Montague Gardens opens in Worthing after major town centre transformation
A new green space designed to transform a key part of Worthing town centre has officially opened.
People gathered at Montague Gardens, on Saturday (September 5), to celebrate the completion of a council-led regeneration project.
In an update shared this week, Worthing Borough Council said: “More trees, shrubs and flowers have been planted at Montague Gardens, as we continue work to finish the new town centre open space.
“The first plants that will form the green living wall are also in the ground, and will grow to cover the metal structure behind the stage area over time.”
A 3D ‘Worthing’ place sign was also installed on the stage area in July before being quickly concealed ahead of the ‘official unveiling’, at Montague Place.
The local authority explained: “The vibrant design for the place sign was created by artist Molly Hawkins and was inspired by local residents who attended one of her collage-making workshops at three Worthing venues.”
The family-friendly opening event – which ran from midday until 3pm – featured live performances from Spring into Soul Choir, Drumheads Samba Band, AudioActive and The Salvation Army.
The space has been transformed with new planting, trees, seating, a play area and a stage and entertainment area, with the project designed to create a greener and more welcoming connection between Worthing town centre and the seafront.
Work on the project began in summer 2025 and was carried out in phases.
The plans were developed following input from residents, access groups, businesses and community groups.
Montague Gardens forms part of the public realm regeneration programme within the Worthing Growth Deal, a partnership between Adur & Worthing Councils and West Sussex County Council.
The project builds on earlier changes to Montague Place, where initial redevelopment work began in 2022 with temporary surfacing to make the area car-free, alongside new seating and sustainable planting.
The space subsequently became a popular place for residents and visitors to relax and watch outdoor performances during the Worthing Festival.
The new design takes inspiration from the seaside gardens that existed around Montague Place when it was first built in the early 19th century.
Up to 30 new trees have been included alongside sustainable planting, while a green wall has been added to the large wall in the north-eastern corner of the site.
There is also a bespoke children's play area inspired by sea kelp restoration in Sussex, as well as space for outdoor dining.
The council said the project aims to increase biodiversity while providing shelter from the sun and wind and improving accessibility.