Eastbourne downland plan an opportunity to boost eco-tourism

Downland between Eastbourne and East Dean (Photo by Jon Rigby) SUS-170222-100906008

On Wednesday (July 15), Eastbourne Borough Council cabinet members approved the adoption of the Downland Whole Estate Plan (WEP) – a document laying out how the iconic area will be managed and maintained by the council over the next 25 years.

Cabinet also agreed to adopt a list of future projects for the downland, including changes to the Beachy Head Countryside Centre and the reuse of the currently redundant Black Robin Farm buildings.

Cllr Jonathan Dow, cabinet member for climate change, said: “We have a real opportunity here to start a project which could really put Eastbourne and the entrance to the South Downs National Park on a more global map, leading the way for eco-tourism.

“In the current climate of Covid-19 we need to have an offering that delivers the diversity required by a healthy local economy.

“We heard today that theatres might remain closed until next April, so we need the seafront, pier, carpet gardens. We need the theatres, restaurants pubs and clubs.

“And we need the eco-tourism to ensure we have the widest offering for our guests, visitors, holidaymakers and of course residents.

“What I would urge my colleagues to do is not look at this as a cost which is unaffordable, but as an investment in future proofing our town’s success.”

As part of the plans, the countryside centre would be used to signpost activities, promote the downland and support education and volunteering activities.

Alongside this, Black Robin Farm would become a place for people to learn about and engage with the Eastbourne Downland through workshops and courses.

Cottages there could also provide holiday accommodation with an eco-tourism focus, the council says.

Further work on this project will be subject to a future business case.

The council’s downland sits within the South Downs National Park and consists of about 3,000 acres of farmed land as well as 1,000 acres of open access downland.

The principles of the council’s Downland WEP were agreed in June 2019, followed by a public consultation earlier this year.

The South Downs National Park Authority is expected to consider whether to endorse the plan at a meeting in September.