Newhaven’s Saxon House Opening – a Royal Event

Supporting partners from East Sussex Fire and Rescue and Sussex Police, with Lewes District Council, members from Sussex Safer Roads Partnership (SSRP) attended the opening of the new multi-agency building Saxon House, by His Royal Highness The Duke of Gloucester, last week.

His Royal Highness, accompanied by Lord Lieutenant Peter Field, was welcomed by East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service’s Chief Fire Officer, Gary Walsh, alongside Sussex Police’s Deputy Chief Constable Robin Smith and other dignitaries on April 20th. This also included Chairman of Lewes District Council, Cllr Ruth O’Keeffe MBE, Mayor of Newhaven, Cllr Steve Saunders, and the Police and Crime Commissioner, Katy Bourne.

The new facility is currently home to East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service, Sussex Police and Lewes District Council, who share the new building in Meeching Road, Newhaven. The idea of housing partners under one roof will be a valuable asset to SSRP as it will facilitate further collaboration between them, and assist in the saving of resources. This means we can direct our funding better to priority areas where it is most needed.

On formally opening the building The Duke said, “Previously I have opened Police Stations, Fire Stations and Council buildings, but never a joint facility such as this one. It will be interesting to see if this facility remains an exception or becomes more common place.”

“Congratulations to all those who have pulled together the design for this building, it seems to be a building of great harmony.”

Chief Fire Officer Gary Walsh said: “We are privileged and honoured to receive His Royal Highness to open this modern building, which provides a valuable asset and community hub for the residents of Newhaven.”

SSRP would like to thank partners at East Sussex Fire and Rescue for inviting us along to this event. It was attended by PC Phil Barrow, Fire Fighter Clive York, and Communications Officer Ellie Treagust, all of whom spoke to The Duke and Lord Lieutenant about our road safety initiatives and educational courses. We look forward to continuing our work with all stakeholders.