A COUNCIL has bought a shopping centre for £12.35 million.

Wealden District Council is the new owner of the Vicarage Fields Centre in Hailsham, which includes among its tenants Waitrose.

Council leader Bob Standley, pictured, said: “We are looking to re-invigorate this important town centre site so it can play a stronger role in improving the economy of the district.

“Vicarage Fields has great potential to provide exciting regeneration opportunities in this expanding town.

“We will be consulting with retailers, the town council and other stakeholders about the best way to maximise the potential of this site.”