A £3 million visitor centre has been granted planning permission by councillors at a town hall meeting yesterday (Wednesday 8 July).
Hastings Borough Council said: “Planning permission has been granted for a landmark new visitor centre at the West Hill Café site, marking a significant milestone in the delivery of the government-funded Hastings Town Deal project.
“Approved by Hastings Borough Council’s Planning Committee on Wednesday 8 July, the proposals will see the existing West Hill Café replaced with a modern visitor centre, café and restaurant.
“The development will improve the visitor experience while supporting the long-term conservation and sustainable future of one of Hastings’ most important historic landmarks.”
The council is putting in an extra £450,000 for two linked projects – £250,000 for essential works to the West Hill Lift engine room and a further £200,000 for work on Hastings Castle.
The council said: “The application was submitted by Troika Projects, the new operators of Hastings Castle, as part of a wider vision to transform West Hill into an enhanced cultural and visitor destination for residents and visitors alike.
“The proposals have been shaped through public engagement, with consultation events held throughout the design process. Feedback from residents, stakeholders and heritage organisations has helped inform the scheme as it has evolved.”
Celia Farrar, from Troika Projects, said: “We’re delighted that the Planning Committee has recognised the potential of these proposals and the positive impact they can have on the future of the Hastings Castle and West Hill Project.
“This is an important milestone in creating a welcoming, accessible visitor centre that reflects the significance of this remarkable historic site.
“On behalf of the project team, we would like to thank everyone who has taken the time to engage with the proposals so far and we look forward to continuing to work with the council, Historic England and the local community as the project moves forward.”
The Green deputy leader of the council, Julia Hilton, said: “This is a significant milestone for the West Hill Project and another positive step in delivering this flagship Town Deal project.
“The new visitor centre will become a key part of the experience of visiting the West Hill, Hastings Castle and the West Hill Lift.”
Councillor Hilton, who is also the lead councillor for shaping places and community wealth building, said: “It will help safeguard one of our most important heritage assets and put it back at the heart of our history as a town as well as attracting more visitors to enjoy everything Hastings has to offer.”
The council said that Historic England had reviewed the proposals and raised no objection to the plans.
The council added: “As the project progresses, further heritage approvals, including scheduled monument consent, will be secured to ensure the development protects and enhances this nationally significant historic site.
“While planning permission is an important milestone, a number of statutory processes remain before construction can begin.
“These include a separate process relating to the proposed disposal of a small area of open space to the south west of the existing café which is required to accommodate a modest extension to the new building.
“The proposal will be considered by Hastings Borough Council’s Planning Committee following the required public consultation.
“The West Hill Project is funded through the government’s Hastings Town Deal programme which is investing in projects that strengthen the local economy, celebrate the town’s heritage and create lasting benefits for local communities.”
