THE Government has given a big cash boost to help transform a listed historic building.

Money from the Getting Building Fund has been granted to Eastbourne Borough Council for its project to refurbish the Winter Gardens.

The building sits at the heart of the Devonshire Quarter and is Grade II listed.

Council leader David Tutt said: “I am delighted the Government has recognised the importance of our much-loved Winter Garden and its position as the last piece in the jigsaw of the town’s impressive Devonshire Quarter.

“Since the Winter Garden opened in 1875, it has hosted many events in Eastbourne’s history and is very much a part of the town’s fabric.

“We look forward to breathing new life back into the building over the next 18 months so that it can be used to its full potential for the future.”

The Government has pledged £1.6 million from its funds to boost the town’s coronavirus economic recovery.

It will go towards the £3.6 million pound plan to bring the Winter Gardens back to its former glory.

Mr Tutt, a Liberal Democrat representative, said the refurbishment project will enhance the historic character of the venue by reinstating original features and architecture.

The building is council owned and the work is the final stage of a £54 million scheme to boost Eastbourne’s civic buildings.

Work has previously included upgrades to the Congress Theatre, and also includes funding for the Devonshire Park Theatre, the world-renowned tennis courts and facilities for conferences and business events.

It has been welcomed by Eastbourne’s Conservative MP Caroline Ansell who says the Devonshire Quarter is a “cultural destination of regional importance”.

To find out more about what is on offer, visit devonshirequarter.co.uk