Worth the wait

It was officers who, apparently without reference to a single councillor, instructed Arun’s consultants over St Martin’s car-park development ‘not to include a cinema offer on the site’, in spite of that being councillors’ instructions and clear promise to residents! That is totally unacceptable, and must be reversed immediately!

However, he is wide of the mark over the Stage-by-the-Sea taking shape at Banjo Road/The Green, Littlehampton. He really should not judge a building by its foundations and steel work, but wait until the whole structure is completed.

It will be a gently curving, sprayed concrete Portland stone-effect stage area, accommodating not 15, but with stage extension up to 30 players, facing Banjo Road and The Green, to showcase music, dance, etc., to audiences of 200-500. It will be landscaped, with sloping grass in front, and single hedges to the sides, and the seafront side will be a small sitting area within a smaller shell.

It is a modern attempt to recreate a bandstand that once stood there, but with a more performer-friendly structure and greater audience capability. I believe that it will enhance Littlehampton seafront still further for residents and visitors.

As chairman of the design, selection and project group, I am happy for it be judged when completed and in use next year! If he doesn’t then like it and the live music there, I will willingly buy him a pint or two of his favourite ale!

Dr James Walsh, councillor for Littlehampton East and Beach

The Street

Rustington