Hastings developer reveals plans for former Observer building

The former Observer building in Cambridge Road, Hastings. Picture: Beth Woolf

A neighbourhood developer has vowed to turn the former Observer building into a community asset after its offer to purchase the building was accepted.

White Rock Neighbourhood Ventures – the owner of neighbouring Rock House – secured the purchase of the empty Cambridge Road site on Monday (November 12).

Beth Woolf, communications leader of White Rock Neighbourhood Ventures, said: “We can’t bear to see the vast, beautiful space wasted any longer when it has the potential to offer so much to the town.

“We are in a strong position having made a success of the community-led development of Rock House.

“Although the project will be a stretch for our team, we know we have the resources, networks, creativity and energy to act as lead developer and realise the building’s value for the community.”

The former Observer building has had 12 different owners since it closed in the 1980s.

In December 2017, an application for an artist studio on the lower ground, residents’ gym on the mezzanine, and a restaurant and shop, together with 50 flats with private roof terrace was given the green light by Hastings Borough Council.