2002 Eastbourne Borough Council election

[1] The Liberal Democrats gained overall control of the council from the Conservative Party.

[2] Before the election the Conservatives controlled the council with 18 seats, compared to 12 for the Liberal Democrats.

[3] The Liberal Democrats gained a majority of 3 on the council with 15 seats, compared to 12 for the Conservatives.

[4] Over a quarter of the Liberal Democrat councillors elected were new to the role,[5] with the Liberal Democrat gains in Old Town and St Anthony's wards being reported as crucial to them taking control.

[8] The Liberal Democrat success was put down to controversy over the Old Town library, issues such as anti-social behaviour and abandoned cars, and boundary changes.