National Lottery Grants for Heritage – £250,000 to £5million
Commissioned in 1935 by the 9th Earl De La Warr and designed by architects Erich Mendelsohn and Serge Chermayeff, the De La Warr Pavilion in Bexhill is the UK’s first modernist multi-arts centre.
With our support of over £7.6million, the first phase of the project will safeguard the Pavilion for the next 100 years. Delivered by the De La Warr Pavilion Trust and Rother District Council, the project focuses on essential repairs to the building and improvements to access and visitor facilities.
Work will include repairing the auditorium and foyer roofs, replacing windows and protecting the fabric of the building.
Alongside the restoration, the project will:
- run co-creation groups to ensure community voices shape the Pavilion’s future
- enable skills development opportunities, including apprenticeships and industry placements
- introduce sustainable approaches, such as low-carbon heating infrastructure and renewable energy systems
- strengthen the Pavilion’s organisational resilience
Our Chief Executive Eilish McGuinness said: “This project will conserve and celebrate this modernist jewel, connecting the community and visitors to the heritage of one of Britain's most important modernist landmarks.
“Thanks to National Lottery players, our funding will support the first stage of the restoration of the De La Warr Pavilion. It will shine a light on its architectural and social history, securing its place as a vibrant creative hub to build pride in place and make sure heritage is cared for and sustained for everyone now and in the future.”
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