Eastbourne Borough Council – News – September 2026

New bus shelters taking shape across Eastbourne

^{Cllr Tom Nevill} 

Residents are beginning to see the benefits of Eastbourne’s bus shelter replacement programme, with the first 15 shelters now installed across the town.

They are being introduced as part of a wider programme to replace ageing infrastructure with modern facilities that include improved seating, enhanced lighting and accessibility features.

The programme involves the replacement of 164 bus shelters across Eastbourne with half of these expected to be in place by the end of October.

Councillor Colin Swansborough, Cabinet Member for Regulatory Services, Staff and Performance, Enterprise, said: “It’s great to see the new shelters appearing across Eastbourne and for residents to begin experiencing the benefits they will bring.

“These modern shelters have been designed to provide improved comfort, accessibility and safety for bus passengers, while also supporting our wider sustainability ambitions.

“We recognise that people have been waiting for the new shelters and appreciate their patience while the programme progresses. We are continuing to work closely with the contractor to ensure the remaining shelters are delivered as quickly as possible.”

All work is scheduled for completion by mid-February.

Councillor Tom Nevill, Upperton ward councillor, added: “For many residents, particularly older people and those who rely on public transport, bus shelters provide an important service throughout the year.

“The new shelters will offer improved protection from the elements and better accessibility features, helping to make travelling by bus a more comfortable experience.

“It’s encouraging to see the programme moving forward, with more shelters due to be installed in the coming months.”

The contractor previously reported delays in the manufacture of some shelters, resulting in a gap between the removal of older shelters and the arrival of their replacements. Installation work is now progressing across the town, with new shelters being put up every week.

Consultation green light for Eastbourne’s proposed new Local Plan

Cabinet councillors have endorsed Eastbourne’s proposed new Local Plan and recommended that Full Council approve a six-week public consultation, giving residents, businesses and stakeholders the opportunity to submit formal representations on plans that could shape the town’s future until 2042.

The representation period, which would start on Friday, October 2, represents the final stage of public engagement before the Local Plan is submitted to government for independent examination ahead of its deadline of December 31, 2026. Representations submitted on the plan at this stage should focus on whether the plan is legally compliant and sound.

The Proposed Submission Local Plan has been developed following several stages of public consultation since 2019 and is supported by an extensive evidence base covering housing, infrastructure, transport, flood risk, biodiversity, environmental sustainability and economic development. The plan sets out where new homes, jobs, infrastructure and community facilities could be delivered across the borough over the next 16 years.

The plan prioritises brownfield redevelopment, supports sustainable economic growth, promotes climate resilience and nature recovery, and seeks to ensure that future development is supported by the infrastructure needed to meet the needs of residents and communities.

Councillor Colin Swansborough, Cabinet Member for Regulatory Services, Staff and Performance, Enterprise, said:

“This is an important opportunity for residents, businesses and community organisations to have their say on plans that will help shape Eastbourne’s future over the next two decades.

When the consultation goes live on October 2, people are invited to view the proposals and submit comments by visiting www.lewes-eastbourne.gov.uk/eastbourne-local-plan

Council and LTA in talks to secure long-term future of international tennis in Eastbourne

Cabinet councillors have endorsed ongoing discussions between Eastbourne Borough Council and the Lawn Tennis Association (LTA) on a new long-term lease that would secure the future of international tennis in Eastbourne while expanding year-round opportunities for the wider community at Devonshire Quarter.

The Eastbourne Open International Tennis Tournament attracts almost 50,000 spectators each year and generates a £5 million boost to the local economy. The tournament has been a fixture in Eastbourne for more than 50 years and remains one of the highlights of the international grass-court season.

Councillor Jenny Williams, Cabinet Member for Tourism and Place, said:

“Our number one priority is to safeguard international tennis in Eastbourne for generations to come while unlocking new investment to increase access to sport for local schools, tennis clubs, community groups and residents of all ages.

“Of course, we also have a responsibility to ensure the most financially sustainable arrangements are in place for local taxpayers.

“I’m delighted that discussions with our partners at the LTA have been very positive and constructive, and we look forward to continuing those conversations over the weeks ahead.”

Under the proposals currently being discussed, the LTA would operate the site year-round and invest in a range of improvements. These are expected to include increased public access to courts outside the tournament period, the construction of new padel courts, enhanced opportunities for schools, community groups and tennis clubs, and improved facilities for players, officials and spectators.

While no final agreement has been reached, Cabinet approval enables the next phase of negotiations to begin, including the development of detailed proposals and legal arrangements.

Community invited to Eastbourne Mayor’s Harvest Festival

The Mayor of Eastbourne is inviting people to join her for the Civic Harvest Festival on Sunday, October 4.

The service will take place at Emmanuel Church, in Upperton Road, starting at 10.30am. Guests attending are asked to arrive and be seated by 10.15am.

As part of the celebrations, held in partnership with Emmanuel Church, attendees are encouraged to bring donations of non-perishable food items, including dried and canned goods and non-refrigerated dairy products. All food collected will be donated to Matthew 25 Mission, one of the Mayor’s chosen charities for the year.

There will also be a retiring collection in support of the Mayor’s charities, SASBAH (The Sussex Association for Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus) and Matthew 25 Mission. SASBAH supports people living with Spina Bifida, Hydrocephalus and related conditions, while Matthew 25 Mission works with vulnerable and marginalised members of the local community facing challenges such as homelessness, mental health issues and substance misuse.

The Mayor of Eastbourne, Councillor Margaret Bannister, said: “Harvest Festival is a wonderful opportunity to come together as a community, give thanks for what we have and support those who need a helping hand. I would encourage residents to join us for this special civic service and, if they are able, bring a food donation or contribute to support two wonderful local charities. Every donation, no matter how small, will help make a difference to people facing hardship.”

Following the service, tea, coffee and cake will be served.

Anyone unable to attend the service but wishing to donate food items for Matthew 25 Mission or contribute to the Mayor’s charities can leave donations at the Town Hall, for the attention of the Mayor’s Office, by Friday, October 2. Cheques should be made payable to The Mayor of Eastbourne’s Charity.

The Mayor’s Office can be contacted on 01323 415020 or by emailing mayorsoffice@lewes-eastbourne.gov.uk.

Were you, or someone you know, affected by the Armed Forces LGBT Ban?

Whether you were dismissed, discharged or affected in other ways, by the Armed Forces LGBT ban, you can apply for financial and other forms of recognition.

Support is available every step of the way throughout the application process.

“If any part of you thinks you should apply, then you should. You have nothing to lose, and so much to gain.” – Dawn, Royal Navy Radio Operator

Don’t leave it too late, the deadline for applications is 12 December 2026.

Find out what’s available and apply at: gov.uk/affected-by-the-ban