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South Downs: Plans for £11m cultural centre to be considered

Feiled Fowles Plans for Black Robin FarmFeiled Fowles
Plans for the culture and education centre will be considered by the South Downs National Park Authority

Plans to create a cultural centre at a former dairy farm in the South Downs are to be considered by a national park authority.

Black Robin Farm, near Eastbourne, could be transformed into an "eastern gateway" to the South Downs.

The centre will connect the landmarks of Beachy Head, Birling Gap, Seven Sisters and Cuckmere Haven.

Eastbourne Borough Council leader Stephen Holt said it could be "momentous" for Eastbourne.

The centre will show the cultural heritage of the area through public artworks, exhibitions, creative activities and courses. There will also be artist events as well as locally sourced food and drink.

The project will be set up with £11m cash injection after the council received £19.8m from the government's levelling up fund.

Feilden Fowles Plans for Black Robin FarmFeilden Fowles
Towner Eastbourne is to provide artists opportunities through commissions, residencies, showcasing and workspace

Mr Holt said: "The government quickly identified the incredible opportunities within the council's bid and so to now see that ambition translated into stunning images of what could follow, is hugely exciting for me.

"I feel like we are within touching distance of something really momentous for Eastbourne."

The planning application is to be considered by South Downs National Park Authority.

Feilden Fowles Plans for Black Robin FarmFeilden Fowles
The former dairy farm could become the eastern gateway to the South Downs National Park
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