Status: Current
Should the council add a public space protection order for a ban on flying vehicles taking off or landing within 50 metres of Galley Hill, Bexhill? This is a public consultation seeking the views of residents, Galley Hill public space users and local businesses. This consultation will close in January 2026.
Background
It is already against the byelaws to take off or land a flying vehicle from Galley Hill. The Council adopted byelaws under section 164 of the Public Health Act 1875, section 12 and 15 of the Open Spaces Act 1906, in 2001. The Byelaw states: “No person shall, except in case of emergency, or with the consent of the Council, take-off from or land in the ground in an aircraft, helicopter, hang-glider or hot-air balloon. A copy of the byelaws is displayed on a sign at Galley Hill.
Proposed Public Space Protection Order
The council proposes to make a public space protection order (PSPO) that prohibits the launching of flying aircraft, of any sort, within 50 metres of Galley Hill, Bexhill.
A PSPO adds more powers to help with enforcement. It can be a useful tool because it is an immediate, on-the-spot deterrent. It will help enforce the existing byelaws.
A PSPO gives the council’s designated employees and Sussex Police powers to immediately issue formal warnings and a penalty notice (a fine). A fixed penalty notice is an immediate penalty compared to waiting for a court date and decision. A public space protection order is designed to cover only specific anti-social behaviour in specific public open spaces.
A fixed penalty notice will be for £100 as an alternative to prosecution using the Byelaw.
By ‘Galley Hill’ we mean the uphill section of the recreation ground and public open space that runs from Sutton Place alongside De La Warr Parade and to the eastern side of the hill beyond the play area to the end of the green space.
This proposal is in response to complaints from some residents and users of the public open space at Galley Hill regarding concerns about public safety and impacting their use of the space.
The council has undertaken discussions already with Sussex Police.
We want you to have your say
We would welcome views, personal experiences and any information that the council should take into account before making a decision.
We would particularly welcome hearing from neighbouring businesses and any organisations located near Galley Hill, including leisure, voluntary and public sectors. In addition, we wish to hear from nearby residents and Bexhill residents in general if they use the public open space.
Our main questions are
a) whether or not launching flying vehicles is an issue,
b) if you agree or disagree with adding a PSPO and why and
c) any special circumstances, exceptions or changes you would make to a PSPO.
However, you are welcome to submit any evidence or comment on any other matter you feel is relevant to the proposed PSPO.
How to take part
Please use our online questionnaire – https://www.smartsurvey.co.uk/s/GalleyHill/
If you have questions or evidence to submit that would not suit a questionnaire, please email consultations@rother.gov.uk
Please mark your email ‘Galley Hill PSPO consultation’.
You may respond in writing by dropping off or posting to the Galley Hill PSPO Consultation, Rother District Council, Town Hall, Town Hall Square, Bexhill TN39 3JX.
