The organisation responsible for promoting and improving Worthing town centre has defended its decision not to spend levy funds on repairing ageing bus shelters, following public criticism over their condition.

The Worthing Town Centre Business Improvement District (BID) said it recognised residents' concerns but stressed that the maintenance and replacement of bus shelters is not one of its responsibilities.

The BID is a business-led organisation funded by local businesses to support projects, that improve the town centre environment and economy.

It had previously funded the repainting of several shelters as a one-off improvement project but that ongoing maintenance had never formed part of its business plan.

The organisation responsible for promoting and improving Worthing town centre has defended its decision not to spend levy funds on repairing ageing bus shelters, following public criticism over their condition. Photo: Eddie Mitchell

placeholder image — The organisation responsible for promoting and improving Worthing town centre has defended its decision not to spend levy funds on repairing ageing bus shelters, following public criticism over their condition. Photo: Eddie Mitchell

"We are aware of comments regarding the condition of some bus shelters within the town centre," the statement, on Facebook, read.

"The ongoing maintenance, repair and replacement of bus shelters is not a responsibility of the BID and is not included within our business plan."

According to the BID, many of the shelters now require major repair work rather than simple cosmetic improvements.

The organisation said it had been advised that West Sussex County Council is planning a future replacement programme for the shelters, although no timetable has yet been confirmed.

"As a result, it would not be a responsible use of BID levy funds to invest in repainting infrastructure that could potentially be removed in the near future," the statement added.

The BID argued that, with businesses facing difficult trading conditions, it must focus spending on priorities identified by levy-paying businesses.

"There has been a significant focus on the BID in relation to this issue," the social media post continued.

"At a time when businesses are facing increasing pressures, costs continue to rise and some businesses are sadly closing, we have a responsibility to spend levy payers' money carefully and focus on the priorities that businesses have asked us to deliver."

Instead, the BID highlighted a range of ongoing projects, including planting schemes, public art initiatives, town centre clean-up programmes, a new jet-washing service and dedicated staff focused on maintaining the appearance of the town centre.

These activities align with the BID's objectives to improve the visual appeal of Worthing and support local businesses.

The statement concluded by pledging continued cooperation with partner organisations and promising to provide further updates as more information becomes available.