There is a high availability of affordable commercial
property in Eastbourne and nearby Polegate, where a planned 700 new homes
promise continued economic growth. Development around Sovereign Harbour Marina,
Britain’s largest composite marina, has created more than 3000 new luxury homes
over the past 10 years and future plans include the construction of an
innovation mall for small businesses and start-ups. The Eastbourne business
community is well connected and mutually supportive. The Chamber of Commerce is
strong with around 600 members and holds many networking events to facilitate
local B2B links. There are many business events for local entrepreneurs to promote
their goods and services and a healthy ‘buy local’ ethic. Large revenues are
generated through tourism and conference tourism with reports showing a £365
million revenue from visitors in 2010, 3.1% greater than 2009 and estimated to
support 7,160 jobs. The council’s blueprint for future development in the town
centre maps out a strategy for further boosting these numbers by attracting
even more residents, shoppers and visitors to the town.
Tourism
The seafront at Eastbourne consists almost entirely of Victorian hotels.
Along with its pier and bandstand, this serves to preserve the front in a
somewhat timeless manner. The Duke of Devonshire, retains the rights to the
seafront buildings and does not allow them to be developed into shops. A
stretch of 4 miles (6.4 km) of shingle beach stretches from Sovereign
Harbour in the east to Beachy Head in the west. In a 1998 survey 56% of
visitors said that the beach and seafront was one of Eastbourne best features,
although 10% listed the pebbled beach as a dislike. Other recreation facilities
include two swimming pools, three fitness centres and other smaller sports
clubs including scuba diving. A children's adventure park
