04 Sept 2024
The Colonnade and Pleasure Gardens at Sutton-on-Sea is a landmark project within a wider regeneration initiative along the East Coast of the UK.
This ambitious undertaking aims to replace the existing colonnade with a new pavilion accommodating a variety of modern amenities, designed to enhance the quality of life for local residents and attract visitors. Headed by East Lindsey Council and funded through the Towns Fund Money, the project is set to transform the seafront area, injecting new energy and opportunities into Sutton-on-Sea.
Background
The previous colonnade at Sutton-on-Sea had been a beloved fixture of the community for many years. However, ongoing structural deterioration had rendered it unsafe, necessitating a significant intervention. Recognising the historical and social importance of the colonnade, With support from East Lindsey Council, CPMG decided not merely to replace it but to re-imagine it as part of a broader vision for the area’s future. This decision led to the development of the Colonnade and Pleasure Gardens project, a key component of the East Coast regeneration programme.
Project Scope and Objectives
The project involves constructing a new pavilion on the seafront. The pavilion will house a café and restaurant, providing a welcoming space for dining and socialising. Additionally, it will include play areas and multi-purpose spaces, providing flexibility for families and community events. The design also incorporates accessible WCs and changing spaces WC, ensuring inclusivity for all visitors. Surrounding the pavilion will be open green spaces and beach huts, creating a vibrant and attractive environment for leisure and recreation.
Timeline and Funding
Post the demolition phase, work on the Colonnade and Pleasure Gardens project commenced in December 2023, with an expected completion date set for early 2025. The project is funded by the Towns Fund Money, secured by East Lindsey Council. This funding is part of a larger £3.6 billion investment aimed at revitalising various towns, with Sutton-on-Sea being a significant beneficiary.
Community Engagement and Consultation
From the outset, community engagement has been a cornerstone of the project. Understanding the colonnade’s historical significance and its role in the community’s social fabric, East Lindsey Council undertook various consultations with local residents and businesses. These sessions were crucial in shaping the project’s development, ensuring that the new pavilion would meet the community’s needs and preserve the spirit of the original structure.
Design and Architectural Challenges
Designing a new pavilion that honoured the old colonnade’s legacy while incorporating modern architectural elements was no small feat task. CPMG faced the complex task of blending historical aesthetics with contemporary functionality. The final design, which was accepted by East Lindsey Council and used to secure funding, is a testament to our ability to balance these competing demands.
The project also had to navigate significant regulatory hurdles. Four planning applications were submitted, each addressing different aspects of safety, environmental impact, and community feedback. These iterations ensured that the final design was not only visually and functionally appealing but also compliant with all necessary regulations.
Impact and Benefits
The Colonnade and Pleasure Gardens project is poised to deliver substantial benefits to Sutton-on-Sea. Economically, it is expected to attract increased investments and support local businesses by increasing visitor numbers boost local businesses by drawing more visitors to the area. Socially, the project will provide new facilities and recreational opportunities, enhancing the quality of life for local residents and their visiting families
The new pavilion and surrounding green spaces will serve as a hub for community activities, fostering social cohesion and providing a versatile venue for events.
Related Projects within the East Coast Programme
The Colonnade and Pleasure Gardens is just one of several CPMG projects funded by the Towns Fund Money along the East Coast. Other notable initiatives include infrastructure improvements in Skegness and the Skegness Foreshore project. The latter features a masterplan for a new pavilion, complete with a zip line, outdoor cinema, and various outdoor activities centred around an existing boat lake.
Additionally, there are plans for eco lodges on the existing pitch and putt golf course in Skegness. This proposal envisions a development inspired by nature-focused retreats, with 16 overnight lodges creating a vehicle-free, environmentally friendly retreat. The scheme has received planning approval but has no funding this project would promise to further enhance the region’s appeal as a tourist destination.
The Colonnade and Pleasure Gardens at Sutton-on-Sea represents a bold vision for the future, blending respect for the past with a forward-looking approach to community development. Through careful planning, extensive community consultation, and significant financial investment, the project aims to rejuvenate a cherished part of the town. As part of a broader East Coast regeneration effort, it highlights the transformative potential of well-conceived public infrastructure projects. Upon completion, the Colonnade and Pleasure Gardens will stand as a testament to the power of community-focused development and the enduring value of public spaces.
