MP states Pontins Camber owners plan redevelopment

The local Member of Parliament has announced that the proprietors of an East Sussex holiday park plan to redevelop and relaunch the location as a tourist destination. The Pontins site in Camber, which previously drew 80,000 visitors annually, has remained vacant since its abrupt closure in December 2023, causing difficulties for businesses in the area. Helena Dollimore, the Labour MP representing Hastings and Rye, expressed her approval of “the clarity for the Camber community that their intention it to redevelop it as a holiday destination.” On Tuesday, Ms. Dollimore convened a meeting with Britannia Hotels, the owner of Pontins, and Rother District Council (RDC), which holds the leasehold for the holiday park premises. She issued a statement, which she indicated had received approval from both Britannia and RDC, affirming that the company “confirmed it was their intention to redevelop the site as a holiday destination.” The statement further added: “They intend to work closely with the local community in Camber.” A meeting between Camber Parish Council, Rye and District Chamber of Commerce (RDCC), RDC, and Britannia Hotels is anticipated to take place in January 2025. The BBC has sought a statement from Britannia Hotels. While Ms. Dollimore appreciated the “clarity” provided to the community, she cautioned that the process will “take time” and is “not going to happen overnight.” She remarked: “There has been lots of rumours flying around the community and a vacuum of information, so we have broken that deadlock.” Sarah Broadbent, the vice chair of RDCC, described the announcement as “appears positive” but cautioned that “we cannot just have a vague pledge for redevelopment of the site.” She emphasized that the “devil will be in the detail” and that a timeline would be “critical.” She added: “We need action, not just words, so that the business community and the people of Camber have a clear understanding of the road map going forward.” She further encouraged Britannia Hotels to “be more open in their communications,” stating that “their policy of silence thus far has led to rumour and gossip which is unhelpful at best and doesn’t engender trust.” Councillor Christine Bayliss, who serves as the deputy leader of RDC and cabinet member for economic development and regeneration, conveyed that she was “heartened” by Britannia Hotel’s commitment to collaborate with local partners, including the district council.