Deadline set to decide future of empty former Azur seafront venue in St Leonards

Marina Pavilion, where Azur was based, is available via agents Dyer & Hobbis and Fleurets.

Economic development company Sea Change Sussex said it is inviting interest and offering viewings to businesses.

The venue went back on the market in the summer following extensive repair work.

A Sea Change Sussex spokesperson said power has been restored after a long-running electricity supply problem stemming from outside the building.

The spokesperson said: “Some parties that previously indicated serious interest in the property have dropped out as they’ve since found premises elsewhere because of all the delays caused by the repair works.

“On a more positive note, interest from new parties has been encouraging and several are carrying our repeat viewing with their advisors, which Sea Change Sussex is encouraging to ensure it receives carefully-considered offers based on a full understanding of the property.

“The company continues to welcome enquiries through its agents. It has now made a call for proposals from those interested, with a response deadline of September 23, and is looking forward to seeing what offers are put forward.”

Readers on the Observer's Facebook page commented on what the building should become.

One suggested a new McDonald's branch. Another said: “Love to see a Bistrot Pierre on that spot; the one at Eastbourne has spectacular views and this has great potential but needs a quality outlet.”

Another said: “Turn it into a Nando’s or something with free parking for customers in the car park next to it.”

A sports centre, gym and pool was suggested.

However, others branded the building an 'eyesore,' with one reader saying it should be 'torn down'.

One said: “Demolish the carbuncle.” Another said: “Tear it down and build an ice rink.”

Azur opened in Marina Pavilion in 2008 and incorporated Teddy's Cocktail Bar and Grill but ceased trading in January 2024.

A question mark hung over the venue’s future in the last year before it shut its doors in 2024 due to a ‘long-running dispute’ between the company managing it, Azur Events Limited, and the leasehold owner Sea Change Sussex.

Sea Change then brought forward a winding-up order.

The move left Azur’s future in doubt, with the fate of more than 45 functions for 2023/24 hanging in the balance. An out-of-court settlement was later reached between both parties.

In June 2024 Sea Change said 11 potential operators expressed interest in taking over the running of the venue following Azur’s closure.

However, Sea Change Sussex said it had to withdraw the property from the market when it became apparent that communal services in the wider Marina complex – retained by Hastings Borough Council – were unsafe and the timescales for repairs were uncertain.

The company said it has since worked with the council and UK Power Networks, installing a new mains power supply to service the Marina Pavilion and neighbouring properties, as well as rectifying problems with the shared drainage and fire escape.