Listen to audio version below: Sponsored by Sussex Audiology Centre
PLANS to expand and convert the former Eastbourne Heritage Centre building have been approved.
On Tuesday (July 14), Eastbourne Borough Council’s planning committee approved proposals to convert Tower House — a Grade II listed former museum in Carlisle Road — into a bar and restaurant.
The proposals, submitted by Phillip Cameron of Headland Venues Ltd, include the construction of “a part single-storey, part three-storey extension” at the rear of the building.
Speaking on behalf of the applicant during the meeting, planning agent Stephen Birrell told committee members the proposals would “secure the future of Tower House”.
Mr Birrell said: “Since its closure as the Eastbourne Heritage Centre in 2025, this building has stood vacant. As we know, the most effective way to preserve a heritage asset is to ensure it remains in active, viable use.
“The proposed change of use to a restaurant lounge bar is perfectly aligned with the character of the Devonshire Quarter, as a town centre use within the town centre.
He added: “Furthermore, it will strengthen Eastbourne’s evening economy and enhance a tourism offer by rehabilitating a much-loved building in a high footfall cultural area.”
Mr Birrell also said the development would be expected to provide 15 full-time equivalent jobs.
While recommended for approval, the scheme had seen opposition from some local residents.
During the meeting, the committee heard from objector Mark Sayer, who said: “While residents support bringing this vacant asset back into use, the scale and nature of the current proposals present unacceptable planning impacts.
“My first core concern is the physical damage to a highly-prised Grade II listed building. The proposal includes a massive part single-storey and three-storey extension on to the rear of this 1880 Victorian asset.
“This aggressive addition dominates and smothers the original architectural integrity of Tower House.”
He also raised concerns around the scheme’s potential impact on highways safety and the “oversaturation” of restaurants in the area.
Similar concerns were raised by other objectors. These included concerns linked to the potential harm to the appearance of the listed building and the character of the wider area.
The council’s conservation officer was supportive of the scheme.
Heritage organisation The Eastbourne Society also came out in support of the plans.
The community opted to approve both applications in line with the officers’ recommendations.
For further information on the proposals, see applications 260233 (Full Planning Permission) and 260253 (Listed Building Consent) on the Eastbourne Borough Council website.
