Ersham Road Roundabout
Project Overview
Current Status
The scheme is currently in the detailed design stage, with work ongoing to finalise the design and prepare for the next phase of delivery.
Explore the full project timeline to view progress to date and upcoming stages.
Background and Overview
The Ersham Road Roundabout scheme covers the A295 South Road, Diplocks Way and Ersham Road junctions. They are important parts of the road network in Hailsham that experience high levels of traffic and congestion, particularly at peak times. Without improvements, forecasts indicate that the junctions will struggle to accommodate future traffic growth, increase delays and affect access to Hailsham town centre, local employment areas and surrounding communities.
The Ersham Road Roundabout scheme aims to improve the operating functionality of the junction, increase capacity for future growth and improve journey time reliability. The scheme proposes to replace the existing mini-roundabout between South Road and Ersham Road, and the junction connecting South Road and Diplocks Way, with a single four-arm roundabout.
The scheme forms part of a wider package of transport improvements identified through the Movement and Access Strategy for Hailsham and Hellingly (MASHH) to support housing and employment growth in the Hailsham area. It is being delivered using Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) funding provided by Wealden District Council.
What are we doing?
Roundabout Improvements
- Construction of a new four-arm roundabout to replace the existing mini-roundabout and adjacent junction, to improve the operation of the junction, increase capacity and improve journey time reliability.
- Changes to local road access, including a new access route for The Old Bricklayers residential area, to support the operation of the new roundabout layout.
- Provision of a right-turn facility into the petrol station and retention of access arrangements to maintain access for local businesses and residents.
Walking and Cycling Improvements
- Installation of new pedestrian and cycle crossing facilities on South Road, Diplocks Way and Ersham Road to improve safety and accessibility for people walking, wheeling and cycling.
- Provision of new shared-use paths and cycle connections through the junction to improve connectivity and link with existing walking and cycling routes.
- New seating and cycle parking facilities to support and encourage active travel.
Bus Stop, Parking and Traffic Management Changes
- Creation of a new southbound bus layby and shelter on South Road to improve access to bus services and minimise impacts on traffic flow.
- Introduction of new waiting and loading restrictions around the junction to maintain traffic flow and improve safety.
- Provision of new parking spaces adjacent to Ersham Road to help maintain local parking provision in the area.
Project Timeline
Current Status
The scheme is currently in the detailed design stage, with work ongoing to finalise the design and prepare for the next phase of delivery.
Project Timeline
1. Feasibility and Option Development (2020 - 2022)
The need for improvements at the junction was identified through the Movement and Access Strategy for Hailsham and Hellingly (MASHH). Traffic data, modelling and option development work was undertaken to identify a preferred solution for the junction.
2. Public Consultation (April - May 2022)
A public consultation was carried out on proposals to replace the existing junction arrangement with a new four-arm roundabout. Feedback received during the consultation helped inform the ongoing development of the scheme. Following consultation, approval to progress the scheme was granted by the County Council’s Lead Member for Transport and Environment in October 2022.
3. Preliminary Design (2022 - 2025)
Following consultation, the scheme progressed through preliminary design and further technical assessment. This included the development of the junction layout, walking and cycling facilities, landscaping proposals and access arrangements.
4. Detailed Design (2025 - Present)
The scheme is currently progressing through detailed design, with the development of construction drawings, technical approvals and supporting documentation required to deliver the project.
5. Upcoming - Traffic Regulation Order (TRO) Consultation (expected late 2026 / early 2027)
A formal Traffic Regulation Order (TRO) consultation will be undertaken on the proposed parking, waiting and loading restrictions associated with the scheme. All comments and representations received during the consultation will be considered before decisions are made on the final proposals and the scheme is implemented.
6. Upcoming - Construction - (expected 2027)
Construction of the scheme is expected to commence following completion of the necessary statutory processes, approvals and preparatory works. Further information on construction timing will be shared as plans are finalised.
Progress Updates
Latest Progress Updates
This page will be updated regularly as the scheme progresses through design, consultation and construction. Updates may include key project milestones, consultation information, photos, phasing plans and summaries of work completed, helping you stay informed about progress and upcoming activities.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
FAQ
What is the purpose of this scheme?
The scheme will replace the existing mini-roundabout between South Road and Ersham Road, and the junction connecting South Road and Diplocks Way, with a new four-arm roundabout. The aim is to improve the operation of the junction, accommodate future growth and improve journey time reliability for people travelling through the area.
Why is the junction being improved?
The existing junctions experience high levels of traffic and congestion, particularly during peak periods. Forecasts indicate that, without improvements, the junctions would struggle to accommodate future traffic growth, resulting in increased delays and impacts on access to Hailsham town centre, local employment areas and surrounding communities.
How was the scheme developed?
The need for improvements was identified through the Movement and Access Strategy for Hailsham and Hellingly (MASHH). Traffic surveys, modelling and technical assessments have been used to develop and refine the design. A public consultation on the proposed roundabout was undertaken in 2022 and feedback received helped inform the ongoing development of the scheme.
How will the scheme affect people walking and cycling?
The scheme includes new pedestrian and cycle crossing facilities, shared-use paths and improved connections through the junction. These changes are intended to make it easier and safer for people walking, wheeling and cycling to travel through the area.
Will access to homes and businesses be maintained once construction is complete?
Yes. The scheme includes revised access arrangements where necessary and access to homes and businesses will be maintained. This includes retaining access to the BP petrol station and providing a new access arrangement for The Old Bricklayers residential area.
Why are new parking, waiting and loading restrictions being proposed?
The restrictions are intended to support the safe and efficient operation of the new roundabout and help manage parking and loading activity around the junction. Proposed measures include updated waiting restrictions, a designated loading area and parking provision adjacent to Ersham Road.
Will any trees be removed as part of the scheme?
The design has sought to retain trees where possible, however the current design is expected to require the removal of some trees to accommodate the new roundabout, walking and cycling facilities, and associated highway improvements.. Further information on tree removals and any associated approvals will be provided as the scheme progresses.
Will bus services be affected?
The scheme includes provision for a new southbound bus layby and shelter on South Road. The aim is to maintain access to bus services while supporting the operation of the new junction layout.
How will I be able to comment on the proposed restrictions?
A formal Traffic Regulation Order (TRO) consultation is expected to be undertaken on the proposed waiting, loading and parking restrictions associated with the scheme. Information on how to view the proposals and submit comments will be published when the consultation opens. A postcard will also be delivered to local residents and businesses in the vicinity of the scheme, providing details of the consultation and how to take part. The link will also be included on this project webpage when it goes live.
Glossary
Glossary
Scheme
The set of planned improvements being delivered, in this case the Ersham Road Roundabout scheme in Hailsham.
A259
A key route through Hailsham which connects the town centre with the A22 and surrounding communities.
Movement and Access Strategy for Hailsham and Hellingly (MASHH)
A transport strategy published in 2012 that identified a package of improvements required to support future growth in and around Hailsham.
Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL)
A charge paid by developers to help fund infrastructure needed to support growth. Funding from the Community Infrastructure Levy is helping to deliver this scheme.
Feasibility and Option Development
Early-stage work to assess whether a scheme is needed and identify possible solutions.
Preliminary Design
An intermediate design stage where proposals are developed in more detail and refined following consultation, technical assessments and stakeholder feedback.
Detailed Design
The final stage of design where all technical details are completed, including layouts, materials and construction requirements, before the scheme is built.
Construction
The stage when the planned improvements are built on site. This may include temporary traffic management measures while works are carried out.
Public Consultation
A process where members of the public, businesses and stakeholders are invited to provide feedback on proposed changes before decisions are made.
Traffic Regulation Order (TRO)
A legal document used by the local highway authority to regulate how roads are used. TROs can introduce measures such as parking restrictions, loading restrictions and waiting restrictions.
Traffic Regulation Order Pre-Consultation (Informal Consultation)
An informal stage carried out before the legal process, used to gather early feedback on proposed traffic regulation changes.
Traffic Regulation Order Consultation (Formal Consultation)
The statutory process where proposed Traffic Regulation Orders are formally advertised and the public can submit comments or objections.
Planning Committee
A committee of elected councillors who review specific proposals, including unresolved objections to Traffic Regulation Orders, and resolve to support or reject officer recommendations.
Tree Consultation
A consultation process to gather feedback on proposals affecting trees, such as removal or changes, including environmental considerations.
Roundabout
A type of road junction where traffic travels around a central island and gives way to vehicles already using the roundabout.
Toucan Crossing
A signal-controlled crossing designed for both pedestrians and cyclists.
Puffin Crossing
A signal-controlled pedestrian crossing that uses sensors to monitor crossing demand and adjust crossing times where necessary.
Shared-Use Path
A route that can be used by both pedestrians and cyclists.
Active Travel
Everyday journeys made by walking, wheeling or cycling.
Road Safety Audit
An independent review undertaken during the design process to identify potential road safety issues and opportunities for improvement.
Loading Restrictions
Controls on when and where vehicles can stop to load or unload, helping to reduce congestion and keep traffic moving.
Waiting Restrictions
Restrictions on the highway that prohibit vehicles from waiting or parking in a specific location, often shown by road markings such as double yellow lines.
Bus Layby
A designated area beside the carriageway where buses can stop to pick up and set down passengers without blocking traffic.
Landscaping
Planting, trees, grassed areas and other environmental improvements delivered as part of a highway scheme.
Phasing Plans
Plans showing how construction works will be carried out in stages to help manage disruption and maintain access where possible.
Road Space Booking
A process used to coordinate roadworks and other activities on the highway network to minimise disruption.
Want to know more?
General Enquiries
If you have any queries about the scheme or would like to provide feedback, please contact the East Sussex County Council Major Projects team who will assist with your query.