James MacCleary Takes Talland Parade Saga to Government

James MacCleary, MP for Lewes, has taken the ongoing Talland Parade saga to the government, meeting with Alex Norris MP, Minister in the Department for Housing, Communities, and Local Government, to push for action.

Joined by Cllr Carolyn Lambert and Lewes District Council representatives, James asked the government for support with the use of a compulsory purchase order (CPO) to bring the site into council ownership for the development of council homes.

Advice from the department suggest that recent updates to government advice and legislation now make a CPO a viable solution, giving the council the tools needed to take action. James is committed to working with the council to ensure this opportunity is taken up.

The Talland Parade site has remained undeveloped for more than a decade, despite having planning permission. The site has fallen into disrepair leading to the closure of local shops. In the meeting organised by James, the council presented photos and outlined the history of attempted actions, including a high court case led by Lib Dem Seaford councillor Stephen Gauntlett and local residents which resulted in the removal of the anti-social scaffolding on the site. The developer has repeatedly done minimal work before halting and has avoided significant progress over several years.

James MacCleary MP said: "Over a decade has passed since planning permission was granted, and Seaford has suffered enough. I'm pleased the minister took the time to meet with me and was positive in engaging on the best steps to take next.

 "It's time to take bold action. I'll work closely with Lewes District Council to make the case for a CPO and finally end this blight on our community."

Cllr Carolyn Lambert, County Councillor for Seaford South said: "I am very pleased the minister met with us and very much hope we can now unlock the potential of this key site. Residents of Seaford, including me, have had to put up with the non-action of this cynical developer for far too long."