Major work begins at landmark seafront arts venue

2 hours ago

Tanya GuptaSouth East

News image — The De La Warr Pavilion is celebrating its 90th anniversary

Giles Barnard/BBC The De La Warr Pavilion’s modernist architecture has curved white balconies, with metal railings and a glass‑fronted stairwell with a spiral staircase inside. There are large rectangular windows looking out on to the open paved terrace in the foreground. — The De La Warr Pavilion is celebrating its 90th anniversary

Work has begun on a major project to restore a Grade I listed arts centre in East Sussex in urgent need of repairs.

It comes as the De La Warr Pavilion in Bexhill, which has hosted artists including Keane, Sophie Ellis Bextor, Dionne Warwick and Rag'n'Bone Man, celebrates its 90th year.

Bob Marley also performed his first UK gig at the modernist landmark on the seafront while supporting Johnny Nash in 1972.

Stewart Drew, chief executive and director of the venue, said that the initial phase of work would focus on the roof and the building's "iconic staircase glazing".

New auditorium seating will later be installed and a "piano lift" which has been out of service for three years will be brought back into operation.

Work will also include creating storage under the stage to reduce heavy lifting and turnaround times in the theatre.

All areas of the venue will remain open throughout 2026.

Getty Images Suzy Eddie Izzard stands outdoors in formal black tie evening wear. The modernist architecture of the De La Warr Pavilion with its large glass windows and white balconies is blurred in the background. — Backers include comedian and actor Suzy Eddie Izzard

Last year, the arts centre team announced the award of a £7.6m lottery grant for the first phase of the restoration.

The deteriorating building is showing its age physically and environmentally, with leaking roofs, poorly insulated walls and corroding metal-framed windows, Drew said.

He added that the work was part of a masterplan "to reimagine this special place for the next century".

Backers include Rother District Council, the National Lottery, charities and comedian and actor Suzy Eddie Izzard.

De La Warr Pavilion An evening view of the De La Warr Pavilion shows its long white modernist facade lit at dusk. A cylindrical glass stair tower is lit with a warm light and there are people walking up the steps and gathering outside the main entrance. Illuminated signs list upcoming events. — How the De La Warr could look after the restoration

Fabric for the seating is being produced at Bute Fabrics on the Isle of Bute – home to the De La Warr's sister pavilion, in Rothesay.

Supporters can help fund the project by donating to the Your Seat in History campaign, which will allow them to have their name engraved on a chair plaque.

Drew added: "While there will be some changes around the building during this period, we're delivering a bumper programme of events, exhibitions, gigs, screenings and special days."

Events this year will include Bexhill's Big Summer Sounds festival, with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra and a major outdoor programme on the terrace and lawns.

Follow BBC Sussex on Facebook, on X, and on Instagram. Send your story ideas to southeasttoday@bbc.co.uk or WhatsApp us on 08081 002250.