October 2024 newsletter to constituents

It has been a busy month with a large amount happening in the constituency and in Westminster. With cold starting to bite and winter approaching, I hope to see some real action from the government on NHS and social care soon.

See the contents for this newsletter below. Please  scroll through for any topics of interest:

• Talland Parade site in Seaford
• Pension credit and winter fuel cuts
• Cycle infrastructure
• Protesting the closure of the Phoenix Centre
• Eastbourne hospital review and funding
• Rail fares and meeting with rail operator
• Sussex GP shortages
• Climate and nature bill
• Women’s football APPG
• Water bosses bonuses
• Local visits
• Staying in touch

Talland Parade in Seaford [back to top]

The derelict Talland Parade site in the centre of Seaford remains a major concern, with buildings falling into disrepair and creating safety hazards. This key location, once a hub of activity, now needs urgent action to prevent further deterioration and restore it as a valuable part of our town. Additionally, the ongoing issue of penalty charge notices for seafront parking continues to frustrate residents and visitors alike.

I have recently asked the government about devolving more compulsory purchase powers for local councils to tackle stalled development sites like Talland Parade. The Minister’s response acknowledged the importance of these powers and encouraged councils to use them where necessary, provided there is a compelling case in the public interest. Following new guidance on the Levelling-up and Regeneration Act 2023, there is now a clear framework to support councils in utilising these new powers. I will be urging Lewes District Council to follow up on this and take action to move the Talland Parade site forward after this exchange with the relevant minister on 7th October 2024.

How to Claim Pension Credit & My opposition to the Winter Fuel Payment Cut [back to top]

I’ve been standing firmly against the government’s harmful cut to the Winter Fuel Payment, which will affect 23,816 pensioners across our constituency, including Lewes, Seaford, Polegate, Newhaven, and surrounding villages. This £300 payment is a lifeline for many, helping with heating costs during the coldest months.

A recent poll commissioned by the Liberal Democrats revealed the harsh reality of this cut—75% of pensioners expect to be impacted, with more than half planning to heat their homes less this winter. Worryingly, 40% said they would have to cut back on other essentials like food. Research from Age UK also shows that millions of pensioners will find it a struggle to pay their energy bills due to this reduction in support.

I voted against these changes because they are simply unfair. Older people shouldn’t have to choose between heating their homes and buying necessities during a cost-of-living crisis.

If you’re struggling, please check if you’re eligible for Pension Credit, which provides extra financial help to those on low incomes. Pension Credit not only boosts your weekly income but can also unlock other benefits like help with housing costs and council tax reductions.

I will continue to stand up for our pensioners in Parliament and fight for the support they deserve during these challenging times.
More info from Citizens Advice: https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/benefits/help-if-on-a-low-income/pension-credit/

Cycle Infrastructure [back to top]

I recently asked the Secretary of State for Transport about the impact of improved cycling infrastructure on employment. The Minister’s response highlighted that cycling contributes £5.4 billion annually to the UK economy, with every £1 invested in cycling infrastructure returning £2.40 in economic, social, and environmental benefits.

Investing in cycling and walking infrastructure is not only crucial for boosting the economy, but also for reducing congestion, pollution, and improving public health. I will continue to push for better active travel options across our constituency to ensure our communities benefit from safer, more accessible routes.

Phoenix Centre [back to top]

I recently joined a protest organised by Lewes Town Councillor Kevin West against the proposed closure of the Phoenix Centre, a vital adult day care facility in Lewes. The centre, which serves over-55s dealing with long-term health issues like dementia and the after effects of strokes, is at risk due to East Sussex County Council’s plan to save £4 million in cuts from the adult social care budget

The centre provides much-needed respite care, allowing carers to work or socialise while their loved ones receive top-quality care. It is baffling that the council would consider closing a facility that was recently refurbished and plays such a crucial role in our community.

This is not the first time the centre has faced closure, and I will continue to fight alongside local residents to keep it open. Cutting adult social care services is the wrong move at a time when the NHS is already under pressure from hospital backlogs and a lack of follow-up care in the community. Vulnerable residents deserve better, and I will be standing against these harmful cuts.

Watch the coverage: https://www.facebook.com/reel/28025089210423177

Eastbourne Hospital Review [back to top]

As part of our ongoing commitment to securing vital healthcare resources for our community, I’ve been working closely with neighbouring MP Josh Babarinde to push for the necessary developments at Eastbourne Hospital under the previous government's "New Hospital Scheme." During a recent briefing with the Department of Health and Secretary Wes Streeting, both Josh and I raised critical questions regarding the current state of our local health facilities and the urgent need for investment. 

Eastbourne Hospital is used by much of the constituency, Seaford, Polegate, Willingdon and more, services being sent even further away doesn’t serve those communities well.

The latest NHS data paints a troubling picture: East Sussex hospitals face an overwhelming £139 million in repairs. Of that, a staggering £96 million is attributed to Surrey and Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust, while Sussex Community NHS Foundation Trust and Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust need £19.85 million and £23.15 million, respectively, to address crucial repairs. Many of these issues are classified as 'High Risk' meaning that failing to act could lead to serious injury or major disruptions to services.

It is imperative that the new government takes swift action to address this dire situation. I called on the Chancellor to leverage any adjustments to borrowing rules to invest in our hospitals and clear the backlog of repairs. The health and safety of our constituents must be our top priority.

I firmly believe that the upcoming Budget presents a critical opportunity for the government to step up and provide the much-needed support for our local health services. We cannot afford to let our hospitals fall further into disrepair. Together, we will continue to advocate for the future of Eastbourne Hospital and ensure that our healthcare facilities meet the needs of our community.

Rail Fares & Govia Thameslink Meeting [back to top]

I have been actively pushing for a freeze on rail fares in light of the soaring costs expected in 2025. With inflation figures predicting a 4.6% rise in ticket prices, this would mean season ticket holders in our area could see an increase of hundreds of pounds. For example, a Lewes-London season ticket could rise by almost £250, and the Seaford-Brighton fare by over £70. This follows consecutive fare hikes in 2022, 2023, and 2024, resulting in a 20% increase in ticket prices in just three years.

I spoke in the commons on rail fares as  can be seen here: https://www.parallelparliament.co.uk/mp/james-maccleary/debate/2024-10-10/commons/commons-chamber/cost-of-rail-fares

Rising rail fares are simply unjustifiable when passengers are not receiving the quality of service they deserve. With nearly a million minutes lost due to signal failures since 2018, it’s clear the government’s failure to invest in our railways is hurting us all. I am calling for a freeze on rail fares to help people through the cost-of-living crisis and to encourage more use of public transport.

I recently met with Govia Thameslink Railway (GTR) to discuss improvements to services in our area, including the reintroduction of direct Seaford-London trains, ending the twice daily trains which terminate at Newhaven Harbour services instead of Seaford, improving connectivity for Willingdon and Stone Cross, and exploring long-term projects such as the Uckfield line. These improvements are critical for residents who rely on reliable rail links for work and travel.

Sussex GP Shortages & Calls for NHS Rescue [back to top]

Our local GP services are under immense strain, with new data showing that there is now just one GP per 2,196 people in the Lewes constituency. This alarming shortage is putting tremendous pressure on both patients and healthcare workers, leaving many people struggling to access the care they need.

I’ve met with the Chief Executive of NHS Sussex to discuss the urgent need for investment in healthcare facilities across Seaford, Polegate, and Willingdon. These areas desperately need modern, well-equipped health centres to meet rising demand, and I’ve been arguing for the proposed Seaford Health Hub and pushing for funding for new health centres in Polegate and Willingdon.

The government’s mismanagement of the NHS has left our health services at breaking point. It’s unacceptable that patients are left waiting weeks to see a doctor, and GPs are being overwhelmed by the number of people they need to treat. I’ve written to the Health Secretary urging immediate action to address the GP shortages and to fund our local health hubs.

I will continue to push the government for the investment our health services desperately need, and I won’t stop fighting until our NHS is properly supported.

Climate and Nature Bill [back to top]

I was proud to attend an event in support of the Climate and Nature Bill, introduced by my fellow Liberal Democrat MP, Roz Savage, as a Private Members' Bill. This bill addresses the pressing environmental challenges we face, aiming to strengthen laws around nature conservation, carbon reduction, and protecting our natural heritage. I firmly believe that urgent, bold action is needed to combat climate change, and I will continue to advocate for policies that prioritise sustainability and the environment. Here I am with colleagues showing support.

Women’s Football APPG [back to top]

I’m excited to announce that I’ve joined the Women’s Football All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG), where I’ll be raising issues brought forward by local club Lewes FC. Lewes FC is a leader in gender equality in football, paying its female and male players equally and advocating for equal FA Cup prize money. I’m a huge supporter of their work, and I’ll be taking these issues to Parliament to push for greater equality and recognition in women’s football. This is about ensuring that the growth of women’s sport is matched by fair treatment and investment at all levels.

Demanding a Ban on Water Bosses’ Bonuses After Ofwat Report [back to top]

I’ve called for an immediate ban on executive bonuses at Southern Water, following a recent Ofwat report announcing the company must pay back £31.9 million for poor performance, with South East Water also having to return £8 million. This comes as the Government’s Water Bill is debated in Parliament, which the Liberal Democrats argue is only a “half-measure.”

In 2023, there were 1,790 sewage spills in our constituency, lasting over 20,000 hours, polluting our rivers and seas with an 87% increase of sewage dumping into Lewes waterways (source: The Environment Agency) . Despite this shocking record, the chief executive of Southern Water was awarded with an £183,600 bonus, something I find unacceptable while our water is polluted.

For too long, the Conservative governmnt ignored these environmental abuses, and the new government’s current plans do not go far enough to hold these companies accountable. That's why only the Liberal Democrats can be trusted with our environment, having tabled an amendment to the bill that will put an end to water company bosses receiving bonuses until the spills are stopped, and the leaks are fixed.

I’ll continue to fight for stronger action to protect our rivers, coastline, and countryside, from places like Seaford to Ditchling and beyond. We need to end these sewage spills and restore our precious natural environment.

Local visits [back to top]

Pictures below of some my activities including; a visit to Sussex university where I got to engage with the politics society, backing local farming with fellow Sussex MPs and getting behind the wheel during my meeting on local buses with Brighton and Hove buses.

Getting in Contact [back to top]

How you can reach me to discuss any issues or concerns you have.

Sign up for my newsletter 

This is the second edition of my regular email newsletter. If you know anyone who’d like to receive this email, please forward this email on to them and ask them to sign up here:
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How to book a surgery slot

I’m already hosting regular surgeries across the constituency. I’ve had surgeries already in Seaford, Newhaven and Polegate and plan to have surgeries in Lewes and Willingdon soon. If you'd like to attend a surgery, please email James.maccleary.mp@parliament.uk using the subject line ‘Surgery request’, please include in your email a brief description of your issue, concern or what you’d like to raise along with your full address, so I can verify you are a constituent. Online surgery appointments are also available.

For any casework, please email James.maccleary.mp@parliament.uk including your address so that I know you are a constituent. I'm still setting up my office and staff team and we will respond as soon as we are able to. 

As always, I’m here to represent you and make sure your voice is heard on the issues that matter most to our communities. Please don’t hesitate to get in touch if you need any support or have questions about what’s happening locally.