11 December 2006
At the first ever joint meeting, the Cabinets of Eastbourne Borough Council and Wealden District Council have approved a major economic action plan for Eastbourne and the south of Wealden District.
The plan, known as the Eastbourne-Hailsham Triangle Blueprint, seeks to improve infrastructure, technology and skills provisions in an area crossing the traditional boundaries of Eastbourne and Wealden local authorities. Its goal is to develop a successful sustainable economy in the wider area, and along side it, an exceptional quality of life for residents.
“This is a unique occasion with the two councils working together in genuine partnership because they can see that it bring benefits,” said Councillor Nigel Coltman, the Leader of Wealden District Council.
“This is a great opportunity to see what we can do for the economic good of this area, and we are determined to work together in a very productive way,” said Councillor Ian Lucas, Leader of Eastbourne Borough Council.
The Eastbourne–Hailsham Triangle Blueprint has been coordinated by Momentum, Eastbourne’s regeneration partnership, and funded by the Eastbourne Strategic Partnership, the East Sussex Economic Partnership and Tourism South East. The Triangle stretches from Pevensey Bay in the East to West Dean in the west and Hellingly in the north.
Members of the Cabinet of both Eastbourne Borough Council and Wealden District Council discussed their support for the Blueprint at a joint cabinet meeting held at Wealden District Council’s Hailsham offices. They also heard views from Eastbourne Strategic Partnership, the East Sussex Economic Partnership, East Sussex County Council, fellow councillors and members of the public.
The need for improvements to the A27 was highlighted as a key factor in securing the economic prosperity of the area.
The decision by the two Cabinets has been welcomed by Kim Sweet, Chair of Momentum.
"On behalf of the members of Momentum and the Blueprint steering group, I am delighted that Eastbourne Borough Council and Wealden District Council have shown strong commitment to working in partnership to support The Blueprint and implementation of the Action Plan. The Economic Blueprint is a significant piece of work that sets out a vision for the Eastbourne-Hailsham Triangle area. Achieving this vision, and ensuring the economic prosperity of the Triangle for the benefit of businesses, residents and visitors, will require all partners to work in new ways and close partnership. Eastbourne and Wealden Councils must be congratulated for taking the first innovative step on this journey."
