Eastbourne, a picturesque seaside town on England’s south coast, is undergoing a remarkable transformation that promises to position it as a model of modern urban development. At the heart of this transformation lies the historic Victorian Pump House on Bedfordwell Road, a site poised to accommodate 100 new residences. This ambitious endeavour, generously supported by government funding, not only addresses the critical housing shortfall in the region but also revitalises a site rich in historical significance.
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The Victorian Pump House, a Grade II listed structure and a familiar sight to travellers arriving at Eastbourne Railway Station, is central to this project. Constructed in 1883, the Pump House was the brainchild of architect Henry Currey, who designed it for the Duke of Devonshire’s estate. The building, comprising the former engine house and adjacent boiler house, is a striking example of Victorian industrial architecture. The project’s commitment to preserving this heritage is evident in the planned conversion of the building into 20 bespoke apartments, ensuring that Eastbourne’s architectural legacy is honoured even as the town looks to the future.
The driving force behind this development is Eastbourne Borough Council, which secured £7.622 million from Homes England, supplemented by an additional £2.2 million from the government. Councillor Stephen Holt, the leader of the council, expressed his enthusiasm for the project, noting its potential to alleviate the housing crisis while providing high-quality, affordable homes for local residents. He remarked, “In an era where homelessness is a critical issue and temporary accommodation costs are unsustainable, this development represents a significant step forward for our community.”
The new development will offer a diverse mix of affordable and low-cost ownership homes, directly addressing the acute housing shortage in the area. Councillor Peter Diplock, cabinet member for housing, underscored the project’s significance, noting that few councils in the UK are actively building affordable homes. He acknowledged the challenges posed by the site’s previous industrial use and its proximity to the railway, describing it as a “tough nut to crack” due to the complexities and expenses associated with redeveloping brownfield sites.
Extensive remediation and decontamination efforts have been undertaken to prepare the site, given its industrial past. The project also includes specialist groundworks, drainage, and utility service relocations to ensure successful development. Sustainability is a cornerstone of the council’s vision, with the design incorporating features such as minimal car parking, extensive cycle storage, and a dedicated cycle lane. All new properties are designed to achieve an EPC A rating, featuring innovative technologies such as photovoltaics, mechanical ventilation with heat recovery (MVHR), and air source heat pumps.
The architectural vision for the development skilfully marries historical and contemporary elements. ECE, the architects leading the project, have selected red and buff brickwork to echo the Victorian Pump House, ensuring a harmonious integration of the new structures with the site’s historical context. This thoughtful approach not only preserves the site’s heritage but also enhances its character.
Beyond providing much-needed housing, this development aims to build a vibrant community. The inclusion of spaces designated for community use reflects a broader ambition to nurture social interaction and community spirit. This holistic approach positions the project as a potential blueprint for similar initiatives throughout the UK, demonstrating how sustainable development can coexist with heritage preservation and community building.
As Eastbourne embarks on this new chapter, the transformation of the Victorian Pump House site becomes a symbol of progress. It adeptly blends history with contemporary living and meets the pressing demand for affordable housing. Residents can anticipate a revitalised neighbourhood that pays homage to its storied past while confidently embracing future possibilities.
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