Milestone reached in town centre scheme
THE latest phase of work to create a modern and pedestrian-friendly town centre for Eastbourne is complete.
The scheme has developed a safer pedestrian route from Eastbourne train station to the seafront, changed traffic flow, and improved access to public transport.
This phase, which was funded by the Local Growth Fund, Active Travel England, and East Sussex County Council, saw the pedestrianisation of Terminus Road between Bankers’ Corner and Marks & Spencer and two-way traffic flow introduced in Bolton Road and Langney Road.
It followed the pedestrianisation of Terminus Road between Grand Parade and Seaside Road under the Victoria Place phase of the scheme, which was funded by the Government’s Levelling Up Fund secured by Eastbourne Borough Council.
Cllr Peter Griffiths, East Sussex County Council’s Lead Member for Transport and Environment, said: “These works have been considerable and not without their difficulties. I was delighted to see the town centre fully reopened with a new, modern feel, when I visited on Tuesday.
“This makes it easier and safer for people to access the town centre, will help encourage more visitors to Eastbourne and benefit the local economy.
“The extent of this scheme has meant there has been inevitable disruption over an extended period of time, but the result is a vastly improved town centre.”
Councillor Colin Swansborough, Cabinet Member for Enterprise at Eastbourne Borough Council, said: “The improvements from the station to the seafront will greatly enhance the experience of people visiting the town centre.
“Above all, I must thank the many businesses for their patience as this important project was completed. I’m pleased that we were able to support those that experienced disruption by providing access to business rate relief.”
Work across the scheme included new paving, the planting of trees and additional planters, new seating and cycle parking, and upgraded street lighting to meet modern standards and improve safety.
Phase 1 of the scheme was completed in 2015 to coincide with work at the Enterprise Centre and included improvements to the town’s transport hub.
Ends.
Karen Bowles
Wednesday, 7 October 2026