Campaign to save Eastbourne burger van ends in success

Sharon Potter has run her burger van outside B&Q in Hampden Retail Park since 1991.

She says she was given two months notice to leave. This is because Costa Coffee is coming to the site and needs the two car parking spaces she occupies.

A petition and Facebook page were set up by Claire Carpenter to support Sharon: https://www.facebook.com/SAVE-Our-Shazza-103203912047201

Councillor Tom Liddiard said, “Sharon has been an integral park of our community and the Hampden Park Industrial Estate for as long as many of us can remember. A five star food hygiene rating to match her five star customer service.”

MP for Eastbourne Caroline Ansell said, “Sharon is known and loved in Hampden Park, and beyond, and she should be part of the retail park’s future. New development in this retail park is important but my view is that both can co-exist as they are not in competition with each other.”

Cllr Amanda Morris has now revealed that Sharon’s space is safe.

In a Facebook comment, Cllr Morris said, “I spoke to my fellow councillors today regarding this and we were all very upset about this so after a few phone calls I can confirm Sharon will be allowed to stay.

“Eastbourne Borough Council will make sure she has her own pitch when the site is redeveloped.”

A spokesperson for Eastbourne Borough Council said, “We have been liaising with Sharon today (Wednesday, July 14) and assured her that her business will be accommodated in the new Hampden Park Retail Scheme. As well as providing space, we will be working with Sharon to offer improved facilities for the running of her food stall.

“As her concession lease at the retail park is handled by a third party, we have not had any direct contact with Sharon until now and it was an oversight that she was not provided with this offer earlier.

“We look forward to the continuation of her business alongside the opening of the Costa as part of the exciting improvements coming to Hampden Park Retail Park.”

In response to the news, Sharon thanked Claire and the public for the support. In the video, posted by Claire Carpenter on the Facebook campaign page, Sharon said, “Without this lady and without the public I would not be here so it’s thanks to you guys and I love you all.”