Next Wave, funded by CABE Seachange, aimed to make the seafront and public realm surrounding the iconic Grade 1 listed De La Warr Pavilion an attractive place for residents and visitors to Bexhill and a catalyst for the economic regeneration of this Edwardian seaside resort. HTA's design achieved this through increasing activity, accessibility, usability and biodiversity.
HTA introduced the idea of a heavily programmed open space where every place was given meaning and use, replacing the homogeneous landscape that had no suggestion of how it might be used.
The landscape now affords visitors the opportunity to enjoy the visual spectacle of the English seaside in full promenading mode. The completed project has exceeded the stakeholders' expectations as it has increased visitor numbers, extended the tourist season by providing an active ‘year round’ seafront, generated publicity and contributed to the economic sustainability of the town. Anecdotal evidence suggests that use of the promenade has increased ten-fold.
HTA's Graphics team were additionally commissioned to create a bespoke integrated solution to revised signage for the project, including full area mapping and seafront monoliths with directional information.
The promenade is now a biodiverse linear parkland that is beautiful, informative, highly adaptable and low maintenance. HTA received the Landscape Institute's 2012 highly commended award for design under 1 hectare.
'This is a simple yet beautifully designed waterfront space. The process of plant selection and use should be held up as best practice.'
