Councillors address concerns raised by Colonnade traders  

ROTHER District Council members have passed a motion addressing the concerns raised by the Colonnade shop tenants in relation to the planned refurbishment works.

The council is undertaking a series of essential repairs to the Grade II listed building in the autumn due to issues with water ingress.

At the Full Council meeting on Monday night (July 14), councillors debated a motion submitted by Councillor Christine Bayliss.

Councillors unanimously agreed to guarantee that the authority will consider the good relationships and excellent track record of existing tenants when new applications for the refurbished shops are assessed.

In passing the motion, it was also agreed that all council leases offer fair terms and that the council is a supportive landlord and partner to small businesses.

It was also confirmed that the refurbishment and repair plans have been communicated to the Colonnade tenants and wider community.

Cllr Bayliss, deputy leader and portfolio holder for regeneration and economic development at Rother District Council, said: “I am pleased we have been able to reach this decision to consider our good relationship and the excellent track record of the existing tenants when marketing the Colonnade leases once the refurbishment work is completed.

“A clear policy that the council must demonstrate it is getting best value for the taxpayer exists and it is important to note any variation to this needed to go to Full Council to be discussed and agreed by all councillors.

“We now look forward to the work starting in the autumn and seeing the new upgraded units next spring.”

The motion vote followed a debate of a petition submitted by the Colonnade traders which called for a guaranteed right to return once renovations are complete and fair terms for the current traders’ reinstatement.

The refurbishment project is due to commence in October 2025 and be completed by spring 2026.

Published: 16th July 2025

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