Hastings sees boost to local tourism industry

Hastings Borough Council has announced a new programme of investment designed to strengthen and grow the town’s tourism economy.

The council knows how important Hastings’ history is, with a name that is recognised across the world, so the council is delighted to be investing in the town’s heritage assets, such as the new West Hill Café and visitor centre and Victorian West Hill cliff railway. 

Plans are also underway to celebrate the upcoming Year of the Normans and the return of the Bayeux Tapestry to the UK for the first time in 1,000 years, giving Hastings a huge opportunity to showcase the town’s extraordinary story to a global audience. 

The council is delighted to have a number of events planned to mark this historic occasion, including showcasing the Hastings Embroidery and providing opportunities for existing festivals and community groups to bid for funding to help incorporate a Norman theme to their events. A programme of events will be shared shortly.

The town also has more anniversaries this summer, with the 100th birthday of influential borough engineer Sidney Little, whose innovative seafront design transformed the town. The council is excited to be inviting artists to submit expressions of interest for a new creative intervention at Bottle Alley. This will build on the previous successful installation by ZEROH, which started the modern transformation of Bottle Alley.

Cllr Julia Hilton, Deputy Leader and lead for shaping places and Local Government Reorganisation, said: 

“Tourism plays a vital role in Hastings’ economy and identity. This investment demonstrates our commitment to celebrating our unique heritage while supporting local businesses, artists and community organisations.

“To further strengthen tourism development, the council is funding a new Strategic Tourism Lead role as part of a shared services agreement with neighbouring authorities in Eastbourne and Lewes. This collaboration aims to drive regional tourism growth, regeneration, and cultural development.

“The new Visit Hastings website is also due to launch in the coming months, giving visitors an easy way to discover events and activities happening across Hastings.”

Further details on the investment programme are available in the council’s published budget papers.