£100k windfall give Pavilion revamp a boost

The cash comes from English Heritage in recognition of the 'national significance' of the De La Warr Pavilion and the 'essential nature' of its refurbishment.

The money will be spent on restoring the North Staircase to its original condition so it can be enjoyed by the general public. It will also pay for work to repair the structural frame and the windows, which are currently shabby.

A spokesperson said: "With 6.8m of the total refurbishment bill now raised, the award marks the beginning of a new campaign to raise a further 1million to enable the pavilion to re-open as a world-class centre for the arts.

"To this end, the De La Warr Pavilion needs the support of its increasing number of Friends and will shortly announce new ways in which individuals can contribute towards the future of this great building."

Trusts, foundations and individuals who have donated to the building project so far include the Foyle Foundation, the Headley Trust, Ibstock Cory Environmental Trust, the Manifold Trust and the President of the United Arab Emirates.

The building works are continuing and the pavilion is on schedule to re-open in Summer 2005. By that time it will have been closed to the public for almost two years. Building work started in May after months of delays over construction contracts.

The work is being carried out by Hove-based Heasman Spicer, whose projects have included Brighton Dome and the Barbican Theatre.

A pictorial timeline exhibition of the building works is available to view at the DLWP: Off-Site office at Marina and will be updated regularly.