Crowds flock to Bexhill Next Wave opening

The early morning shoppers missed the rush!

Thousands of excited visitors flocked to our Next Wave project last weekend.

 

The grade II listed colonnade ebuilding opened its doors for the first time in over a year following its restoration and extension as part of HTA's 'Next Wave' seafront regeneration project.

The Colonnade now has an inside area for a large restaurant as well as seven kiosk units for retail in its wings.

A collective of arts-based businesses called 'Made by the Sea' has taken on the restaurant area until Christmas. After which, the new restaurant business will move in; this is in order to commence the fit out prior to opening in time for the summer season.

Doors opened early to deal with the enthusiastic stream of visitors, many of whom were in town to visit the De La Warr Pavilion's Warhol Is Here exhibition.

Rother District Council leader Cllr Carl Maynard said:  "It was hugely satisfying to see such a successful opening. Residents and visitors alike were making positive comments throughout the weekend.  We think this is the start of something very positive for Bexhill and things will continue to get better when the seafront is completely finished."

Josephine Doolan of Made by the Sea said: "The opening weekend surpassed our expectations. We are so grateful for all the support the people of Bexhill gave us and we look forward to seeing even more shoppers this weekend."

Made by the Sea is open every weekend from 11am to 4pm.

And many vistoirs took some time to walk along the Next Wave promenade and take in the views and enjoy the planting as the colours refelct the autumnal chill in the air.

With a bit of luck the new dancing fountains will be open next week!