Plans Submitted To Turn Former Eastbourne Heritage Centre Into Bar And Restaurant

Plans to transform the former Eastbourne Heritage Centre into a bar and restaurant are set to go before councillors next week.

Eastbourne Borough Council’s planning committee will consider the proposal for the Grade II listed building in Carlisle Road on Tuesday (14 July).

The plans, submitted by Headland Venues Ltd, include a part single-storey and part three-storey extension at the rear of the building to provide kitchen facilities, toilets, storage and other operational areas.

The proposal has received 59 objections from residents across two linked applications, with concerns raised about the impact on the appearance of the listed building and the character of the surrounding area.

However, the council’s conservation officer has backed the plans, saying the redevelopment would help bring a "much-loved building" back into active use while maintaining public access.

The Eastbourne Society has also expressed support for the scheme.

Council planning officers are recommending approval, saying the proposals would secure the future of the vacant Grade II listed building and support the economy and visitor appeal of the Devonshire Quarter.

The former museum closed last year, and officers say the loss of its previous use should carry limited weight when considering the application.

A decision will be made by councillors at Tuesday’s planning committee meeting.