Restoration Efforts Underway for Seaford Sailing Club: Help Needed to Save Historic Building

Seaford Sailing Club, a once vibrant hub for sailors and social members, is in desperate need of restoration work to breathe new life into its dilapidated 1970s building. The club, located in Marine Parade, closed its doors late last year due to concerns over its rusting steel frame, leaving more than 1,000 members without a place to gather and enjoy the seafront views.

Terry Jones, the commodore at the sailing club, expressed the urgency of the situation, stating that the clubhouse has reached the end of its lifespan after over five decades of use without significant renovation. The club has managed to save £185,000 for the restoration project, but an additional £20,000 is needed to cover the full costs.

Members and supporters are encouraged to visit the club’s Crowdfunder page to contribute to this vital cause. The goal is not only to reopen the clubhouse for future generations to enjoy but also to enhance inclusivity, safety, and community engagement along Seaford seafront.

The building, which was described as being at “the end of its life” in a 2012 structural survey, faced the risk of being demolished last year. However, with the support of the community, the sailing club is determined to save the historic building and preserve its legacy for years to come.

Newhaven and Seaford Sailing Club, founded in 1952, caters to a diverse range of water sports enthusiasts, including windsurfers, catamaran users, kayakers, and canoeists. The restoration of the clubhouse will not only benefit current members but also improve accessibility for elderly and disabled members, ensuring that the club remains a welcoming and inclusive space for all.