People invited to have their say on council savings proposals

These are services the council is not required by law to deliver - unlike statutory services, such as housing and refuse collection, which must be provided.

This follows repeated warnings that the costs of homelessness and temporary accommodation placements are causing an unprecedented strain on council finances, compounded by high interest rates, reduction in business rates income and inflationary pressures.

Councillor Stephen Holt, Leader of Eastbourne Borough Council, said: "It is with the heaviest of hearts that we are looking at these proposals, having lobbied government for the past year for support with the homelessness crisis that is crippling councils across the country and leaving families in temporary accommodation, often for unacceptably long periods.

"Putting these proposals into perspective nationally, all have been implemented by various other authorities that, like us, have to urgently reduce their spending."

Proposals include moving to a community toilet scheme, looking at options for the number of swimming pools being operated at the Sovereign Centre, changes to charges and operating hours at council-owned car parks and suggestions for future uses of the Town Hall.

Councillor Holt added: "While savings are sadly now unavoidable, this consultation gives people the chance to say how the proposed reductions would impact them and to offer ideas and suggestions for alternative ways to reduce our spending. I hope as many people as possible take part."

The consultation runs until 5pm on Thursday, October 31. Details can be found on the council website: 

Eastbourne Borough Council Savings Consultation

People are welcome to attend a consultation drop-in event at the Town Hall on Thursday, October 10, from noon to 7pm. Council officers will be on hand to answer questions about the proposals and provide help giving responses to the consultation for anyone who needs it.

Residents can pick up a paper copy of the consultation survey from the Town Hall during working hours. Different formats are available upon request.

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