Our mission
We take derelict and difficult buildings around the White Rock area of Hastings into community custody, transforming them into social spaces, homes and workspaces that will always be affordable and open to all.
We celebrate people’s ideas and energy and together we shape the places and share the stories of this special, historic neighbourhood.
What is Hastings Commons?
Hastings Commons represents an innovative model for community-driven revitalization, embraced with a do-it-yourself ethos. We are the stewards of a diverse collection of structures situated within the White Rock district of Hastings.
Yet, our aspirations extend beyond mere property ownership and management. Our true focus lies on the inhabitants of these structures, their harmonious coexistence, and the way they engage in living, working, and enjoying life together. Hastings Commons stands as a shining symbol of an alternative approach to community development, crafted by the community, for the community.
Our mission
We take derelict and difficult buildings around the White Rock area of Hastings into community custody, transforming them into social spaces, homes and workspaces that will always be affordable and open to all.
We celebrate people’s ideas and energy and together we shape the places and share the stories of this special, historic neighbourhood.
What is Hastings Commons?
Hastings Commons is a pioneering approach to community-led regeneration, DIY-style. We own and manage a diverse set of buildings in the White Rock area of Hastings.
The vision is much bigger than owning and managing buildings. It’s really about the people in the buildings, how they live, work and play together. Hastings Commons serves as a beacon marking a different approach to development, for the community, by the community.
Support us:
Join the
Community
Land Trust
At the core of Hastings Commons is our Community Land Trust. Community Land Trusts are member-led, democratic, non profit organisations that own and develop land for the benefit of the community, ensuring they are permanently and genuinely affordable.
Find out more and become a member, so we can own land and buildings together for the long term benefit of our local community.
Support us: Join the Community Land Trust
At the core of Hastings Commons is our Community Land Trust. Community Land Trusts are member-led, democratic, non profit organisations that own and develop land for the benefit of the community, ensuring they are permanently and genuinely affordable.
Find out more and become a member, so we can own land and buildings together for the long term benefit of our local community.
What's going on around the Commons?
There are a number of public activities and events regularly held across Commons spaces.
- If you are interested in events at the Observer Building, check out what's on at the OB.
- Find out more about events for 11-18 year olds as part of the Hastings Youth Commons.
- Get involved in an array of different community-focused workshops and activities in The Common Room.
Recent News
Back from the Brink: The Observer Building, its rise, fall & rescue
A new book, published by Hastings Commons and chronicling the rise, fall and rescue of the historic Observer Building, in honour of its 100th birthday, is to be launched on 20th March. The book can be purchased online, directly from Hastings Commons during events and in local bookshops. Continue reading→
Trinity Triangle Heritage Showcase – a heritage celebration event
Join Hastings Commons on 20th March for an action-packed afternoon and evening of celebration to commemorate the highlights of the four-year Trinity Triangle Heritage Action Zone (TTHAZ) project which ends this March. Continue reading→
Open Meeting about the Hastings Commons
Please join us for our first open public meeting about the Hastings Commons on Thursday 15th February at 5.30pm - 7pm at the Observer Building. Continue reading→