THE Eastbourne Arndale Centre will celebrate the opening of its £85 million extension next year with a new name and a new look.

As the doors to the extension open for the first time in the run-up to Christmas 2018, the whole shopping centre will be rebranded as The Beacon.

The name was agreed following discussions, consultations and focus group meetings.

They say it reflects the growing stature of the town as a beacon for new investments and developments.

In addition the 22 new retail units, seven restaurants and eight-screen cinema in the extension, coupled with the range of shops in the existing centre, will act as a beacon to shoppers “looking for an exciting new experience”.

The word “beacon” also reminds people of the coastal history and the landmark Beachy Head Lighthouse.

Andrew Rice, fund manager for centre owner Legal and General, said: “It’s never easy to find a new name for a shopping centre with a 37-year history in the town.”