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major developments
major developments
Major Developments
There are a number of major developments that are key for the regeneration of Worthing. These key projects formed a major part of the Masterplan and are crucial to Worthing's furture. They will improve and enhance the quality of Worthing as a destination for both residents and visitors, while seeking to ensure that Worthing is able to compete with, and compliment, neighbouring towns.
An action plan of priorities has been drawn up, with key long term projects currently being implemented detailed below.
Aquarena
The Council agreed in September 2008 that the most appropriate site for the replacement swimming pool would be on the seafront and adjacent to the existing Aquarena (on the site of the current paddling pool). At the end of 2008 Consultants were commissioned to prepare a Development Brief setting out design principles for the replacement swimming pool and the redevelopment of the existing Aquarena site. A desgin competition was also launched with RIBA for a new pool alongside the development brief with GVA Grimley. Over 109 expressions of interest were receieved from developers keen to bring their vision to Worthing. The Shortlisted designer chosen to progress with the new pool was Wilkinson Eyre (link opens in a new window) for their 6 lane 25 metre pool with rapids, flumes and outdoors waters. The new pool complex also comes with a new fitness suite, and cafe overlooking the sea.
With a radical contemporary design, this new pool is a real first, creating a dynamic entrance to the Active Beach Zone and to Worthing.
Retail Core Study 2009
Since the Retail Development Brief was proposed in 2007, there have of course been dramatic changes with the current economy. As a result the Retail Development Brief has been reviewed as times are very different now to what they were even two years ago. The Retail Study undertaken has looked at ways of supporting the LDF and Core Strategy. The Retail Study looks at:
· Setting the boundary for the town centre
· Identifying the retail centre boundary
· Identifying primary and secondary retail areas
· A strategy to support existing retail areas in preparation for delivery of the new retail core
· A strategy for creative use of vacant shops during the economic downturn and throughout delivery of the new retail core.
The Core Studies can be viewed here: Retail Core Study
Retail Development Brief
Public Consultation on this proposal started on the 8th September 2007 with two clear options coming out in the final report. One was to refurbish the Guildbourne Centre and the other is complete redevelopment.
Following on from the report which promoted the idea of a new retail core on land to the south of Union Place and including the Guildbourne Centre, a detailed Development Brief has been prepared and adopted by the Council. The Brief encourages the comprehensive development of the site to significantly enhance the retail offer and help to re-establish the town as the regional shopping centre.
Any town centre re-development takes time to implement given the complexities around site assembly, planning and transport issues, however, the Council is committed to implementing this important project and it will be important that clear policies for the site are incorporated in the Council’s revised Core Strategy which is due to be published later this year.
Cultural and Civic Hub 2007
Prelimary options for this scheme are being explored further. Any development is dependent on financial viability and further detailed work is required. The Public Consultation which took place during September 2007 gauged public opinion on this development and at the moment, this is currently on hold until other major developments are bought forward.
Teville Gate
Although the Council has resolved that it would not be financially viable to lease a public swimming pool at Teville Gate, the developers are still keen to progress the redevelopment of the site. A revised planning application has now been submitted which seeks to retain a mixed use development on the site incorporating residential, retail and leisure uses (including a multi-plex cinema).
After the sudden and tragic death of Robert Walker, this shceme is still progressing, the developers are keen to work with the Core Strategy in terms of town centre boundaries, and are open to incorporating public art within the planning preoposals.
Teville Gate information can be found by visiting the The Teville Gateway link (opens in a new window)
