associated landscaping improvements. Application No. HS/LB/26/00127 Conservation Area Yes – Old Town Listed Building Grade II Public Consultation & Status 3 letters of objection Council application on Council owned land. Will Larkin, Principal Planning Officer, presented the application for listed building consent for works associated with the Grade II listed West Hill Lift. Since the publication of the report there had been one update - drawing numbers 355 and 356 had been removed as they were surplus to requirements. In response to a question from Councillor Simnett regarding the new lift at the upper terminus, the Principal Planning Officer clarified that new lift would be constructed from the arrival platform at the upper terminus to allow less able-bodied persons to more easily access the café without having to use the stairs. It would intersect with the proposed building at ground level. The installation of the lift would require a localised opening through an existing wall into the new lift shaft. There being no debate, approval of the application in accordance with the Officer’s recommendation was proposed by Councillor Simnett and duly seconded by Councillor Rumfitt. The Chair called upon the Committee to vote and it was RESOLVED (unanimously): To GRANT Listed Building Consent subject to the conditions set out in the Officer’s report.
• p815b 65 Queens Road (HS/FA/26/00119) Proposal Proposed change of use of ground floor from Class E (retail) to mixed use Class E (restaurant) and Sui Generis (hot food takeaway) with alterations to the shopfront. Change of use of first floor from Class E (retail) to studio flat (Class C3) . First floor rear extension. Installation of extraction vent to rear elevation. Use of roof of ground floor rear extension as courtyard including siting of refuse storage. Installation of two rooflights (amended description) Application No. HS/FA/26/00119 Conservation Area No Listed Building No Public Consultation & Status 5 or more letters of objection received, 5 or more letters of support received Zoe Taylor, Senior Planning Officer, presented the application for a change of use of the ground floor of 65 Queens Road from Class E (retail) to mixed use Sui Generis (hot food takeaway) and Class E (restaurant), and a change of use of the first floor from Class E (retail) to a studio flat (Class C3 residential). Faseeh Ullah (Petitioner and proposed operator of the business) spoke in support of the application together with Laurence Walker (the Applicant’s Agent). Members asked questions of the Petitioner, the Applicant and Officers regarding parking and highway safety, late-night opening hours, public health concerns, refuse storage, residential amenity impacts, the extraction flue and associated noise. Speakers and Officers provided clarifications in response, and Officers re-emphasised their reasons for refusal as stated in the report. Members debated the proposal. Councillors Rumfitt, Simnett, Lawrence and Lauchlan acknowledged that the application proposed to bring a vacant property back into use. However, Officer’s concerns regarding highway safety and parking, noise and odour from the extraction flue, refuse storage arrangements, the potential impact on neighbouring residents together with the constrained layout of the proposed studio, were persuasive reasons for refusal.
• p9With refusal of the application in accordance with the Officer’s recommendation having been proposed by Councillor Simnett, seconded by Councillor Lawrence, the Chair called upon the Committee to vote and it was RESOLVED (unanimously): To REFUSE the application for the reasons set out in the Officer’s report.