Two major projects in Bexhill have been given additional funding to boost their environmental sustainability.

Rother District Council has approved almost £400,000 for renewable energy and efficiency, and other sustainability measures for the new Sidley Hub already under construction and for the planned revamp of the De La Warr Pavilion.

Designed to help the district with its net-zero targets, the funding is another step forward for the multi-million-pound projects. The money will allow for green initiatives including solar panels, air source heat pumps, and sustainable operational practices.

Cllr Kathryn Field, portfolio holder for environment at Rother District Council, said: “These projects are so important for our local communities and our district. They will support our economy, increase skills, help vulnerable people and families, and deliver more opportunities for residents and visitors to enjoy art and culture.

“But it’s also important for us to help protect our environment and reduce our carbon footprint – so I’m delighted this funding has been approved to increase environmental sustainability.”

Jay Carroll, Chair of Heart of Sidley, said: “The Sidley community has driven the Sidley Hub project from day one, and this investment ensures our dream is sustainable in every sense of the word. A greener building means a healthier future and more affordable opportunities for every resident and group in Sidley.”

Stewart Drew, Director & CEO of De La Warr Pavilion Charitable Trust, said: “This funding means that, for the first time, we can install solar panels on the De La Warr Pavilion’s hidden south-facing roof. This will help us move closer to our net zero goals, reduce the building’s environmental impact, and lower operational costs, ensuring we are more financially resilient.”

The Grade I listed De La Warr Pavilion is undergoing a major, multi-phase renovation backed by significant government funding to conserve the building and improve its facilities. The funding will go towards the Icon for Everyone project, which will restore and reimagine the modernist landmark – creating new learning and community spaces, refurbishing the auditorium and galleries, improving accessibility, supporting sustainability, and securing the Pavilion’s purpose as a creative and cultural home for all.

In partnership with the De La Warr project, government funding has also been provided for a new £3.4 million state-of-the-art Community Hub at Sidley recreation ground in Bexhill. This vital project is community-led by the Heart of Sidley (HOS) partnership, which has spearheaded a ten-year journey of extensive community consultation and engagement. The new Sidley Hub is a significant part of the wider £19.3 million Levelling Up Fund project for cultural-led regeneration.

Identified as an area of need, the new Hub will deliver a massive boost for the Sidley community, providing a fully accessible, inclusive, and vibrant multi-purpose facility. It will include:

• A café and kitchen space.
• First-class sports changing facilities.
• Fully accessible toilets, including a crucial Changing Places facility (addressing a lack of public facilities).
• Function rooms for hire by local groups, voluntary and community partners.
• On-site car parking, including disabled and EV spaces.

The Sidley Hub is designed to support active, creative, and healthy lifestyles, offering opportunities for further learning and skills development, and will become a true cornerstone of community life.

Ends

Published: 26th November 2025