Eastbourne: Public consultation to turn farm into cultural centre

Black Robin Farm, which overlooks Eastbourne in the South Downs National Park, would host public artworks, creative courses as well as food and drinks.

The planning application has been submitted and people are now able to offer their feedback. It is hoped the decision will be made on the proposals by spring next year.

The site, just off Beachy Head Road, would have business studios, refectory and event space and a new gallery building.

Looking across the farm towards the ocean (Image: Feilden Fowles)

Naomi Langford, major projects officer for the South Downs National Park Authority, said: “This is a significant and innovative proposal in the landscape.

“It’s really important that people comment on the application via the National Park Authority’s public access system, rather than via online petitions, other websites or comments on social media otherwise there’s no guarantee we will receive their comments.”

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The proposals include new pedestrian access and works to the existing vehicle access, associated infrastructure, vehicle parking, and landscaping.

The proposed hub would be operated by Towner Eastbourne.

People now have until midnight on Tuesday, November 21 to submit their comments.

Eastbourne Borough Council is paying for the project after it secured a £19.8 million grant from the government’s levelling up fund.

Visit the Authority's website for more details.