Update – 2 February
Mid Sussex District Council has agreed a new cultural use for the Clair Hall site in Haywards Heath.
Following an open and externally validated procurement process, the council’s Cabinet unanimously approved a proposal from a local cultural operator to deliver a new, financially sustainable cultural venue for the town.
The approved proposal includes:
A four-screen luxury cinema.
A flexible performance and events space with professional sound and lighting.
A restaurant and bar.
A year-round programme of live performances, screenings and community events.
The operator also plans to:
Support local employment and training.
Host arts festivals and charity screenings.
Involve young people in film programming.
Work with local groups to ensure the venue is welcoming and accessible.
The council carefully considered a range of options for the site, including community-led proposals. While these were valued, they were not considered financially viable in the long term. The approved proposal was assessed as offering a sustainable future for the building while delivering a strong cultural benefit for residents.
The council will now work with the successful operator to progress the next stages of the project. Further updates will be shared on this page as plans are developed.
