A significant public consultation has concluded with strong support for transforming the planting approach at a prominent coastal location in Eastbourne.
The initiative gathered responses from more than 16,000 individuals regarding the future of the Carpet Gardens, with approximately 70 percent endorsing a permanent adoption of environmentally sustainable planting methods rather than preserving the conventional Victorian bedding arrangement.
Jim Murray, serving as cabinet member for Carbon Neutral 2030 and Water Champion with Eastbourne Borough Council, expressed gratitude to all participants who contributed their opinions.
He noted that the Carpet Gardens represent a defining feature of the seafront and that the consultation demonstrated the importance residents place on the space.
The council intends to proceed with developing a display that balances aesthetic appeal with environmental benefits and adaptability.
The consultation process was managed by an independent body and concluded on August 31, seeking community input on whether to maintain the new sustainable approach or revert to the historical Victorian design.
Following the decisive outcome in favour of the sustainable option, council officers will now direct their efforts toward enhancing and perfecting the new planting methodology.
Jim Murray described the engagement as a constructive dialogue with local residents.
Officials indicated that additional information would be shared via the council’s digital platforms and media channels as the project progresses.