Two new benches celebrating Newhaven’s heritage and coastal landscape have been installed at Fort Road Recreation Ground as a £3.4 million regeneration project nears completion.
The benches were created following a competition organised by Lewes District Council in partnership with community arts organisation Hospitable Environment.
Almost 100 entries were submitted, with the winning designs coming from Seahaven Academy Year 9 student Alfie Sinclair and Newhaven artists Diets Verschuren and Caroline Marsland.
The designs reflect the town’s maritime history, wildlife and coastal setting and have been placed in the recreation ground’s new community garden.
Councillor Johnny Denis, Cabinet Member for Arts, Culture, Tourism and Leisure, said: "I love these benches! With wonderful designs by Alfie, Diets and Caroline, they are another visible sign of the transformation taking place at Fort Road Recreation Ground. What makes them particularly special is that they were shaped by local people, creating features that reflect Newhaven's identity and will be enjoyed by residents and visitors for many years to come."
The wider regeneration of Fort Road Recreation Ground is being funded by the UK Government and Lewes District Council.
Work already completed includes the refurbishment of Shakespeare Hall, improvements to the cricket pavilion, a new artificial cricket wicket, modernised public toilets and landscaping across the site.
Further work is continuing on a new outdoor gym and children’s play area.
A community noticeboard has also been installed, while plans are being developed for a new café and community space.
The recreation ground has also seen measures introduced to support wildlife, including bird and bat boxes.
Work on the new community garden is continuing, with additional planting due to take place during the autumn.
Councillor Emily O'Brien, Cabinet Member for Climate, Nature and Food Systems, added: "I would like to thank the wonderful volunteers who have worked so hard on the community gardens, particularly during the recent hot weather. They generously give up their time to help create and care for these spaces, and their commitment is making a really positive difference to the park."
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