Why did Bexhill business object to revitalising the town centre?

Western Road with wider pavements, extended seating outside cafés and just a few cars for access is an attractive prospect. Sheltered from our prevailing westerly winds, with a variety of individual shops, it could be a real hub of activity in Bexhill town centre. It could become the equivalent of our market square. A much more appealing space to stay around than windy Devonshire Square.

I’m baffled as to why the chamber of commerce should oppose this proposal. The perceived problems of deliveries and disabled parking can be overcome in Bexhill as they have elsewhere. ‘Access Only’ means that it is still accessible for deliveries and residents. The proposed timing was for this to be in place was between 10am and 4pm at weekends. Why do they oppose even giving the idea a trial run? I’m pretty sure we shoppers and pedestrians would love the idea and it would be extended to every day.

In addition to this being a great idea, it would have been a particularly helpful improvement during this pandemic. I suspect I’m not the only person to feel wary of Western Road. With its crowded narrow pavements I am reluctant to stay around. More space for social distancing is needed there.

It seems that lack of enthusiasm from a few in our town means the opportunity to get immediate funding through East Sussex County Council for the changes has been lost. But there will be other funds available. Come on Bexhill Chamber of Commerce. Have a re-think and back our local Rother District Council to find others ways of implementing this scheme and revitalising our town centre.

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