SEAFRONT VISION

Over 50 representatives from a cross-section of the community have been invited to the town hall to discuss the new look.

Rother District Council s Regeneration and Tourism Committee appointed Tim Gale Landscape Architects (TGLA) to produce designs for landscaping of the whole seafront from Galley Hill to the end of West Parade. These will be used as a starting point for Monday s discussions.

Nigel Ramshaw, tourism development officer said: Invitations gone out to 50 representatives of youth groups, schools, colleges, Bexhill Association of Citizens, Help the Aged, traders, businesses, councillors and officers.

What is being presented are the proposals of the landscape artist that won him the contract.

We are now seeking to work with interested parties in order to gain ideas from all elements of the community.

It is a starting point from which to develop the final design.

The landscaping will include surfacing of the promenade, walls, grassed areas in keeping with the art deco style of the De La Warr Pavilion and the seafront itself.

The project brief was a study of the town s motor racing heritage.

The final scheme will include stylish lights and a possible culture trail with elements of public art.

Funding has yet to be sought once the final landscaping has been agreed and costings made. But there are several sources of funding, said Mr Ramshaw, either through Interegg, the Lottery and SEEDA.