March 2011

Firstly my apologies for the time between blogs - but as you will see from this update, it has been all systems go at a manic speed since Christmas.

The Colonnade has now been excavated at the back and restoration will be starting shortly. Just for information this building is a 100 years old this year, so if you do visit the site please look at the construction of the original building which happened long before our modern construction practices and it still looks good. Residents are planning a celebration so we will keep you informed via the web site.

The rowing club has been proceeding in parallel and the form of this new building can now clearly be seen. The project doubles the footprint of the existing building and provides additional facilities for disabled rowers as well as additional female facilities.

The promenade has been open to the public since November but the severe weather at that time meant that we could not fully complete the works. English Landscapes are back on site completing the 'snagging list' and the finishing touches. Most of the finishing touches (painting of the walls, finishing of the paved areas the surfacing treatment etc) can only be completed when the weather is above freezing for several days – something this winter has denied us. However, as I write this today the weather is definitely hinting at Spring-time so things will be moving forward.

The shelters are now nearing completion. They are being predominantly manufactured off-site and will be lifted in this Spring. They are timber with additional seating and will a striking visual attraction to the West Promenade. It is a common question, so just to confirm – the shelters on East Parade are not affected.

Steve Benn (Coastal Officer) and his team will be working from the seafront this summer while the Colonnade is under construction. He is looking forward to his new accommodation – which includes a separate first aid area and new welfare facilities, but until it is ready he will be based on the promenade at Channel View East, near to the Sailing Club. 

Finally I bring some good news on the issue of drop kerbs. Working in conjunction with our partners at East Sussex County Council a further 2 drop kerb sections and build outs will be constructed on West Parade on both sides of the road so that all members of our community can cross safely (this is in addition to the new Clock Tower crossing). Works are due to commence this May.

Sorry for the length of this blog but hope that is covers any information you need, however, if I have missed something please use the feed-back function and your question will be answered by the team.