Residents mustbe given a voicesay Rye Council

But Rye Town Council says it is vital the local community are fully consulted as bidding to build on the site gets underway in January.

Since November 2010, the Rye Partnership has developed a community hub on the land, providing services to the local community and a facility available for hire.

The Partnership’s work has included the provision of adult education, Job Centre and employability services, health and well-being classes and clinics as well as enabling community organisations such as Tilling Green Residents Association to provide leisure activities such as bingo and sporting activities.

“The Rye Partnership has done a fantastic job in providing a community resource for the people of Rye and surrounding areas and East Sussex County Council is adamant that this work continues after the site is sold,” said Cllr David Elkin, the council’s lead member for resources and deputy leader.

“The former school site has become surplus to our requirements and is available to developers to build much-needed housing for the area, but any scheme must include something for the community.”

Chrissy Stower, Chief Executive Officer from the Rye Partnership, welcomed the county council’s commitment to retaining a community facility on the site.

She said: “On behalf of the Rye Partnership I would like to thank all of the organisations and partners that have made the Tilling Green Community Centre a success. We will work hard with whoever purchases the site to ensure the future success of the community facility that will form part of any new development.”

Rye Mayor Shaun Rogers said: “We will support Tilling Green Resident’s Association and make sure their voice is heard in any consultation.

Bidders will have until January 24, 2014 to submit their proposal.