Date announced for reopening of Bexhill's Colonnade following major refurbishment and repair work

Rother District Council said 'significant progress' was being made on refurbishment and repair work and was now 'entering its final stages'.

Contractors began removing site hoarding from Friday (March 27) and will carry out the last minor external repairs and complete interior works.

A council spokesperson said: “While the majority of the site will reopen, the upper deck will remain fenced off until the final elements are completed, with all works expected to finish by mid‑April.

“To welcome residents and visitors back to the seafront space, the council is planning to start reopening the site from Thursday, April 2, coinciding with the Easter school holidays, with a full reopening planned for the summer.

“A selection of food trucks and a small number of kiosk traders will be on site offering food and beverages, helping to bring activity and atmosphere back to the Colonnade ahead of full summer trading. The council is also working with local charities and community partners to deliver family‑friendly activities throughout the Easter holiday period.

“Alongside the physical restoration, the council is progressing its plans for the building’s longer‑term future. Marketing of the commercial spaces has already attracted strong interest, and the council anticipates having regular traders in place for the summer season.

“We’re pleased to see the Colonnade taking shape after months of meticulous work. We look forward to the site coming back into public use over the Easter period, followed by a planned full reopening in the summer. Meanwhile, we continue our marketing plans to secure a vibrant and sustainable long‑term use for this important heritage asset.”

Refurbishment and repair works on the Colonnade started in October 2025.

The ongoing work comes after traders at the Colonnade said they were ordered by Rother District Council to close by the end of September 2025 due to the planned refurbishment.

The shops affected included Eleven@Colonnade, The Pebble People, Rachel's Glass Store, Hughies Beach Café and The Bag Lady.

A petition calling for the council to guarantee a 'right to return' for traders was signed by more than 4,500 people.

It was set up by Charlotte Arundell and Sonia Valentini.

Rother District Council appointed DBR Southern to carry out the repairs and refurbishment works on the Colonnade due to water ingress issues.

The Colonnade was built in 1911 to commemorate the Coronation of George V. It was given Grade II listed status in 2008.