We have detailed some key highlights from the Cabinet meeting, held on Monday 16th June 2025.
Housing Development Strategy
Cabinet members discussed the proposed adoption of the Council’s Housing Development Strategy.
The Strategy provides a framework to meet housing needs in the district, with a focus on social and affordable homes.
A public consultation was carried out on the draft plan earlier this year. The majority of comments from organisations responding to the consultation were very positive, with a similar positive return from residents.
Councillor Ruairi McCourt, lead portfolio holder for housing, said: “We recognise the importance of having quality, affordable housing for our residents and communities. “This strategy will give an effective framework and mandate for Rother to meet the housing needs and aspirations of our residents. It recognises the importance of increasing delivery of all forms of housing but with a focus on social and affordable homes.”
Members agreed to recommend that full Council adopts the Strategy.
Holiday and second homes
A report was presented to cabinet on the issue of second homes and short-term holiday lets in the district.
Cabinet noted that the Council intends to work with Government when it introduces a national electronic registration scheme for short-term holiday lets. The authority also wants to carry out research into the potential of a tourist levy.
Cllr Hazel Timpe, lead portfolio holder for tourism, said: “The importance of the tourist industry cannot be underestimated. The sector provides millions of pounds for our local economy and employs thousands of people. “However, we must also recognise the impact of second homes and short-term holiday lets on our communities – in particular on the availability of housing for residents.”
Cabinet agreed that the Council should look to work with the hospitality industry to encourage visitors to stay longer than one or two days.
Cllrs also want to see more information made available on the requirements for short-term holiday let owners, and dedicated channels for local people to report their concerns. Cabinet also agreed that the Council should look at all means to prioritise housing for local people.
Public Convenience Buildings Update
Cabinet members received an update report on plans for local businesses to lease public convenience sites.
In late 2024, 14 sites were put forward. The plan was for businesses to open and at the same time provide public conveniences for residents and visitors.
Subject to approval, Cabinet was informed that 12 sites have been chosen, located in Battle, Bexhill, Rye, Sedlescombe, and Winchelsea. The vast majority are planned to open as coffee shops.
Cabinet noted that in addition to the sites in question, there are a further 15 public conveniences that will remain open across the district, operated by a combination of Rother District Council and Parish & Town Councils.
Cllr Christine Bayliss, lead portfolio holder for economic development, said: “This plan is a brilliant example of how a Council, working with its partners, can save money for taxpayers and still provide the service. “Public conveniences are being made available to local people at no extra cost to taxpayers, and at the same time businesses are opening up and employment opportunities are being created.”
Cabinet approved the plan to lease the 12 public convenience buildings.
Published: 25th June 2025
