New community members wanted to help decide how £20 million funding is spent

Hastings Neighbourhood Board is inviting local residents to apply for new community board member positions. This will give people across the town a chance to directly influence how £20 million of Pride in Place investment is delivered in Hastings over the next decade. 

The Board - independent from Hastings Borough Council - is looking for passionate, community‑minded people who want to make a real difference in their local community. New members will need to commit to attending four to six meetings a year as well as work collaboratively with other Board members and partners to review, shape, and approve community-driven plans and projects. 

Kevin Boorman, Independent Chair of Hastings Neighbourhood Board, said: “With this long‑term investment coming into our town, we want a Board that genuinely reflects our communities and brings a wide range of voices to the table. We’re encouraging residents who care about their neighbourhood - whether they’ve volunteered for years or are thinking about getting involved for the first time - to put themselves forward. Your experience, your insight, and your ideas matter, and they can help shape a Hastings for everyone.”

Helena Dollimore, Member of Parliament for Hastings, Rye and the Villages said: "The Government's Pride in Place fund is a once in a generation opportunity to change our town for the better. This investment should be shaped by local people, for local people. If you love our town and want to help shape this exciting opportunity, please think about applying to join the neighbourhood board."

Cllr Julia Hilton, deputy leader of Hastings Borough Council and lead councillor for shaping places and local government reorganisation, said: "We want the Hastings Neighbourhood Board to reflect the full diversity and experience of our town. We are particularly keen to hear from people from minority ethnic backgrounds and from residents with lived experience of the challenges many in Hastings face every day. Your insight is vital in helping us make decisions that truly meet the needs and aspirations of our communities."

Residents interested in joining the Board need to complete a short application form and submit it by Thursday 19 February 2026.

Whilst this is a voluntary role, we are committed to supporting inclusive participation and will work with members to ensure they can take part fully and without barriers.

For more information and to apply.