Council backtrack over controversial cupola

Rother District Council (RDC) was effectively forced to back-pedal over the controversial cupola for the Colonnade after the government advisors for listed buildings told them it would "do harm to the setting" of both the De La Warr Pavilion and the Colonnade.

Protesters welcomed the news, and paid tribute to the foresight of one Bexhill man.

Jack Seabrook, of Richmond Avenue, successfully applied for listing building status for the Colonnade in November 2008 after identifying a dangerous potential development in the council's Next Wave plans.

On hearing that English Heritage has blocked the cupola, Jack, who reported being "amazed" to learn in November the Colonnade was not already a listed building, commented: "I'm pleased the council has at last been made to realise the importance of the site.

"I'm very pleased English Heritage are supporting the many local people who have objected to this development. The enclosed spiral staircase would spoil the setting of the Pavilion and the views from it."

Ignoring English Heritage's advice would involve a costly inquiry on behalf of the Secretary of State - something that would cripple Next Wave's vital funding timescale.

John Hodson, who recently measured out the cupola's dimensions to raise public understanding of what he has maintained is a flawed design, said: "We are delighted with this result, and we are hoping this will be the end of the staircase idea."

Next Wave project sponsor Cllr Christopher Starnes said: "English Heritage has welcomed the Rother District Council initiative to refurbish and upgrade the Colonnade, but have concerns over the addition of the cupola.

"The council has listened to their concerns and has removed this part of the application to meet English Heritage's aims.

"English Heritage has given the council strong backing in its overall vision for the Colonnade and we will work with it to provide an improved offer for residents and visitors.

"Rother District Council does not see the cupola element of the plan as integral to the success of the scheme."

Do you agree with English Heritage? Or are you sympathetic to the council's design? Leave your comments below.