A Town to be Proud of

Hastings has to regenerate but it will not be at the expense of the special character and charm of the town. Labour will continue with its programme of conservation and restoration that has been so important for key buildings along the seafront, in the town centre and St Leonards. We are especially committed to the restoration of the Regency Arcade and the Crescent at Pelham and believe this must be an integral part of any substantial redevelopment of that area.

Labour’s decorative lighting scheme has brought a modern, tasteful dimension to the tradition of seaside lights. Now the pier, the White Rock Theatre and George Street are lit up too.

Labour has committed the council to a percentage for art which means any new major building scheme in the town has to proved an additional 1% of the money spent for public art.

Labour knows our town has a rich tradition of art and culture and local history. We are committed to making these even more prominent. The Labour council enabled the South coast Artists group to take over the foyer of St Mary in the Castle. The annual Coastal Currents arts festival was started under Labour and we will ensure it continues and develops. Labour will also work to ensure there are more artists’ workspaces for local art to flourish.

Labour promises to:

To develop a financially sustainable long-term future for St Mary in the Castle

To ensure Pelham Crescent and Arcade are restored

To create a proper Gateway feature for the Old Town
To hold a competition for a major public art feature in the Town Centre.