Contract awarded for Worthing children’s home remodelling work

A £1.7m contract has been awarded for remodelling work at one of West Sussex County Council’s children’s home.
Cissbury Lodge in WorthingCissbury Lodge in Worthing
Cissbury Lodge in Worthing

Cissbury Lodge, a home in Worthing for children with severe learning disabilities, was one of three homes/secure units closed by the council in 2018 after Ofsted found ‘serious and widespread failures’ at a fourth.

The plan is to reopen the home after remodelling and refurbishment work has been carried out – a task given to  Westridge Construction.

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Based in East Sussex, Westridge has worked with the council before on projects including the new teaching block at Downlands School, Hassocks, and the west wing extension at Plumpton College.

The contract was awarded by Lucy Butler, executive director for children, young people and learning, and is for £1,727,644.50 – well within the £3.15m allocated for the project.

Ms Butler’s decision will come into effect from July 9 if councillors have no concerns.

As well as the remodelling, the operation of Cissbury Lodge – the way it is run and the services it offers – will also change before the home reopens. 

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This will include enhanced short breaks for four children at a time, residential services for six children, and an outreach service offering support to children and families in the home or community.

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