Plans for £11m South Downs cultural centre given go-ahead

It is estimated the cultural centre will attract up to 100,000 visitors annually

Plans for a new culture, arts and education hub on the South Downs in East Sussex have been approved.

The approval for Black Robin Farm near Eastbourne is subject to conditions, including securing an expanded bus service and a new public footpath.

The Eastbourne Borough Council (EBC) plans include business studios, event space and a new gallery building.

EBC leader Stephen Holt said: "This will allow the local communities to celebrate Eastbourne's identity."

It is estimated the cultural centre, which will be operated by Towner Eastbourne, will attract up to 100,000 visitors annually and work is expected to begin on the site this year.

A new gallery building is included in the plans

The South Downs National Park Authority's interim director of planning, Mike Hughes, said: "This new hub will provide the public with extensive opportunities to connect with the culture, history, geography, ecology and land management practices of the area."

Towner Eastbourne's CEO and director Joe Hill added: "Our vision is to change lives through high quality creative and cultural experiences that raise aspirations, change career directions and improve life outcomes as well as skills and training that enables young people to pursue careers in the creative industries, tourism and leisure."

The project was due to be set up with a £11m cash injection after the council received £19.8m from the government's levelling-up fund.

Follow BBC South East on Facebook, on X, and on Instagram. Send your story ideas to [e-mail].