Welcome to this week's newsletter!
You may remember from my previous newsletter that I’ve launched a campaign to bring back a 24/7 ATM to Battle High Street! Last Saturday, I joined local Cllr Paul Redstone and some fantastic volunteers collecting signatures, and it was clear that residents and businesses want convenient access to cash. Please take a moment to complete the survey linked here and help strengthen the case for bringing one back.
I have criticised National Highways for failing to properly consult Hurst Green residents before introducing traffic lights at the A21/A265 junction. I had met residents and requested a pause for fuller engagement but they refused. I have and written to the Roads Minister to review how this project could proceed without meaningful consultation.
It was a pleasure to officially open the Footbridge Project – Bexhill on Sea 3.0 last weekend. Congratulations to all the talented artists involved. Projects like this are exactly the reason I’m so proud to support Bexhill’s bid to become Town of Culture 2028. Our town already has a vibrant and inclusive cultural scene, with events, exhibitions, and community activities throughout the year, and I look forward to continuing to back the bid as it progresses.
I was also pleased to return to Battle Library to spend more time with the La Mora Tapestry Project, as local volunteers recreate scenes from the Bayeux Tapestry ahead of the return of the Bayeux Tapestry to the UK later this year. I am continuing discussions to ensure our community is properly recognised in the UK exhibition plans, so residents have meaningful access to this defining piece of our history.
We now have confirmation that Northeye has been transferred to Homes England, which is welcome news for residents concerned about a potential last-minute reversal in plans.
I met virtually with over 60 residents from the Percy Bilton estate in Cooden, who are facing uncertainty over restrictive covenants now held by Asset Invest Ltd. I’ve raised these concerns with the Housing Minister and will be meeting him to press for fairer treatment – if you are affected, please get in touch with my office.
I recently visited St Richard’s Catholic College for a tour with Principal Mr Barber and a lively Q&A with the School Council, covering topics from international relations and Digital ID to the NHS and the environment. It was inspiring to see the enthusiasm and ambition of the students, reflected in the school’s outstanding results and national recognition.
I was also pleased to visit Bexhill Men’s Shed on Jameson Road, which now has 170 members. The group offers woodwork, metalwork, electrics, 3D printing and more in a welcoming, social environment. Run entirely by volunteers, it is a fantastic space for learning, sharing skills, and building friendships – we are very lucky to have it in Bexhill!
I’m proud to support the Rother Valley Railway Heritage Trust and its £350,000 Buildings Appeal to help reconnect the Kent and East Sussex Railway to the mainline at Robertsbridge. With strong backing and over £250,000 already secured, this exciting project will restore a historic rail link, boost tourism and local jobs, and invest in sustainable facilities.
A final reminder about the Bexhill Jobs and Apprenticeships Fair on Friday 6 March at the De La Warr Pavilion! Doors open 10:30–15:30, with a quiet session from 14:00–15:30. Register in advance to speed up entry and meet over 50 local businesses and organisations recruiting.
This May Bank Holiday, Herstmonceux Castle Estate will host an immersive Medieval Heritage Weekend, taking visitors back over 600 years to the castle’s origins in 1441. The three-day festival runs from Saturday 2 May to Monday 4 May – find out more via the link in the article.
The National Maternity and Neonatal Investigation has launched a Call for Evidence as part of its review into maternity and neonatal services. If you or your family have been affected, please share your experiences before the 17 March deadline to help shape future improvements – full details are in the article.
Finally, please see the end of this newsletter for information on local road closures, as provided by third parties.
Have a great weekend.
This week's newsletter:
- Campaign for a 24/7 ATM on Battle High Street
- A21 Road Safety Project - National Highways' Lack of Communication with Residents
- Opening Footbridge Project - Bexhill on Sea 3.0 & Bexhill's Bid for 'Town of Culture 2028'
- Battle Library - La Mora Tapestry Project
- Bayeux Tapestry Debate
- Update on Northeye
- Meeting with Residents of the Percy Bilton Estate - Restrictive Covenants
- Visit to St Richard's Catholic College
- Bexhill Men's Shed
- Funding for Rother Valley Railway
- Bexhill Jobs Fair - Friday 6th March!
- Herstmonceux Medieval Heritage Week
- National Maternity and Neonatal Investigation - Call for Evidence
- Local Road Closures
Campaign for a 24/7 ATM on Battle High Street
It was great to be out in Battle on Saturday with local Cllr Paul Redstone and Bexhill and Battle Conservatives collecting signatures for our cash point campaign.
I saw multiple people go to use the cash point not knowing it was no longer running and overwhelmingly resident and visitors on the high street agree we need one.
For anyone who has missed my campaign so far, at present, there is no 24/7 cashpoint on Battle High Street. The Post Office cashpoint is in Jempson's, but that is not 24/7 and is not open at all on a Sunday. This means residents, visitors, and businesses are forced to walk a significant distance - often up to Tesco Esso Express on Battle Hill - simply to withdraw cash.
In poor weather, for those with mobility issues, or for people on tight schedules, this is inconvenient and frustrating. For local businesses, it can mean lost trade.
A cashpoint previously operated on the High Street, but it is no longer in service. This is why many residents and business owners have contacted me to say how strongly they feel about the need to restore a permanent, free-to-use, 24-hour cashpoint in the town centre.
Access to cash still matters. Many people rely on it day to day, and many local businesses depend on customers being able to pay easily and quickly.
That is why I launched the “Support a 24/7 cashpoint for Battle High Street” campaign - to demonstrate clear local support and make the strongest possible case to banks, cashpoint providers, and decision-makers.
Please take a moment to complete the short survey and add your support. Your views will help show why Battle High Street needs a cashpoint - and why this matters to our community.
https://www.drkieranmullan.org.uk/campaigns/support-247-cashpoint-battle-high-street
A21 Road Safety Project - National Highways' Lack of Communication with Residents
I have strongly criticised National Highways' lack of engagement with residents of Hurst Green regarding a proposal to introduce traffic lights in the heart of their village - at the A21 junction with the A265. Residents were only informed of the traffic lights proposal a few weeks before implementation which allowed no time for meaningful engagement or consultation. The traffic lights form part of a package of measures under the A21 Road Safety Project.
National Highways should have brought proposals affecting the heart of Hurst Green to residents at a much earlier stage. Those living directly on the A21 are understandably worried that traffic lights will mean long queues of stationary traffic outside their homes, with all the associated air‑quality impacts.
When I first heard of the proposal, I immediately met residents and asked for an urgent village meeting with National Highways officers to explain the project and answer questions from residents. Despite the short notice, the meeting was packed with residents who had valid concerns and questions. At this meeting, I asked for the traffic lights project to be paused to allow for for fuller engagement but this was refused as National Highways believed they had adequately addressed all concerns.
I have now written to the Roads Minister to ask him to review how a highways project which has serious repercussions for a community could proceed to implementation without proper engagement and consultation with those most affected.
Opening Footbridge Project - Bexhill on Sea 3.0 & Bexhill's Bid for 'Town of Culture 2028'
It was a real pleasure to officially open the Footbridge Project – Bexhill on Sea 3.0 last weekend, a fantastic celebration of the creativity and community spirit that make our town so special.
Diana and Tim can be incredibly proud of what they have achieved. The project showcased an inspiring range of artistic talent, and it certainly wasn’t easy to cast my votes. A huge well done to all the artists involved, and sincere thanks to the De La Warr Pavilion and Bexhill Chamber of Commerce and Tourism for their valued support in bringing the event to life.
Projects like this are exactly why I’m so proud to support Bexhill’s bid to be Town of Culture 2028. Anyone who lives in, works in, or visits Bexhill already knows that we are home to a vibrant, diverse, and inclusive cultural scene. Throughout the year, venues across the town host an exciting range of exhibitions, performances, educational programmes, societies, clubs, and community organisations.
Bexhill’s passion for culture enriches lives, connects communities, and helps people of all ages thrive. The Footbridge Project is just one example of the creativity and collaboration that define our town.
Please take a couple of minutes to get involved in the Town of Culture 2028 survey and share what makes Bexhill so unique. Together, we can show why Bexhill truly deserves this recognition.
Battle & Bayeux! Debate in Parliament and the La Mora Tapestry Project
I was back at Battle Library spending more time with the fantastic La Mora Tapestry Project. Earlier this year, I had the privilege of supporting this community initiative, which is recreating scenes of William the Conqueror’s ship La Mora from the Bayeux Tapestry ahead of its return to the UK later this year.
I also spoke about this during a debate I joined with Hastings and Rye MP Helena Dollimore. This is not just a big national exhibition. It tells the story of our local history. From William landing at Pevensey to the Battle of Hastings at Battle Abbey, cared for today by English Heritage, these are events that happened right here.
I want to see our area front and centre. That means encouraging visitors to come and explore 1066 Country, and making sure local school children have the chance to visit the exhibition and see their own history brought to life.
This is something we can be proud of. I will keep working to make sure Bexhill and Battle gets the recognition it deserves. See the video of me speaking in Parliament below.
Update on Northeye
CONFIRMED: Northeye has now completed transfer to Homes England.
This announcement brings much-needed assurance to residents living immediately adjacent to the site, and to the wider community across Bexhill. The Home Office had previously abandoned plans to use Northeye as an asylum accommodation centre in December 2024 – a proposal that I and many residents had strongly opposed.
Residents of the Northeye Estate have faced an incredibly difficult period. For many, their lives have effectively been on hold while uncertainty persisted about what might happen at this site. Today’s confirmation will come as a huge relief to everyone who has waited so long for clarity.
Homes England has indicated that it will now begin essential site maintenance and work in partnership with Rother District Council, community groups and residents to shape plans to deliver new homes that meet the needs of local residents.
I will be seeking a meeting with Homes England to discuss the future development of the site. My priority will be ensuring that the needs and interests of Northeye Estate residents are placed at the heart of any proposals brought forward.
With the site now formally in Homes England’s hands, the focus must shift to achieving the best possible outcomes for the community. I know lots of residents will be worried about further pressure from more housing at this site, when our local roads are congested and people struggle to get GP appointments. But the government is going to force us to build thousands more homes, so I'd rather this brownfield site be used than a local green space. I will be working closely with Homes England to ensure residents’ voices are heard and that the development proceeds in a way that benefits Bexhill for the long term.
Please make sure to share the BBC News article linked here.
Meeting with Residents of the Percy Bilton Estate - Restrictive Covenants
I joined a virtual meeting with over 60 Bexhill residents from the Percy Bilton estate in Cooden, which is affected by restrictive covenants recently acquired by Asset Invest Ltd.
People shared the real pressure and uncertainty they’re facing, particularly around the charges being asked and how these covenants are being enforced.
I’ve raised this issue with the Minister for Housing and Planning and will be meeting with him shortly to discuss this further. Covenants can sometimes help protect a neighbourhood, but problems arise when old or unclear rules are enforced in ways that feel unfair, especially by private companies.
Homeowners shouldn’t be left facing unexpected costs with little clarity or way to challenge them. I’ll keep pressing this nationally and working with residents locally.
If you’re affected and want to share your experience, please get in touch with my office.
Visit to St Richard's Catholic College
Recently, I visited St Richard’s Catholic College for a tour of the school and to take part in a Q&A session with the School Council.
Principal Mr Barber led the tour, which offered a clear insight into the strong sense of community, high expectations, and supportive atmosphere that underpin the culture at St Richard’s.
A highlight of the visit was a lively and engaging Q&A session with the School Council, with meaningful discussions on a range of subjects, including international relations, Digital ID, the economy, water companies, the NHS, prisons, the environment and social media.
It was a pleasure to visit St Richard’s and see first-hand the enthusiasm, ambition, and creativity of its students. Their dedication, along with the commitment of staff, is demonstrated by their outstanding results, including being ranked 9th by The Times in their list of top state secondary schools.
Bexhill Men's Shed
I enjoyed a great visit to Bexhill Men’s Shed in Jameson Road today. They now have 170 members of all different ages. I support men only groups and groups with that focus. But it's also welcome that they offer mixed sessions as well so women get the chance to enjoy what the shed has to offer too.
There are so many different things to do from upholstery, woodwork, metal work, electrics and even 3D printing. Members can bring their own projects or get involved in group projects. It’s an amazing place to learn new skills, hobbies or to share a lifetime of skills and experience with others. Most importantly, it’s such a welcoming and social place to make friends at any time in life.
They have even welcomed the local cub scouts who are working on their DIY badges as well as students on technical courses who want to practice and refine skills.
We are very lucky to have such an amazing Men’s Shed in Bexhill which relies entirely on volunteers to run it. I took the opportunity to thank everyone who plays a role running in the Men’s Shed for their commitment and enthusiasm which has made this group a really important part of the Bexhill community.
Funding for Rother Valley Railway
I’m proud to support the fantastic work of the Rother Valley Railway Heritage Trust right here in our constituency.
I was delighted to see Peter Hendy lend his personal backing to the Trust’s £350,000 Buildings Appeal – a major step towards reconnecting the Kent & East Sussex Railway to the mainline at Robertsbridge.
This is a brilliant project that will:
- Restore an historic railway link between Robertsbridge and Tenterden
- Deliver a new locomotive shed and essential facilities
- Bring more visitors, boost local businesses and support jobs
- Invest in sustainable features like solar panels
Over £250,000 has already been secured – but £350,000 still needs to be raised to get this done and open the railway.
This project connects real places, celebrates our heritage, and strengthens our local economy.
Bexhill Jobs Fair - Friday 6th March!
Final reminder! Bexhill Jobs and Apprenticeships Fair on Friday 6 March at the De La Warr Pavilion.
Doors will be opening from 10:30 until 15:30, with a quiet time in operation from 14:00-15:30.
Exhibitors include:
- Bexhill College
- Talent Accelerator
- Connect to Work East Sussex
- Hastings Direct
- Park Holidays UK
- Ashdown Hurrey
- Bexhill Chamber of Commerce
- British Gypsum
- East Sussex College Group
- GreenBlue Urban
- Home Instead
Herstmonceux Mediveal Heritage Week
This May Bank Holiday, Herstmonceux Castle Estate will transport visitors back over 600 years for an immersive Medieval Heritage Weekend!
Taking place across the first May Bank Holiday (Saturday 2nd to Monday 4th May), this three-day festival celebrates the very origins of our castle - a fortress built in 1441 by Sir Roger Fiennes, Treasurer of the Household to Henry VI.
Check out this link to find out more!
The National Maternity and Neonatal Investigation - Call for Evidence
The National Maternity and Neonatal Investigation has launched a Call for Evidence as part of its review into maternity and neonatal services.
If you or your family have been affected by maternity or neonatal care, you are encouraged to share your experiences. Your feedback can help inform recommendations and improve services for the future.
The survey is open until 17 March and can be completed here.
If this is relevant to you or someone you know, please consider taking part.
Local Road Closures (please note this information is provided by third parties):
Bexhill
- Dalehurst Road - 26 Feb 09:45 - 2 Mar 23:59 GMT
Mountfield
- London Road - 26 Feb 07:00 - 3 Mar 04:00 GMT
Ninfield
- Marlpits Lane - 27 Jan 12:35 - 13 Mar 12:35 GMT
Northiam
- Sempstead Lane - 12 Mar 08:30 GMT - 31 Mar 16:30 BST
Herstmonceux
- Squab Lane - 6 Mar - 19 Mar
- New Road - 5 Jan 07:40 - 5 Mar 23:59 GMT
Stonegate
- Churchsettle Lane - 12 Mar - 13 Mar
Bodiam
- Bodiam Road - 28 Feb
Ticehurst
- Dunsters Mill Road: 28 January – 31 October
- New Road - 5 Jan 07:40 - 5 Mar 23:59 GMT