West St Leonards campaigners submit their own proposals for the area

The joint submission by the West St Leonards Forum, Save our Bathing Site (SOBS) and West Marina Org aims to turn the area into a ‘prime seafront location for leisure and recreation’.

The proposal was submitted to Hastings Borough Council at the end of last week.

In a letter to the council, Virginia Vilela from the West St Leonards Forum, said the submission includes ‘meantime’ activities, environmental upgrades, and sign posting to revive local confidence, expand commercial activity and increase visitor numbers.

In the short time, the groups say they are proposing more facilities on the seafront, including changing screens, information boards and signposting, as well as housekeeping, such as paint, to improve the look of some of the Bexhill Road shops close to the site.

They also proposed a ‘pop-up’ pool or performance space with the aim of drawing people back to the area as a tourist destination.

The groups also said they are preparing a set of detailed projects for permanent development on the various sites within the area.

The joint proposal has been drawn up from previous ideas for the bathing pool site made over the years.

On behalf of West St Leonards Forum, SOBS and West Marina Org, Bryan Fisher said “Our joint proposal appears to be the only project related to our end of the borough, an area that has been neglected in so many ways over the years.

“This exciting proposal clearly demonstrates that the three local community organisations can work together to produce a viable plan that offers significant improvements to our community and beyond.

“I urge all those interested in regenerating our area to contact members of the Town Deal Board and show your support.”