The Fisherman’s Quay will be a vibrant, multi-purpose destination which combines a sustainable fishing industry for the local area with a heritage visitor destination. Delivery of the Fisherman’s Quay will maximise the local economic benefits arising from the fishing activity, through transforming an uneven, open yard into a resilient and productive community asset.

The site is currently used for the open-air landing and preparation of fish and shellfish by Eastbourne’s inshore static gear fishing fleet. Fish are caught, landed and sold on the same day, exposing local fishermen to short-term swings in supply and demand.

The current open-air arrangement presents a risk to the public, who are not allowed on the site, as well as to the fisherman themselves. The project aims to improve working conditions through the provision of on-site toilets and access to running water. In addition, the project seeks to provide storage facilities for the fleet’s fishing equipment which will both improve safety on the site and help safeguard the condition of this equipment.

The project will be delivered in three phases:

• Phase 1 will deliver the completion of site works, drainage and servicing for the whole site, alongside delivery of a three storey,
  270 sqm space to house equipment for ice production, cold storage and the processing of fish. Phase 1 will also deliver an on-site retail unit for wet fish sales.
• Phase 2 will deliver two buildings, which are joined on the upper floors, offering 360 sqm of new space. The ground and first floors will provide storage space for fishing and landing equipment as well as a repair workshop.
• Phase 3 will deliver a 150 sqm building which will be used as a Visitor Centre and as a base for the Eastbourne Fisherman’s under 10m
  Community Interest Company’s outreach and engagement work, which will include operating as a training venue for mandatory sea survival and first aid courses, provision of courses in preparing and cooking seafood and the hosting of educational open days.

The GPF funding has been awarded to facilitate delivery of Phase 1, whilst delivery of Phases 2 and 3 of the project are supported by a Local Growth Fund allocation. 

Growing Places Fund

The Growing Places Fund (GPF) was established by the Ministry for Housing, Communities and Local Government (formerly the Department for Communities and Local Government) and the Department for Transport (DfT) in 2011. The aim of this funding is to unlock economic growth, create jobs and ‘kick-start’ house building at stalled development sites.