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This article is about the English town. See also Eastbourne, New Zealand.
Eastbourne is a medium-sized town in East Sussex, on the
south coast of the UK, with a population, according to the 2001
census, of around 90,000. The town promotes itself as "The Sunshine Coast", and often
claims the highest recorded hours of sunshine, producing a rivalry with the more popular coastal resort of Bournemouth. To many people, however, Eastbourne is more readily associated with the
elderly, as it has historically been a popular retirement destination. This reputation is no longer entirely accurate, as recent
major housing developments have been aimed mainly at young families, and the provision of adequate schooling is a key local
issue.
Geographically, Eastbourne is situated at the very end of the South Downs,
and boasts the famous Beachy Head cliff, as well as extensive beaches. It is
also within fairly easy reach of Brighton and London, although the lack of modernisation of the local train network makes it less attractive to commuters.
The seafront at Eastbourne is distinctive in having no garish shop fronts opening onto it, the road being almost entirely
populated by Victorian hotels. This is because much of Eastbourne has traditionally belonged to the Duke of Devonshire, who
retains the rights to these buildings and does not allow them to be developed into shops. Along with its pier and bandstand, this
serves to preserve the front in a somewhat timeless manor.
Eastbourne is also home to the Women's tennis tournament which is traditionally seen
as the warm-up to Wimbledon, and attracts many of the
same players.
Politically, Eastbourne is closely fought between the Liberal Democrats and the Conservatives, and has frequently changed hands. As of 2004, it has a Liberal Democrat Council and a Conservative MP. There is no Labour Party representation, and Labour candidates are usually
considered to have little chance in elections.
Eastbourne was the winner in the 'Large Coastal Resort' category in the 2003 Britain in Bloom.
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