SAVE Britain’s Heritage issued an urgent new report today: Departing Stores: Emporia at Risk. They say: 'Department stores make up some of the finest and most socially significant buildings on British high streets.' Citing the TJ Hughes in Eastbourne as At Risk the report states: there are strong arguments for preserving this building in its entirety, which occupies a prominent position close to the seafront and is congruous with the historic fabric of surrounding buildings. The third floor was once home to a striking dining room with stained glass skylights and an impressive dome, which are still intact. It could easily operate as a smart restaurant again. As the Eastbourne Chronicle reported in 1926, “In elevation [the] premises will represent to Eastbourne what Woolworth’s premises represent to New York.” Welcoming the report, the Eastbourne Society was interviewed this morning on the BBC Radio Sussex breakfast show. 

We have been working with the developers Capreon who were asked to rethink their plans by Eastbourne Borough Council. They are due to show us their new design ideas after Easter and we very much hope that facade and dome retention will be evident. We'll keep you updated.

Thanks for your continued support and please do spread the word about this petition so that we can show Capreon just what this beautiful building means to us here in Eastbourne.