Last year, the Conservative Government awarded Eastbourne £20 million to invest in the town’s future, representing a real opportunity to make lasting improvements for residents across Eastbourne.
This funding was secured through the hard work of former MP Caroline Ansell, who successfully fought for it as part of last year’s budget. The money is specifically earmarked for projects that will boost work opportunities, skills training, regeneration, and transport connections, with the ultimate goal of raising living standards and tackling deprivation.
The funding will be managed through the new Eastbourne Neighbourhood Board, on which Cllr Penny di Cara serves alongside representatives from across the community. While some have questioned whether an unelected board is the right approach, the thinking behind this model is that involving a wider range of voices, from businesses to charities to community groups, could deliver better results than traditional council spending alone.
What matters most is that residents have a genuine say in how this money is used. Ward-based workshops are being launched throughout October, giving people in every part of Eastbourne the chance to shape both immediate improvements and longer-term plans.
As a first step, each of Eastbourne’s nine wards will receive £10,000 to spend on local priorities. This could include projects such as community notice boards, planters, handrails, or new seating areas. The key principle is that these decisions will be made by local people.
Cllr di Cara is particularly keen to hear what investments residents believe would make the biggest difference to the town. Whether small practical improvements or ideas for larger projects in the future, local input will directly influence how millions of pounds are spent.
Details of the workshop dates and venues are being finalised and will be published shortly. In the meantime, residents who would like to get involved or share their ideas are encouraged to get in touch.
