Eastbourne studio could be converted into new upmarket bar

The proposal outlines the transformation of the former Jane De Weck Photography at 58 South Street, Eastbourne, into a bar specialising in craft beer and cider.

The photography studio closed in March 2025 after more than 20 years in business.

The application was submitted by Drublik Limited, a company formed by four directors for the purpose of this venture.

The directors, bring considerable of experience from the beer and cider industry.

Matt Billing and Lauren Bartlett have successfully managed Ascension Cider for more than eight years, while Mark Potter runs Route 21 Brewing, a small Eastbourne-based operation.

The site has been a photography studio for more than 20 years (Image: Google) In the planning application, the directors stated: “The focus is on quality products, and we anticipate that this will attract older and more responsible customers.

“We believe that this is a type of premises that the town is lacking, and believe it should be successful as well as enhancing the town in this category.”

The proposed bar would serve a range of beverages, including quality spirits, wines, and non-alcoholic options.

The directors also plan to sell takeaway cans and bottles for home consumption. The venue would not offer a food service but will provide pub snacks.

The establishment would not host live music or TV screenings.

The building, which formerly operated as a photography studio, would undergo significant changes to adapt it for use as a bar.

Internal partitions, originally installed to create a studio, storage area, and office, will be removed to restore the full footprint of the main area, providing a large space for seating.

The bar will initially not offer outdoor seating, although the directors have not ruled out this option for the future.

They hope to be ready to open by late summer, pending the necessary planning, licensing, and refit.

Directors said the new bar would be an ‘upmarket’ establishment (Image: Google) The directors stressed that the bar is not intended to be a budget drinking establishment.

They stated: “We will not be selling cheap products and will not be offering drinks deals to encourage customers seeking a cheap way to get drunk.

“There are other locations within the town that are more suitable for budget and binge drinking and we would expect those drinkers to be using those establishments due to their differing offer.”

The internal and external aspects of the building would be fully redecorated, and the original features would be restored where possible.

The signage would also be replaced with that of the new bar.

The planning application is currently under consideration by Eastbourne Borough Council, and can be viewed using the reference 250434.