Clair Hall redevelopment in Haywards Heath: former chair of steering group urges Mid Sussex District Council to ‘commit unconditionally’ to full development
The former chair of Mid Sussex District Council’s (MSDC) Clair Hall Steering Group is calling on MSDC to commit fully to the site’s re-development.
Labour district councillor Paul Kenny (Haywards Heath Franklands ward) said: “I welcome the council’s decision to work with Digital Picture House to deliver the cinema and performance space elements of the development. I now call on the council to commit unconditionally to the full development of the site, specifically to ensure the inclusion of all the community facilities.”
The councillor’s announcement came after MSDC named the family-owned entertainment company as the cultural operator for the new Clair Hall development. Digital Picture House Ltd, which owns cinema and restaurant venues in Uckfield and East Grinstead, was chosen to provide a four-screen cinema with multi-use performance space, community facilities and restaurant. MSDC said its cabinet chose the company on February 2 after a ‘robust procurement process’, which was validated by an independent panel of experts.
Councillor Kenny said he stepped down as chair when it became clear that a multi-use arts space would not be included in the scheme even though it was a key feature of the consultation. The councillor has frequently raised concerns with cabinet members about the risks of what he sees as the council’s rigid approach.
Councillor Kenny said: “There are a number of options for the project that the council has decided not to explore because of its adherence to a fully market driven developer solution. This approach puts the whole site re-development at the mercy of the chosen developer. Mid Sussex residents deserve a vibrant, sustainable cultural facility that reflects the ambition expressed during the 2023 consultation. Mid-Sussex Labour remains committed to working constructively to realise that potential while ensuring public risk is properly managed.”
Mid Sussex Labour has proposed exploring direct government support for the housing element of the redevelopment through programmes like the Social and Affordable Homes Programme, which is administered by Homes England. Mid Sussex Labour believes MSDC’s strong partnership track record in Burgess Hill shows that public-sector involvement could reduce risk and unlock funding. Mid Sussex Labour also proposes reviving the proposal for a Community Trust, charity or Community Interest Company to work with a commercial anchor operator, saying this could reduce reliance on council subsidy while strengthening local ownership and resilience.
Responding to councillor Kenny’s views, an MSDC spokesperson said: “The council is delighted to have secured Digital Picture House as the operator for the proposed Clair Hall development. It is a successful local company, offering accessible community-based entertainment and dining facilities. The next stage of the work to re-develop the site has started. The approach for which was supported by the cross-party working group of which Cllr Kenny was a member.”