Work begins on £3m town centre renovation

The project spanning over a year will cost £3.1m

Work has begun on the creation of a £3m new green space to link a West Sussex town centre to the seafront.

Worthing's Montague Place will be transformed into Montague Gardens in a joint venture between Worthing Borough Council (WBC) and West Sussex County Council.

Plans for the site include a stand-out Worthing place sign, a green living wall and a sundeck area at the north end to welcome residents and visitors.

Rita Garner, WBC's deputy leader and cabinet member for regeneration, said the green space would "revitalise the town centre" and create a "welcoming and vibrant setting" for everyone.

The work aims to make the space "welcoming and vibrant"

Local company Edburton Contractors was appointed to undertake the work, which is due to be done in phases over a 12 to 15-month period.

Other changes include planting up to 30 new trees and drought-resistant planting, as well as more lighting to increase safety in the evening, said the council.

The local authorities are also creating a new play area that celebrates Worthing's seaside heritage and highlights kelp restoration.

Funded by the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) Strategic Fund and business rates, the works will cost £3.1m in total.

Montague Gardens will become the third public realm regeneration project within the current Worthing Growth Deal, a partnership between the two councils.

Councillor Garry Wall, West Sussex County Council's cabinet member for economy and skills, said he was "looking forward" to the project.

"This initiative will support Worthing town centre and the seafront economy," he said.

"All agreements are now in place and we are excited to move forward."