Plans submitted to convert historic Eastbourne phone box into food and drinks kiosk

Plans have been submitted to Eastbourne Borough Council to convert a historic red telephone box into a kiosk selling hot and cold drinks, snacks, and ice cream.

Key Details of the Proposal

• Location: The phone box is situated on Marine Parade, directly outside Eastbourne Pier.
• Operating Hours: The proposed kiosk would operate seven days a week from 7:30 am to 7:30 pm.
• Menu Items: The unit is intended to vend hot and cold beverages, snacks, and ice cream.
• Restrictions:
  • No food preparation or handling will take place on the premises.
  • No alcohol will be stored or sold from the unit.
• Staffing: The kiosk will be staffed at all times during operating hours, with staff using money belts to secure funds when the unit is briefly unattended for breaks. 

   

Preservation and Design

The application emphasizes maintaining the historic character of the structure: 

• Appearance: The iconic "TELEPHONE" signage will be retained, and the box will be redecorated in its original red to match existing heritage standards.
• Structure: Specialist replacement of the glazing will be performed using existing frames and beading to ensure the architectural design remains unaltered.
• Visibility: Views into the box will be preserved to maintain its visual identity as a traditional telephone kiosk. 

The application follows the recent sale of the kiosk at auction, where it was marketed as a "unique business opportunity".