May
2026
Council invites views on
Carpet Gardens
Residents, visitors and businesses are being invited to have their say in a new survey about planting styles at the Carpet Gardens.
The ONLINE independent survey, launched today will run until Sunday, August 31.
In summer 2025, a new sustainable style of planting was introduced within the Carpet Gardens as a one‑year showcase. This was designed to create an attractive, year‑round display, and to better withstand the increasingly wet, hot and dry conditions experienced on the seafront, while also supporting wildlife.
Alongside the new planting, one section of the Carpet Gardens has remained in the traditional summer bedding style, allowing people to compare the two approaches side by side. The traditional scheme has been in place for many years, delivering displays in spring and summer but requiring plants to be replaced twice a year, at significant cost and with no real benefits for biodiversity.
The short survey can also be completed on paper. Copies are available from the
- Seafront Office beside the Bandstand,
- Eastbourne Borough Council offices at 1 Grove Rd
- Qualisea Fish Restaurant on Terminus Road.
Mar
2026
Remembering Chris Leach
On Thursday, 26th March, there was a celebration of the life of Chris Leach, our esteemed Chairperson who sadly passed away on 19th January 2026.
A Book of Condolences was made available for people to share their thoughts about Chris
Our next Talk
Usually held on the Second Tuesday in the month but this month we meet on Tuesday, May 26th instead due to room availability.
Our next Members' meeting and TALK is with guest speaker, Sarah Tye who will give an update on the Seafront Strategy.
Latest news
A proposal has been put forward for the former Heritage Centre to be turned into a Lounge Bar and Restaurant by the owners of the nearby Bohemia Pub.
Planning Application 260253 for The Tower House at 2 Carlisle Road can be seen here.
Local Government Reorganisation
Joint statement from One East Sussex councils in response to LGR announcement. See government letter here
"We are frustrated that Government are not ready to make a decision about the future shape of Local Government in East Sussex, but will instead consult on a variation of the One East Sussex proposal after the elections in May."
Become A Member
Join or Renew HERE
January is membership renewal month.
Help make a better Eastbourne by joining a passionate community of 500 people dedicated to preserving Eastbourne’s unique charm.
Find out what is happening in our town and with other get actively involved in local initiatives.
Support our mission ensuring Eastbourne has a bright and vibrant future.
65
Years
500+
Members
9
Trustees
Membership of The Eastbourne Society
Get Involved
Members are invited to get involved by giving feedback, volunteering or serving on the board of trustees.
Volunteer
The Eastbourne Society is run by volunteers who support various projects and committees. Tell us what you are interested in by downloading and completing a Volunteering Form HERE
Trustee Nomination
Our AGM is held in April each year. Members can put themselves forward for election to join the Board of Trustees by downloading a Trustee Nomination Form HERE
Where to find us
Second Tuesday Monthly
On the Second Tuesday in the month we host a talk at 7.30pm in the Sussex Suite at The Cavendish Hotel Eastbourne.
Visitors are welcome to come and join us as a Guest and can pay £5 on the door.
Last Friday
Monthly
On the Last Friday in the month several Heritage Groups can be found displaying literature at The Gather Space in the Beacon Shopping Centre between 10am and 4pm.
A Conservation Officer is available between 1pm and 3pm to answer questions
Legal
- Organisation: The Eastbourne Society
- Registered Office: Room 11, Town Hall, Grove Road, Eastbourne BN21 4UG
- Contact: secretary@eastbournesociety.co.uk
- Charity Number: 1142550
- Company Number: 7335791
- Regulator: Charity Commission & Companies House
Membership
- Open to all Eastbourne residents
- Annual membership fees: Individual £20; Joint £25; Under 25s £10
- Monthly talks & Social Events
- Free quality Quarterly Magazine called the Observer
- Sign Up Here