The final elements for the temporary transformation of the vacant Brewers Fayre site have now been delivered, with the installation of seating and planting as well as information boards signposting to information showcasing the town’s offer and local businesses. The fun elements introduced - including chairs like ice cream and bespoke “sticks of rock” seating - all connect with the bright and cheerful seaside theme for the site.
The temporary transformation is an Arun District Council project to create a welcoming space that enlivens the site over the summer season while plans are developed for longer term uses of the premises.
Leader of Arun District Council, Cllr Matt Stanley said, “The need to enhance the site for the important summer season arose at short notice, and we are pleased to have worked in partnership with Bognor Regis BID to both improve its appearance and create a fun and welcoming space for people to enjoy in a tight timeframe. Plans for the longer-term uses of the site continue to be explored and plans for the rejuvenation of the Alexandra Theatre are progressing according to schedule.”
Heather Allen of Bognor Regis BID added, “Our businesses have been clear that the BID’s activity should prioritise making Bognor Regis even more well-known and welcoming. The prime seafront location of the Brewers Fayre, alongside a main entrance point to the town centre means the site is really influential in the way visitors perceive Bognor Regis. It also affects residents’ sense of pride in the place that they live. As soon as the changed circumstances at the site became known, the BID reached out to Arun District Council to offer our logistical support to help them deliver visual improvements over the pivotal summer season that will benefit not only businesses, but the wider community and town.”
Ms Allen went on to say that “All credit for the idea to install boards signposting to tourist information and promote local businesses must go to Cllr Jim Brooks, which was subsequently supported by discussions taking place on local social media sites. We know that a lot of returning visitors will be unaware of the closure of the Brewers Fayre, so, in addition to signposting to the Love Bognor Regis visitor website on the Place St Maur side, the BID has invested funds paid by its businesses to create and install signage at the main entrance to the site. These signs include QR codes linking to alternative food & drink businesses in and around the town centre. The BID is funding listings for its levy paying businesses, but any business with a PO21 and PO22 postcode is welcome to advertise on the site. Full details can be found at lovebognorregis.co.uk/advertising”
