Levitt Bernstein, working alongside TrioPlus Sport & Leisure, has secured planning permission for a £44m transformational scheme to establish Devonshire Park as a premier conference and cultural destination, which includes major improvements to the international tennis facilities. Permission was given to refurbish and enhance Eastbourne Borough Council’s Grade II and Grade II* listed buildings: Devonshire Park Theatre, Congress Theatre and the Winter Garden. Upgrading both the exterior and interior of each of the theatres will reinstate them back to their former glory, but with new 21st century technology. The design of each building strikes a balance between preserving their heritage whilst revitalising them to provide better facilities for performers and audiences alike. A new Welcome Building providing conference halls, break out and hospitality areas and a cafe with views across the lawns, was also given the go ahead. With two storeys above ground and two below, it will be a new hub for Devonshire Park and replace the outdated conference facilities currently on the site. The building will be fully glazed to sensitively respond to the neighbouring listed theatres and allow views through to the rest of the park. It will also have a fully accessible entrance to the Congress Theatre, including lifts to every floor. A landscape masterplan was also approved, including a new plaza in front of the
theatres to reinforce the parkland setting and strengthen Devonshire Park’s connection to the seafront and town centre. Gary Tidmarsh, Chairman at Levitt Bernstein: “We are delighted that planning approval and listed building consent was granted last night. We believe these proposals will deliver an exemplary visitor and cultural attraction which will enhance the role Devonshire Park plays in the lives of the people of Eastbourne and its many
visitors. ” Construction is anticipated to start in 2016 and the project will be completed in 2020.