There were once two Victorian cast-iron shelters on East Parade, this is the only one that remains. The other sat between lawns to the west and was taken away during the Second World War, probably used as scrap for munitions. As with all the other shelters on East Parade, this shelter is Grade II listed. It was built in August 1896 by Henry Young & Co Engineers London. The architect was William Herbert Alton.
Precondition
The Victorian seafront shelter is in poor and steadily deteriorating condition. The iron collars were attached to the wooden framework with pins – these have almost completely corroded; the iron support columns are all in restorable condition; some wooden panels have rotted and are missing; most of the paintwork has deteriorated.
Restoration
Bexhill Heritage is keen support the restoration by:
- Safely removing paint, repairing woodwork and repainting throughout in high quality oil-based paint in Bexhill’s colours.
- Managing the repair and, where necessary, the replacement of the shelter’s iron frame.
- Creating a theme for the shelter to celebrate Sussex’s rich literary tradition, encourage its care and attract visitors.