Lewes District Council (LDC) has announced that two new benches celebrating Newhaven’s heritage and landscape have been installed at Fort Road Recreation Ground.

LDC said the unique benches sit where a £3.4 million transformation is nearing completion.

They were created following a competition run by LDC in partnership with the community-focused arts organisation Hospitable Environment.

The council said Alfie Sinclair, a Year 9 student at Seahaven Academy, and Newhaven artists Diets Verschuren and Caroline Marsland, had their designs chosen from almost 100 entries.

Alfie Sinclair at one of the new benches. Photo: LDC

placeholder image — Alfie Sinclair at one of the new benches. Photo: LDC

Councillor Johnny Denis, Cabinet Member for Arts, Culture, Tourism and Leisure, said: “I love these benches! With wonderful designs by Alfie, Diets and Caroline, they are another visible sign of the transformation taking place at Fort Road Recreation Ground. What makes them particularly special is that they were shaped by local people, creating features that reflect Newhaven's identity and will be enjoyed by residents and visitors for many years to come.”

The council said the benches provide a place where people can relax in the new community garden. LDC added that the designs reflect Newhaven’s maritime history, as well as its wildlife and coastal setting.

The regeneration of the recreation ground is being funded by the UK Government and Lewes District Council.

An LDC spokesperson said: “Significant improvements completed so far include the refurbishment of Shakespeare Hall, upgrades to the cricket pavilion, a new artificial cricket wicket, modernised public toilets and extensive landscaping across the site. Work is progressing on additional amenities that will further enhance the park including a new outdoor gym and children's play area. Visitors can also make use of a new community noticeboard, which will provide information about local events as well as updates on plans for a new café and community space.”