The development of an inpatient mental health facility in Bexhill has moved a step closer thanks to Rother District Council’s planning committee.

Councillors unanimously approved an application from Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust at a planning committee meeting on Thursday, July 21.

The hybrid application for Mount View Street, Bexhill, included full permission for the erection of an inpatient mental health facility, car park and landscaping and outline planning permission for an additional inpatient mental health facility and support facilities.

The 18-bed wards for adults and older people will replace the outdated, dormitory accommodation currently in Eastbourne.

Speaking after the meeting, planning committee chair Cllr Susan Prochak MBE, said: “Having carefully and thoroughly considered all elements of this application, we were delighted to be able to give our approval and welcome such considerable investment in much-needed local mental health services.

“There is a real need to ensure that people are able to access the best care in the best facilities as close to home as possible and we hope that this new state-of-the art provision makes it easy for residents to receive the vital support they need.”

The application included conditions and Rother District Council will continue to work with Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust as the development progresses.

The full report presented to the district council’s planning committee and a recording of discussions can be found online.

Ends.

Published: 22nd July 2022