Latest on ESK redevelopment plans

Planners have made a decision on the redevelopment of the ESK site in Eastbourne.

Bob Beevis, the owner of the no frills superstore in Courtland Road, put in a planning application last year to demolish the existing warehouses and build 135 new homes on the site.

Outline planning permission has now been granted for the redevelopment by council officers using delegated powers.

The scheme is for 102 flats. Twenty five would be one bedroom units and the remaining 77 being two bedroom apartments.

The remainder of the units – 34 in total – would be houses. Seven of those will be two storey two bedroom units and 27 will be three storey three bedroom houses.

In addition, a total of 153 car parking spaces would be provided.

Three new two way access points would be provided all taken from Courtlands Road.

A spokesperson in Eastbourne council’s planning department said, “The warehouse stock on the site is dated and has been an established and popular retail destination with associated employment for several decades.

“However, in line with national trends it is accepted that large retailers are struggling in the current economic climate and continued provision of a retail outlet on the development will provide employment.

“The proposal represents the redevelopment of a brownfield site that would provide an essential contribution towards Eastbourne meeting its targets for housing provision, particularly in context of the severe shortage of housing land supply within the borough.

“While the development would introduce a more intensive form of residential development into the neighbourhood, it is considered that by focussing bulkier elements to the west of the site, this can be achieved in a responsible way that would minimise harmful impact upon environmental and residential amenities and the overall character of the neighbourhood.

“The Environment Agency has objected to the application on the grounds of flood risk, particularly due to the presence of ground floor level accommodation. It is considered that the objections raised can be, and will need to be, addressed at the design stage, which would form part of a reserved matters application.”

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