About

For over 30 years the Hastings Trust worked with scores of local partners on hundreds of initiatives to improve the quality of life for people in Hastings and St Leonards-on-Sea. This website is a record of that achievement and a resource for those who follow. It contains publications, presentations and film produced by the Trust which can be freely downloaded.

Material produced by the Hastings Urban Conservation Project (HUCP), which preceded the Trust, is also included as well as a few items about the Trust produced by others.

In 2011 it became clear to staff and trustees that the Trust had become too difficult to manage. After seeking advice and an attempt at a 'fresh start' it was decided in 2016 to close the organisation down by means of a Members Voluntary Liquidation (MVL). A summary of the closure process can be seen here.

The Hastings Trust Legacy Website was commissioned by Hastings Trust in Voluntary Liquidation and is hosted by Hastings Voluntary Action. Apart from a handful of video interviews, it contains only historic material that has already been in the public domain.  Researchers wanting more information should get in touch using the Contact form

The Hastings Trust Legacy Website
Editor: Nick Wates.
Commissioning: Tracy Jones and Steve Manwaring.
Film editing: Keith Rodway.
Digitising: Clare Burnett, Keith Gillies, Nick Weekes.
Contributors: Kevin Carias, Rhonda Ellard, Christine Goldschmidt, Sally Lampitt and Heather Smith.

Endorsements for the Hastings Trust Legacy Website

Timeline

  • 2025

    VAT issues resolved. Awaiting tax clearance from HMRC.

  • 2018

    Legacy website goes live.

  • 2016

    Trust put into voluntary liquidation. Robertson Street property sold. Office moved to Silchester Mews. 

  • 2013

    Trustees decide to wind down the Trust due to anticipated financial difficulties. 

  • 2005

    Opening of the Bridge Community Centre

  • 2002

    Purchase of Silchester Mews as a community hub for St Leonards.

  • 1998

    Trust establishes town centre presence by opening a resource centre at 34 & 35 Robertson Street.

  • 1992

    Trust moves to a house in Wellington Square

    St Mary-in-the-Castle appeal launched.

  • 1991

    Hastings Trust formed as an independent limited company and charity to take over from HUCP.

  • 1988

    HUCP moves from temporary premises in George Street to a shop with basement at 58a High Street. HUCP extended to a 4-year project with a requirement to become independent.

  • 1985

    Formation of the Hastings Urban Conservation Project (HUCP) as a 3-year local government partnership project (by HBC, ESCC and English Heritage).