WORK has started on the installation of a new state-of-the-art bus shelter in Hailsham’s High Street, marking a key milestone in plans to improve public transport facilities across East Sussex.
Located at one of the town’s busiest bus stops in Vicarage Field, the new four-bay ‘mobility hub’ has been installed as part of a £41.4 million government-funded programme to modernise bus services throughout the county.
The initiative is led by East Sussex County Council, backed by a grant from the Department for Transport’s national Bus Service Improvement Plan (BSIP).
Once completed, the upgraded shelter will provide real-time travel information, improved weather protection, and features designed to support walking and cycling connections—aiming to make sustainable travel more convenient and attractive for residents and visitors.
Hailsham Town Council, which agreed last year to take on responsibility for the upkeep of several bus shelters in the town, has welcomed the project. The Council previously oversaw the installation of a new eco-friendly shelter in South Road, which features solar panels, toughened glass, bench seating and a ‘living roof’ to encourage biodiversity.
The latest development follows joint working between the Town Council and Wealden District Council to ensure the new hub fits in with the surrounding streetscape and responds to local needs.
Cllr Mary Laxton, Chair of the Assets Management Committee, said: “We are delighted that Hailsham continues to benefit from high-quality bus shelter upgrades and new infrastructure like this mobility hub. These improvements are essential to supporting sustainable travel and improving the day-to-day experience for commuters, families and all those who rely on public transport.
“Importantly, Hailsham Town Council will also be taking on responsibility for the ongoing maintenance and upkeep of the new hub – ensuring it remains safe, clean and accessible for all users. Alongside this, we currently maintain many of the town’s other bus shelters which have received much-needed upgrades or been replaced, including improved seating, weather protection and eco-friendly features.”
Tony Lee, Operations and Facilities Manager at Hailsham Town Council, commented: “The mobility hub in Vicarage Field will be a welcome addition to our town’s transport infrastructure and will act as a focal point for integrated, accessible and environmentally conscious travel.
“The Town Council’s expanded role in maintaining not just this new facility, but also an increasing number of shelters across the town, shows our long-term commitment to improving local amenities. We’re ensuring that our community benefits not just from modern infrastructure and facilities – but from the consistent upkeep and care these spaces deserve.”
The new shelter is expected to be completed later this summer.
