Chris Ward MP welcomes progress on long-awaited Peacehaven Morrisons plans
Revised Peacehaven Morrison’s plan welcomed - but people want to see it built
Chris Ward, MP for Brighton Kemptown and Peacehaven, has welcomed the publication of Morrisons' updated proposals for its long-awaited redevelopment of the Meridian Centre in Peacehaven, describing it as "an important step forward after years of delays”.
The updated plans include a new 25,000 sq ft Morrisons supermarket, a new public square, improved public spaces, parking, electric vehicle charging points and solar panels. Importantly, the revised proposals also retain both Peacehaven Library and Community House, recognising their importance to the local community.
Chris Ward MP said:
"This is welcome progress and a positive step towards delivering what the people of Peacehaven have been promised for far too long.
"Residents have waited patiently for years while this site remained undeveloped. Throughout that time I've worked closely with local residents, councillors and community groups to keep the pressure on Morrisons, including meeting directly with the company and launching my 'Build it or Sell it’ campaign.
"I'm pleased to see revised plans now in the public domain, and particularly welcome the decision to retain both the Library and Community House alongside the new supermarket and wider regeneration of the town centre.
"A new supermarket will improve local choice, reduce the need for people to travel elsewhere to do their shopping and help create new jobs and investment for our town. The wider improvements to the Meridian Centre also have the potential to give Peacehaven the thriving town centre it deserves."
Mr Ward said he would continue to engage with Morrisons, local councils and residents as the planning process moves forward.
He added: "While today's announcement is encouraging, the community has understandably become cautious after previous delays. What people now want to see is delivery.
"I'll continue working with everyone involved to ensure momentum is maintained and that these plans become a reality. Peacehaven deserves to see this long-promised investment finally delivered."
Residents can now view the updated proposals and submit comments as part of the planning consultation at https://planningpa.lewes-eastbourne.gov.uk/online-applications/applicationDetails.do?activeTab=summary&keyVal=ROD7O8JDMWB00
The planning application can also be viewed at https://morrisonspeacehaven.co.uk/