Press Releases

Sussex Express 25/2/11 and Seaford Scene March 2011

EBCARA – a new community group formed to conserve historic East Blatchington village

A well-attended and lively first meeting of the newly-formed East Blatchington Conservation Area Residents Association – EBCARA – has just taken place, at St Peter’s Church Hall in Belgrave Road.

The Conservation Area consists of the old downland village of East Blatchington. It includes Blatchington Hill, the lower half of Firle Road and adjacent parts of Belgrave and Upper Belgrave Roads. It runs from Norlington House in Avondale Road and Blatchington Pond in the south to Rosecroft in the north, and comprises 64 households.

It seems that many Seaford residents are unaware of the Conservation Area’s existence – or its historic heritage. EBCARA seeks to address this by promoting the area, and to conserve and enhance its historic environment.

Local councillors and politicians such as MP Norman Baker have in the past supported residents over a range of issues. But it is clear from the lack of progress so far that residents need a proper, organized community structure in order to move forward. EBCARA is intended to work on the broadest base of united opinion, and seeks to ensure that residents’ views are consulted appropriately on the issues that affect them and the area in which they live.

At the opening meeting, members approved a constitution for EBCARA and agreed a range of priority issues. Local media and the town, district and county councils will be kept up to date with EBCARA’s future activities.

Geoff Cheetham

Press Officer

Tel 07738 177461

E mail - geoffcheethamuk@yahoo.co.uk