Breaking news: Roffey seafront tower appeal dismissed

A Government inspector has today dismissed plans for an 11-storey seafront development.
An artist's impression of Roffey's proposalsAn artist's impression of Roffey's proposals
An artist's impression of Roffey's proposals

Roffey Homes’ plans for land on the corner of West Parade and Grand Avenue was refused planning permission last year.

An appeal, heard last month, saw residents and Worthing Borough Council argue against the development.

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Inspector John Gray, in a ruling published today, dismissed the appeal.

Residents gather for the opening day of Roffey Homes' appeal for land on the corner of Grand Avenue and West Parade SUS-160604-081958001Residents gather for the opening day of Roffey Homes' appeal for land on the corner of Grand Avenue and West Parade SUS-160604-081958001
Residents gather for the opening day of Roffey Homes' appeal for land on the corner of Grand Avenue and West Parade SUS-160604-081958001

He wrote: “The proposed development would be inappropriate in design terms because of a combination of its siting (forward of the building lines on West Parade and Grand Avenue), height (significantly taller than its neighbours) and massing (in relation to both Regis Court and the dwellings on Grand Avenue).”

The inquiry focused on objections to the building’s design and its impact on neighbouring properties.

Mr Gray, who also chaired an inquiry into the Shard, in London, addressed each concern in his conclusions.

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Residents, along with the council and Worthing West MP Sir Peter Bottomley had argued the proposals broke historic building lines and should not be allowed.

Residents gather for the opening day of Roffey Homes' appeal for land on the corner of Grand Avenue and West Parade SUS-160604-081958001Residents gather for the opening day of Roffey Homes' appeal for land on the corner of Grand Avenue and West Parade SUS-160604-081958001
Residents gather for the opening day of Roffey Homes' appeal for land on the corner of Grand Avenue and West Parade SUS-160604-081958001

Mr Gray said there ‘could be some merit’ in stepping forward towards landmark building Marine Point – but there was less of an argument for Grand Avenue.

He said the development, 11 storeys at its highest, would be ‘disproportionately taller’ than its surroundings – an effect made worse by its positioning beyond the building line.

He added it would have a ‘seriously overbearing impact’ on Six Grand Avenue and ‘unacceptably diminish the level of amenity’ enjoyed by the occupants. Roffey managing director Ben Cheal said he was disappointed by the decision but would review the full appeal decision before commenting further.

The Protect Worthing Seafront group, which campaigned against the development, has also been contacted for comment.