PLANS to bring a fountain back to the lawns in front of Bexhill’s De La Warr Pavilion have reached a major milestone, with the search for a contractor getting underway.
The long-awaited project is moving forward through a partnership between Bexhill Neighbourhood Board, Bexhill-on-Sea Town Council and Rother District Council.
Replacing the fountain was identified as the top priority during community engagement carried out by the neighbourhood board. It is a key part of the board’s four-year Regeneration Investment Plan, funded through the Government’s Pride in Place programme.
Options for repairing the former fountain were explored, but replacement was found to be the most viable and cost-effective long-term solution.
Rother District Council, which owns the land and is accountable for the funding, will lead the process of finding a contractor. Bexhill-on-Sea Town Council has agreed in principle to take responsibility for future maintenance, subject to lease and construction quality arrangements.
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.”
Construction is currently expected to begin after the design phase in 2027, provided the necessary approvals and agreements are secured.
