This morning (Monday 19th July 2021) the Lead Member for Transport of East Sussex County Council, Cllr Clare Dowling, agreed to the revised plans for the pedestrianisation of Bolton Road, as a result of the petition from Bolton Road traders, supported by Your Eastbourne BID and the Eastbourne unLtd Chamber of Commerce.
Officers presented a new proposal at the meeting, which has resulted in the pedestrianisation being extended and ensuring that the popular cafes at Urban Ground and Deja Vu can take advantage of the new pedestrianisation.
Commenting, Luke Johnson from Your Eastbourne BID said, “We welcome the investment to the town centre which will see much needed improvements into the pedestrian precinct from Bankers Corner to Blacks. Just last week, Boris Johnson stated that alfresco dining must be supported by the government to enable the future use of our high streets. We are delighted that East Sussex County Council have listened to our calls and revised their plans for the road to extend the pedestrianisation to include more of Bolton Road.”
Andy Spirou from Urban Ground said, “I want to say a huge thank you to the hundreds of residents and businesses who supported our campaign to increase the pedestrianisation of Bolton Road. Whilst we didn’t get a full extension, the additional provision will support alfresco dining in the street and create a better atmosphere for our visitors, guests and residents. Whilst minor adjustment works may now be made, I am looking forward to seeing the changes in situ and know it will bring a real benefit to our town.”
Councillor Stephen Holt stated, “I was delighted that officers presented a realistic compromise that supports alfresco dining for our established businesses. I also made clear that I supported the calls of the disability groups to ensure that there was substantial provision of dropped kerbs for new disabled parking bays. Officers reported that they had met with disability groups and were working to address the issues raised.”
View meeting: https://eastsussex.public-i.tv/core/portal/webcast_interactive/585863