Council planners recommend retrospective approval of fake olde lampposts for the Pier

Civic pride apparently knows no beginning when it comes to Hastings Borough Council (HBC) and the Pier, supposedly the town’s central attraction. Retrospective planning application HS/LB/24/00047 is to be considered by the Planning Committee on Wednesday 5 June, but the companion case (HS/FA/24/00046) not also being considered — and what of the many existing breaches of Listed Building Consent there? The planners’ complacency or complicity is concerning, as is a false statement regarding enforcement action. Bernard McGinley reports.