Eastbourne bandstand to be closed off ahead of Storm Austen as 70mph wind gusts predicted

With the Met Office forecasting winds of between 50 and 60mph on Friday (23 October), and gusts up to 70mph possible in some coastal locations, the decision has been taken to close the Bandstand and remove sections of hoarding that may be vulnerable in storm conditions, Eastbourne Borough Council said.

In a statement today (Tuesday) the spokesperson said: “The combination of high winds and heavy rain is expected to make the seafront potentially hazardous on Friday. Two high tides, at 9.46am and 10.05pm, are also expected to generate large waves that could break over pedestrian areas along the seafront.

“Sections of the promenade will therefore also be closed.

“The safety of residents, visitors and our staff must always come first. We would urge everyone to take the weather warnings seriously and avoid putting themselves at unnecessary risk.

“The Bandstand will be reopened as soon as possible, the spokesperson added.”