Lewes District Council identifies buildings, open spaces and facilities for potential transfer to smaller councils

The proposals are subject to detailed due diligence. The council says it could allow a number of important local assets to be managed by town and parish councils where there is a strong case for local stewardship and community benefit.

The strategy was developed to provide a clear framework for managing Lewes District Council’s non-housing assets if local government reorganisation progresses. It is intended to ensure that important community assets are retained, transferred to local management where appropriate, or considered for disposal where no longer strategically required.

The recommendations follow extensive engagement with town and parish councils. More than 150 expressions of interest for local assets were received and assessed against criteria including sustainability, community benefit and value for money for local taxpayers.

Councillor Zoe Nicholson, Leader of Lewes District Council, said: "These proposals are about legacy planning for local residents by ensuring valued buildings, open spaces and community facilities remain in public hands and are managed at the most appropriate level.

"The proposed transfer of 187 High Street and 2 Fisher Street to Lewes Town Council is an exciting opportunity that, subject to due diligence, could support community use and local services for years to come.”

The linked building has been identified as a strategic opportunity to support continued office and community use in the heart of the county town.

Cllr Nicholson continued: "More broadly, this programme demonstrates how local councils can work together to protect important community assets while preparing responsibly for the next chapter of local government in East Sussex."

Councillor Johnny Denis, Cabinet Member for Arts, Culture, Tourism and Leisure, said: “I’m absolutely delighted that we’re taking this important step.

“This is about protecting a valued local asset, investing in our communities and making sure these places continue to serve residents well into the future.”

The package also includes a range of open spaces, recreation grounds, public conveniences and community facilities across the district, reflecting the strategy's aim of supporting local decision-making and strengthening community ownership where appropriate.

The Mayor of Lewes, Councillor Adrian Ross, said: "We're delighted to have reached this stage of the process and are excited to explore whether and how these properties could play a positive long-term role in in the life of the town.

"This nomination follows a considerable amount of cooperative work by the Town Council and District Council to understand how they could deliver lasting benefits for Lewes without increasing the Council Tax burden.

"We'd like to thank the District Council for their support and for allowing us to take this forward. And we look forward to consulting with local residents and businesses on how to get the best-possible value from these buildings."

All proposed transfers remain subject to detailed due diligence, legal processes and agreement by the relevant parties.