Mid Sussex District Council has launched the search for an experienced Development Partner to help deliver its ambitious plans for the redevelopment of the Clair Hall site in Haywards Heath.

The procurement launch follows the Council's Cabinet decision on Monday 2 February 2026 to appoint its Cultural Operator, the Digital Picture House. The operator will bring forward proposals for a four-screen cinema, multiuse performance space, community facilities equipped with professional sound and lighting, and an onsite restaurant

Cllr Robert Eggleston, Leader of Mid Sussex District Council, said: "The redevelopment of Clair Hall marks an important moment for Haywards Heath and for Mid Sussex as a whole. For many years, residents have told us they want to see this site revitalised – full of life and contributing meaningfully to our town.

"Now, we have the opportunity to deliver exactly that: a modern multiuse development complete with a four screen cinema, cultural venue, homes and a restaurant that reflects the investment that has already been made into the town and strengthens our local economy, supports our evening offer, and gives people more reasons to spend time in the heart of our community."

Further information, including key tender documents, is available on the procurement portal: https://in-tendhost.co.uk/sesharedservices/aspx/Tenders/Current

Mid Sussex District Council has today (Tuesday 17th February 2026) named the Cultural Operator for the new Clair Hall development.

Family-owned entertainment company, The Digital Picture House Limited, which owns cinema and restaurant venues in Uckfield and East Grinstead, has been selected to provide a four-screen cinema with multi-use performance space and community facilities, equipped with professional sound and lighting, and restaurant at the Clair Hall site in Haywards Heath.

The selection was made by the Council's cabinet on Monday 2nd February 2026 following a robust procurement process validated by an independent panel of experts. The name of the successful bidder could only be released after completion of a legal process.

Cllr Robert Eggleston, Leader of Mid Sussex District Council, comments: "We are delighted to be able to finally name the Cultural Operator unanimously agreed by Cabinet.

"The Digital Picture House Limited has an exceptional reputation and history for creating a destination that is accessible to all. With their deep knowledge, proven experience and strong community focus, we are confident that they will make a real success of the new offering at Clair Hall."

The Digital Picture House Limited is a family-owned cinema and restaurant operator, established in 1964 by Mid-Sussex resident, Roy Marwick.

Now, under the stewardship of son Kevin Marwick, the company provides an entertainment destination with a strong focus on community development through the provision of strong cultural partnerships, collaborations with local charities and the engagement of young people and minority communities.

Kevin Marwick, chief executive of The Digital Picture House, said: "We are beyond delighted to be selected to be the operator of choice for Clair Hall.

"Our vision is to carry on our tradition of providing a community-friendly venue and restaurant that makes cultural experience accessible to all.

"We have gained a strong support from the residents of Uckfield through our focus on quality and community and are looking forward to bringing the same ethos to Haywards Heath to establish a venue that benefits the community now and for years to come."

Cllr Eggleston adds: "Now the Digital Picture House is in position, we are moving forward to procure a developer for the site, which will work with us and the Digital Picture House to breathe new life into the venue."

For more information on Clair Hall visit www.midsussex.gov.uk or follow Mid Sussex District Council on Facebook, Instagram and X. Further details on The Digital Picture House can be found at: www.picturehouseuckfield.com

Mid Sussex District Council's Cabinet has today (Monday 2nd February 2026) confirmed the future of Clair Hall in Haywards Heath.

Following a rigorous and externally validated process led by an independent panel of experts, the Cabinet unanimously decided to accept a proposal from a local cultural company which will deliver a thriving and financially sustainable facility for local people.

Cabinet also carefully considered a community bid to reuse the existing buildings. Cabinet, and the Council's independent expert advisers concluded that their business strategy was not robust relying too heavily on an unverified external funder and grant funding. Cabinet concluded that the bid did not provide the confidence required for it to be accepted.

Following a robust procurement exercise Cabinet reviewed and accepted the proposal provided by the cultural partner to provide a four-screen luxury cinema, alongside a multi-use performance space equipped with professional sound and lighting. The proposal also includes a full-service restaurant/bar, and the opportunity to provide a rich variety of live and community-orientated cultural events, including live-screenings of theater and other performances.

The development process will provide employment opportunities, prioritising local recruitment and training, as well as hosting local arts festivals, young film programmers, and charity screenings.

Cllr Robert Eggleston, Leader of Mid Sussex District Council said: "I am confident we have made the right decision for the site, residents and the future of Haywards Heath.

"This delivers a sustainable venue and an excellent cultural offer — a place to meet, experience, work, and potentially live, for generations to come.

"The provider brings extensive networks and experience, offering more live performance space than originally specified and committing to over 150 hours of live events from artists that may not traditionally come to our area.

"We understand the disappointment of some community groups, but the ACV proposal was not financially viable. We also acknowledge concerns from the Scouts; the Council has a long history of supporting the scouts and will continue to do so wherever possible."

Community Festival 8 and 9 May, 10.30am to 4pm Free

Wakehurst, Sussex, RH17 6TN

• Community Access Scheme (CAS) celebrates reaching 100 groups milestone
• Represents 58% growth in the past year
• Designed for organisations supporting people who may experience barriers to visiting
• Free Community Festival on 8 and 9 May offers a taste of CAS
• Packed calendar of Discovery and Access workshops throughout 2026

www.kew.org/about-us/press-media/wakehurst-community-festival

Mid Sussex District Council's Cabinet will, on 2nd February 2026, consider the future of Clair Hall.

The Council, in June 2025, triggered the Asset of Community Value process, which gives communities the opportunity to express an interest in the site. Simultaneously, the Council also went to market to find a potential cultural partner to progress plans for a new cultural offer.

In response to these processes, the Council has received an expression of interest from Haywards Heath Community Community Interest Company (HHC CIC), which will be considered first by Councillors. The Council has also received a proposal from a potential cultural partner, which would only be considered by Cabinet should the Asset of Community Value submission not be accepted.

Papers were published on the Mid Sussex District Council Website on Friday 23rd January, in advance of the Cabinet meeting on 2nd February 2026. Full details of all Council meetings can be found at: About the Council - Mid Sussex District Council and the full report pack for the meeting located at: Agenda for Cabinet on Monday, 2nd February, 2026, 1.00 pm - Mid Sussex District Council

Mid Sussex District Council (MSDC) has signed a conditional agreement to form a partnership with owners of the Martlets Shopping Centre in Burgess Hill, NewRiver Reit plc (NRR).

The agreement means that if key conditions are satisfied, the redevelopment will commence during the summer of 2026.

This agreement has been achieved in the face of tough commercial conditions in the construction and retail markets.

For further information and updates visit www.midsussex.gov.uk

Students were tasked with designing, building and racing vehicles powered by potential energy at the launch of this year's Mid Sussex STEM Challenge.

The launch event took place at the Council Chamber of Mid Sussex District Council in Haywards Heath on Friday, October 24 (1.30pm)

A new state-of-the-art outdoor sporting facility is now open in Burgess Hill.

Officially named The Arc and developed in partnership with Homes England, the newly developed centre represents an investment in health, wellbeing and community connection in Burgess Hill. It will provide accessible, high-quality spaces for sport and recreation for communities and sport clubs both in the local area, and more widely across Mid Sussex.

The Arc supports development opportunities for young people and adults by providing inclusive facilities for 

• A floodlit 3G football pitch
• An artificial grass rugby pitch
• A modern changing facility
• Three junior natural turf football pitches
• A full-sized natural turf football pitch
• An artificial cricket wicket with a turf outfield

Leader of the Council, Councillor Robert Eggleston, said "The Arc is a fantastic addition to Burgess Hill and a testament to what can be achieved through strong partnerships and a commitment to community development.

"The new sporting facility has been designed by the local community for the local community, ensuring it becomes a valued and integral part of local life. We're excited to see it become a hub for sport, health, wellbeing and connection."

Located on an 8.6-hectare site, The Arc is part of the Brookleigh development, which is providing 3,500 homes (30% affordable), public spaces, infrastructure and community facilities in Mid Sussex.

Neil Miller, Head of Development (South) at Homes England, said, "Brookleigh is providing a sustainable new community in Mid Sussex, and The Arc plays an important role in this, we look forward to seeing it enjoyed by the local community."

The outdoor sporting facility has been funded in part through developer contributions (known as Section 106) ensuring that the new community centre is directly supported by local development, building meaningful connections with the community and a sense of shared ownership from the very beginning.

It has also been developed through extensive consultation with the local sporting community, Sport England and National Sporting Governing Bodies.

The Arc has already received 22 different club bookings from September to the end of April. Bookings have been placed by a variety of clubs including Burgess Hill Football Club and Burgess Hill Rugby Football Club, who have confirmed fixtures at the new facility, which will remain open year-round.

The Arc will be operated by leading social enterprise Places Leisure, who also manage three other leisure facilities in the district.

To find out more or to book the facility, visit www.placesleisure.org/centres/the-arc/

https://sussexfoodanddrink.org/sussex-six-launched-in-mid-sussex/

https://www.sussexexpress.co.uk/education/in-photos-and-video-students-race-drones-at-south-of-england-showground-for-mid-sussex-stem-challenge-2025-5210139 

https://www.southdowns.gov.uk/vine-tastic-south-downs-winemakers-raise-a-toast-to-climate-action/

Mid Sussex District Council takes next steps for Clair Hall - Mid Sussex District Council

https://eastsussexbrightonhovewestsussexlvep.com/2025/05/21/appointment-of-lvep-advisory-board/

https://panattoni.co.uk/success-continues-at-next-letting-at-panattoni-park-burgess-hill/

https://panattoni.co.uk/panattoni-agrees-letting-at-burgess-hill-mid-box-development-to-healthcare-logistics-provider/

Following the Council's recent decision to progress the formation of a Joint Venture with NewRiver REIT plc (NewRiver), which aims to deliver the redevelopment of Martlets Shopping Centre in Burgess Hill, both parties are jointly delivering a series of activities to mark their commitment to the partnership and help enliven the school holiday and festive periods for the local community. 

https://www.ukreiif.com/investment-news/mid-sussex-ukreiif/

13 community grant applications totalling over £35,000 were agreed for Mid Sussex at the most recent meeting of the Cabinet Grants Panel.

These initiatives include support for projects like the establishment of a repair café for The Dudley House Trust, the procurement of musical instruments for Burgess Hill Marching Youth, the facilitation of dementia-friendly film screenings for The Chequer Mead Arts & Community Trust, and updating first aid training, safeguarding awareness, and coaching skills at Hurstpierpoint Gymnastics Club.

The Grants Panel also unanimously approved the release of £164,300 from Section 106 funds to finance community projects. Scheduled for release in the spring, these funds, sourced from local developers, provide the council with the flexibility to invest in various community projects such as parks, housing, leisure facilities, and schools.

Among the successes are the installation of a multi-use games area at Copthorne Recreation Ground and the allocation of additional funds for the reconstruction of Haywards Heath Rugby Football Club's clubhouse.

Alison Bennett, Deputy Leader at Mid Sussex District Council, said: "It has been a fantastic year for grant applications, with more submissions made than ever before, and we thank everyone for taking the time to apply for a grant.

"These projects highlight the positive steps we're making in developing our community. With the addition of new sports facilities and the refurbishment of essential spaces, we're creating a more vibrant and welcoming environment for all residents to enjoy. Each project reflects our commitment to ensuring that everyone in our District has access to the best possible resources and opportunities." 

The swimming pool at Dolphin Leisure Centre, owned by Mid Sussex District Council and run by Places Leisure, is delighted to announce that it has been awarded a generous grant of £44,735 from the Government's Swimming Pool Support Fund (SPSF).

This significant financial boost will play a crucial role in supporting the centre's ongoing commitment to providing excellent aquatic facilities and services to the local community.

This grant will be influential in the Dolphin Leisure Centre's efforts to enhance the overall experience for visitors. The funds will go towards crucial maintenance and equipment upgrades, reinforcing the Centre's commitment to the well-being and happiness of its patrons. This is a part of Places Leisure's wider mission to help create active spaces that are inclusive, innovative, and environmentally friendly, ensuring their facilities give value back to the communities they serve.

Councillor Chris Hobbs, Cabinet Member for Leisure and Customer Services at Mid Sussex District Council, said: "We are thrilled to have received this generous grant from the Swimming Pool Support Fund to invest in The Dolphin Leisure Centre. The grant is a testament to the dedication of the teams to maintain high standards and ensure that its facilities remain accessible and enjoyable for all.

"This funding will help us to continue providing a safe and enjoyable environment for the community to stay active and healthy. The local community can look forward to an even more enjoyable experience at Dolphin Leisure Centre and we extend our sincere gratitude to the Government and the Swimming Pool Support Fund for recognising the importance of supporting recreational facilities like ours."

Geoff Evans, Contract Manager for Dolphin Leisure Centre said "This grant from the Swimming Pool Support Fund will help form part of our continued investment of providing the very best facilities for our community to stay active and healthy. As part of this investment, we are also pleased to demonstrate our commitment to becoming more environmentally sustainable."

To find out more, please visit: https://www.placesleisure.org/centres/the-dolphin/

Mid Sussex District Council has signed a new contract with the Sussex Film Office, a collaboration that is set to promote Mid Sussex as a top filming and photography destination.

The Sussex Film Office, a local company based in West Sussex, will be offering Mid Sussex District Council a comprehensive filming service, covering many aspects including advertising and booking in production companies. They will also work to actively promote Mid Sussex as an attractive destination for filming and photography.

Ian Gibson, Cabinet Member for Sustainable Economy and Housing at Mid Sussex District Council, said: "We are thrilled to announce this partnership with the Sussex Film Office. This collaboration not only streamlines our filming processes but also positions Mid Sussex as an attractive and sought-after location for film and photography projects.

"We are looking forward to working closely with the Sussex Film Office as we begin to create engaging stories against the backdrop of our district. The new partnership highlights our commitment to showcasing the unique features and stunning landscapes that define Mid Sussex and we are excited to see the positive impact it will bring to our community."

This collaboration marks a strategic move for Mid Sussex District Council as it aims to build on past successes in the region. Notably, the Urban Park in Burgess Hill played host to the filming of the acclaimed Grace series. By entering into a formal contract with the Sussex Film Office, the Council aims to showcase Mid Sussex's diverse and picturesque landscapes as a recurring choice for film-makers.

With a shared vision for promoting Mid Sussex's unique offerings, this partnership is set to increase the appeal of the district on a broader scale.

To find out more, please visit: https://www.midsussex.gov.uk/business-licensing/filming-in-mid-sussex/