Bexhill seafront fountain plans move a step closer, says partnership
Plans to bring back a fountain to the front lawns of the De La Warr Pavilion in Bexhill have moved a step closer, it has been announced.
Rother District Council said a partnership between itself, Bexhill Town Council and Bexhill Neighbourhood Board has moved the scheme forward to the procurement stage, aiming to identify a suitable contractor to deliver the project.
A spokesperson said: “The fountain replacement was identified as the top priority through community engagement carried out by Bexhill Neighbourhood Board and forms a key part of its four-year Regeneration Investment Plan, funded through the Government's Pride in Place programme.
“Under the partnership, Rother District Council, as landowner and accountable body for the funding, will lead the procurement process, and Bexhill Town Council has agreed in principle to take on future maintenance responsibilities, subject to lease and construction quality arrangements.”
Although repair options for the former fountain were explored, replacement is the most viable and cost-effective long-term solution, the district council said.
Speaking on behalf of the partners, Abi Newbury, chair of Bexhill Neighbourhood Board, said: “I am delighted that this three-way partnership is helping turn a long-held community ambition into a project with real momentum.
“Local people have told us how much the fountain matters to them, and by working together we can bring this much-loved feature back to life as a welcoming, family-friendly seafront space for residents, businesses and visitors to enjoy.
“There is still work to do before delivery can begin, but reaching the procurement stage is a genuinely positive step for Bexhill.”
Construction is currently expected to begin following the design phase in 2027, if all approvals and agreements are secured.
The fountain was closed in 2019 after suffering a series of breakdowns over two years that stopped it from running.
The original water fountain was installed as part of Bexhill’s seafront regeneration project in 2011, which saw improvements made to the area surrounding the Colonnade and the De La Warr Pavilion.