IF you’ve walked through the town centre recently, you’ll have noticed something new: the long-awaited works on Terminus Road have finally begun.
These improvements are the next phase in Eastbourne’s transformation, and while they promise a more welcoming and attractive town centre, I know many businesses are understandably anxious about the disruption the next twelve months may bring.
The scheme, which stretches from Bankers Corner down to Blacks, is expected to take around a year to complete. It includes the re-pedestrianisation of Bankers Corner to the entrance of The Beacon (facing Bolton Road), as well as new surfacing on Bolton Road, Langney Road, and the stretch between Shoezone and Blacks. The aim is to create a more modern, accessible, and attractive environment that benefits visitors, shoppers, and businesses alike.
For full details, the County Council’s dedicated page offers maps, timelines, and updates: Eastbourne Town Centre Phase 2.
Works have also recommenced on Victoria Place, after the summer suspension.
Although neither projects are BID-led, we know how important it is to our business community—and how disruptive it has the potential to be. That is why we’re working closely with contractors and local authorities to make sure their concerns are heard. Already we have raised issues around deliveries and waste collections, the positioning of street furniture, and the phasing of works. We will continue to lobby on their behalf for minimal disruption and maximum transparency.
Supporting Our High Street Through The Change
While the improvements are underway, it is more important than ever that we support our high street. Businesses on Terminus Road, Bolton Road, Langney Road, and Victoria Place are at the very heart of these projects and will feel the greatest impact from the works. These are just some of the cafés, retailers, and independent traders who give Eastbourne its character and charm.
They will be trading through construction barriers and diversions. Every coffee purchased, every item or gift bought, every meal enjoyed in these areas sends a powerful message: that our community values its high street and is willing to stand by it during challenging times.
I would ask everyone—residents and visitors alike—to make a conscious choice to shop locally over the coming months. Your support will help these businesses not only survive the disruption but thrive when the improved streetscape is unveiled. The works are an investment in the future, but the success of that future depends on the resilience of the businesses operating today.
Celebrating a Vibrant Summer
We are entering a time of change, but also of opportunity. The past summer has shown just what can be achieved when we pull together as a town centre. I want to take this chance to thank the many businesses, partners, and volunteers who made 2025’s summer one to remember.
Our plant adopters deserve special praise. Across Eastbourne, fifty planters brightened the town, each carefully maintained by a local business or group who took pride in “adopting” them for the season. Small touches like this go a long way towards making our streets feel welcoming and cared for.
Mark Lane and Station Street also proved what’s possible when imagination meets partnership. For three evenings, these streets were closed to traffic and transformed into pedestrian-only spaces alive with activity. The success of the initiative has already led Sussex Police to back our calls for more evening pedestrianisation in the area.
Sport and spectacle played their part too. From the tennis fanzone to the Airbourne fanzone, businesses came together to support activities that brought thousands of visitors into the heart of town. These events not only enhance Eastbourne’s reputation as a vibrant destination, they also drive footfall directly to local businesses.
And then there’s the Farmers Market, which has quickly grown into the largest in East Sussex. This is a true partnership effort, and its success reflects the demand for quality, local produce in the heart of town.
Taken together, these successes show that when Eastbourne works together, we can achieve great things. The challenges of construction on Terminus Road will require patience, flexibility, and constant communication, but I am confident that by standing together we will come through stronger.
