Delays drag on in Devonshire Square

The revamped square was due to open last Monday but a series of hitches means traffic will continue to be diverted until the latest estimate of Monday December 1.

The entire project, which will see both the road and footway resurfaced to create a part-pedestrianised 'piazza-style' walkway, is now a fortnight behind schedule, with an anticipated completion date of December 14. But the new lighting scheme will not be in place until the new year.

An East Sussex County Council spokesman explained: "The works have taken longer because of a number of unforeseeable circumstances. Firstly the surfacing across the entrance to the square collapsed revealing a large hole, this had to be filled with foamed concrete before the road surface could be reinstated.

"Also numerous underground obstructions have been encountered which have slowed progress of the works. These included unmarked public utilities services that had to be dug by hand rather than machine to avoid causing any damage."

"There has been a delay by the manufacturer of the new ornamental lighting columns and they are now not expected to be delivered until the new year.

"The columns are being cast specially to match the ones in Town Hall Square. The cabling and dummy posts are being installed now to minimise excavation of the new footway when the new columns are installed."

Traders around Devonshire Square say the works have cost them business and are not happy about the delays.

Sarah Melbert, manager at Walker's bar, said: "It's been an absolute nightmare. We're right in the thick of it so we've lost virtually all our passing trade because people don't know we're open. We know it's going to be worth it in the end because we'll have more space out front and a more pleasant atmosphere, but the delays are very frustrating.

"It's been noisy and dirty and the builders have been a bit of a nuisance, shouting comments at our customers like builders do.

"We've been assured the road will open no later than December 1 and that our pavement will be a priority. We're trying to stay positive about things."

Town Centre and Tourism Action Group chairman Rodney Gadsden said he was concerned what effect the closed square could have on tonight's Christmas lights switch-on, when thousands are expected to flock to Devonshire Road.

The county council spokesman added: "Whilst we recognise the disruption and additional inconvenience to the public and traders of keeping the square closed for another two weeks, this is essential for the safe construction of the works. Without traffic running through the site, the contractor will be able to work in many areas at once to try and regain the lost time.

"Following our concerns over progress, the contractor has also undertaken to increase his efforts to complete the works without further delay.

"As a matter of priority, the paving works along the western side of the square, adjacent to the shops and businesses, are to be completed as soon as possible to minimise disruption in the run up to Christmas. For public safety the existing street lighting will remain in operation until the new lights are installed.

"We are very grateful for the cooperation and understanding from the public and local businesses for the construction of this scheme, which is intended to help regenerate this area of Bexhill. We apologise for the additional inconvenience caused by the delays to these works and thank those affected for their continued patience."