New purpose-built church to be developed in Eastbourne town centre

An artist's impression of the new church SUS-190429-125722001

Four Eastbourne churches which are merging and moving to a brand new building in the town centre are holding consultations with the public.

Central Methodist, St Andrew’s and Upperton URF and Greenfield Methodist churches will be leaving their current buildings which are ‘unfit for present day use’ and moving to a new purpose-built site where the Upperton Road church is currently based.

Planning permission was obtained in 2016 and work is due to start on the building this year.

The new building will be a ‘modern and flexible space, suitable for both worship and community use, and will enable the church to fulfil its mission long into the 21st century’, said a spokesperson.

An artist's impression of the new church SUS-190429-125741001

“New premises mean new opportunities to serve the local community. Our facilities will include a modern, welcoming café for the local community; the provision of showers and space so that the church can support the night shelter in town, and rooms for community groups to use.”

The cost of the building is being met through the sale of the four former church sites – and a fundraising effort has been launched to cover the shortfall, which is estimated to be about £475,000.

The spokesperson added, “We have already raised a substantial sum by direct giving, local fund-raising initiatives and the sale of church assets. We are also issuing an appeal for help from the people of Eastbourne.