As an outstanding example of early twentieth century architecture, local industrial heritage and a community asset with possibilities for local engagement and employment, we believe that the Observer Building should be brought into community custodianship, its future determined by public consultation - including the right to reject any planning application that changes its use.

This petition is necessary due to the prolonged ill-disposed actions of the lending bank, which has shown serious lack of care and due diligence on multiple occasions, further contributing to the building's dilapidation and neglect. Additionally, before the recent sale of the building, the bank failed to adequately provide notice to both the council and community groups, in spite of an earlier petition signed by over two-thousand people requesting community asset protection [view previous petition].

Originally designed in 1914 by the renowned and respected Henry Ward, the architect of many large public buildings in and around Hastings, the first owner of the Observer Building was so honoured to own it that he included its picture on business invoices and gave the building its own logo. The future of the building should be guided by a committee comprising representatives from the local and county council; community, leisure, and enterprise groups; and educational establishments. 

With many significant sites in the area being converted to housing, Hastings now has the lowest job density in the South East. It also scores below all other East Sussex districts for sense of belonging, satisfaction with local area, and influencing local decisions. By actively engaging the community in the future of the Observer Building, it can be a conduit for aspirational urban regeneration. 

Recent events surrounding the building include: 

• 10 January 2008, Hastings Borough Council enforced a Section 215 Action due to 'Property in poor condition'.

• 25 June 2010, there was a restraint order made under section 41 of the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002 No.68110.

• 2012, the bank sold the property to a buyer who subsequently vanished.

• June 2014, without warning and in spite of community interest that included two-thousand petition signatures, the bank put the building up for auction. A few days prior to the planned auctioning, they then sold the building to a private buyer, even though the community group that saved the Hastings pier reacted quickly to news of the auction and had entered negotiations.

With its long history, people with a connection to the Observer Building are now spread out across the world. This petition is open to all, however, as Hastings Borough Council will only accept signatures from people who currently live, work, or study in the local area, the list of supporters will be submitted in two parts.