July 14, 2011
Eastbourne residents are to have their chance to comment on major new plans that will shape the future of Eastbourne town centre.
The public and other key stakeholders will be asked for their views on the revised Eastbourne Town Centre Area Action Plan during a representation period to run from July 21 until September 22.
At a Council Cabinet meeting on Wednesday (July 13), members approved a revised version of the Plan – a blueprint document which will steer the delivery of a regenerated town centre.
The revised Plan recognises the importance of expanding the shopping offer and developing new public spaces to enhance the town centre to increase its attractiveness to more shoppers and visitors. The Plan also recognises the unique shopping experience of the area around the town centre and its importance to local traders. By attracting more customers to the town, all businesses will benefit.
The plan also aims to improve local transport links with particular focus on the Terminus Road bus route and acknowledges the importance of protecting the town’s heritage.
David Tutt, Leader of the Council, said: “The revised Town Centre Area Action Plan represents a once in a generation chance to shape the town centre and create an environment which meets the needs of local people.
“The new Plan reflects a huge number of comments and suggestions made during the first consultation and puts the council’s town centre regeneration vision firmly back on track.
“I would encourage as many people as possible to take part in the many planned events, both online and at the Town Hall, to ensure the town centre of tomorrow is a true reflection of the aspirations of us all.”
A number of special exhibitions will be held around town centre between August 2 and September 13 while posters and leaflets will be also distributed. The Council will also use Facebook to engage a wide audience in the plans.
A static exhibition about the Plan will be held at Eastbourne Central Library form July 21 to September 22 and at the Eastbourne Arndale Centre on August 20 and on September 9. A public surgery will also be held at Eastbourne Town Hall on Thursday September 1.
A web based representation period will run for one and a half weeks before and after the core period. All comments received will be posted on the Council’s website. Comments can be made on-line at www.eastbourne.gov.uk, where a copy of the Town Centre Area Action Plan can also be downloaded.
