Centre Of Regeneration Plans

But more than just providing a financial shot in the arm, the money has been helping to rebuild run-down parts of the town, boost deprived neighbourhoods and support schools and businesses.

At grassroots level, successful initiatives include new children's groups, parenting courses, meeting places for people with mental illnesses, after-school clubs and even new uniforms for a girls' pom-pom troupe.

On the bigger scale, the emphasis has been on linking the seaside, river and town centre through the East Bank regeneration project.

This multi-million pound scheme, delayed by controversy and court challenges brought by objectors against the housing, leisure and tourism development, is at last forging ahead.

At the heart of the scheme, and crucial in the overall aim of reviving the town, is the Littlehampton Visitor Centre, now taking shape next to Fisherman's Hard.

It will house an educational exhibition/field studies centre focusing on Littlehampton's maritime heritage and the wildlife of the river, sea and sand dunes, together with a youth hostel taking up most of the first floor.

The centre will be a landmark building, with an observation tower giving spectacular views of the River Arun, the sea, harbour area and the Downs.

Due to open at Easter next year, the centre will be run by a group of trustees chosen for their expertise in key areas such as education, tourism, publicity, regeneration and conservation.

Other elements of the East Bank development include more than 80 new homes, a pub/restaurant and a riverside walkway giving the public access to what used to be private, waterfront land.

Arun District Council and Bellway Homes are partners in the East Bank scheme, but it has also had funding from the Littlehampton 2000 group towards the visitor centre and other public areas.