June 2025 newsletter to constituents

As summer approaches and our communities begin to enjoy the longer days (and hopefully weather!) I wanted to take a moment to reflect and share some of the activities that I’ve been working on in recent weeks, from local issues such as the ongoing traffic crisis in Newhaven and the reopening of the Ringmer pool, to national issues like assisted dying and Palestine. 

Newhaven Traffic Crisis
The Spending Review
Ringmer Pool
Palestine
Terminally Ill Adults Bill
Youth Services 
HMP Lewes
Ukrainian Hearts visit to Parliament
Willingdon - Hindsland Development Update
Newhaven North By-Election Result
Summer Tour & Surgeries

Newhaven Traffic Crisis [back to top]

I recently met the Roads Minister to press her ahead of the Government Spending Review, for the much needed improvements to the A259 through central Newhaven and Seaford, including improvements that were recommended in the Major Roads Networks study at key A259 accident blackspots like the junction with Bishopstone Road. 

We did also have some welcome news this week with the County Council confirming that the eastbound bus lane that would have cut across the Sainsbury’s junction has been scrapped.  My thanks goes to Cllr Lesley Boniface for actively leading on this campaign.

The Spending Review [back to top]

The Government’s Spending Review coming up this week, will be an opportunity for the government to outline how exactly it plans to spend taxpayers cash. Whilst this is not a budget, and I hope there are no tax surprises, I will be keenly keeping an eye on what the government intends to do on the Winter Fuel Allowance, NHS, Defence and our Schools and Hospitals. 

Ringmer Swimming Pool [back to top]

The story of the Ringmer swimming pool is an inspiring one, it tells the tale of a community banding together to secure this important asset for generations to come. I am delighted to see the pool reopening, with LDC, ESCC and Wave Leisure all coming together to get this over the line. My sincere congratulations go to local Cllr Johnny Denis for his relentless campaigning on this issue. I was proud to speak about this during a Westminster Hall Debate on Swimming Facilities. 

Palestine [back to top]

The unfolding humanitarian disaster in Palestine as a result of Israel’s abhorrent blockade of the Strip is appalling. Whilst the government has suspended a trade deal with Israel, we must go further by ceasing all arms exports from the UK as well as sanctioning the far right ministers Ben-Gvir and Smotrich for their part, and immediately recognising Palestine as a state as the only way to affirm the right of Palestinians to self-determination as only a two-state solution will deliver security and dignity to both Palestinians and Israelis.

Terminally Ill Adults Bill [back to top]

Many constituents have written to me on the topic of this Bill, also known as the Assisted Dying Bill. I am grateful to everyone who has been in touch with me on this subject. In particular, those constituents with alternative perspectives to my own and those with very personal stories they have shared with me. 

Whilst I have kept an open mind throughout the process and reviewed amendments as they have been made, I voted for the Bill at its second reading and it is my intention to vote for the bill later this month. 

Youth Services [back to top]

I was sad to hear news that the Youth Club in Newhaven was closing its sessions after the recent combination of the Minimum Wage and National Insurance Contributions rises, forcing the SCDA to make this difficult decision. They’re being penalised for doing the right thing – creating jobs and supporting young people. It’s not right. We need proper, long-term funding for youth services – so that our young people get the best possible start in life.

Lewes Prison [back to top]

I raised my concerns about HMP Lewes in the chamber of the House, regarding the high levels of violence, drug misuse, and self-harm – following a damning inspection earlier this year. The Minister assured me that improvements are continuing to be made under the leadership of the new Governor. I’ll continue to press for proper support and investment to ensure staff are backed, rehabilitation is prioritised and our community is kept safe. 

Ukrainian Hearts Visit [back to top]

It was a privilege to welcome local women-led Lewes group the Ukrainian Hearts to Westminster for a tour recently. They are a brilliant organisation that has helped Ukrainians settle into our community as well as working with childrens hospital’s around Ukraine to help children with cancer. 

Hindslands Update [back to top]

I’m delighted to see the positive progress that has been made on delivering a new health hub for Willingdon, with Wealden District Council, the ICB and GPs working collaboratively to get this project delivered. Vistry, the owners of Rushlake Meadows, have also confirmed that the entirety of the open market sale of homes have been sold to Leaf Living who are providing them as privately rented homes. 

Newhaven North by-election [back to top]

Huge congratulations to the newly elected Liberal Democrat Councillor Corina Watts in Newhaven North! She won with a clear majority, polling 52% of the votes cast. I know Corina will be a fantastic addition to the District Council. Having been a tremendous Town Councillor, she brings experience and the determination to get things done that Newhaven needs. I'm very happy to welcome her to the team. 

Summer Tour and Surgeries [back to top]

With the summer recess fast approaching, I am looking forward to getting out and around our patch of Sussex over the summer visiting our local towns and parishes. Please do say hi at one of our pop up surgeries and if you’d like to book a surgery appointment please email my office at james.maccleary.mp@parliament.uk so that my team can help you with a booking.