Expressions of interest sought to shape the future of one of Worthing’s most iconic landmarks

An expression of interest process has been launched by Worthing Borough Council for the lease of Colonnade House, as its ten-year partnership with the Adur & Worthing Trust comes to an end.

The council is particularly interested in proposals that expand the variety of art forms represented in Worthing, retain an inviting high street presence, involve residents from all backgrounds and demonstrate long-term financial viability.

Dom Ford, cabinet member for communities, culture and leisure, said: “Colonnade House is extremely important to the local creative community here in Worthing, which is testament to the great partnership with the Adur & Worthing Trust over the last ten years.

“We want to ensure that it continues to act as a space where local talent is developed and showcased, the community feels welcome, and economic growth is boosted.”

Colonnade House, dating back to the early 1800s, is owned by Worthing Borough Council and it was transformed following a successful application to the Coastal Community Fund in 2014.

The council partnered with the charity Adur & Worthing Trust in 2016 and Colonnade House has been jointly managed since then to advance arts, culture and heritage for the public benefit.

It is now a multi-purpose venue providing affordable workspaces for the creative community and galleries that showcase the work of local, regional and national artists.

Earlier this month, the 10th anniversary was marked with an alumni exhibition of artworks from ten artists representing each year.

The council says the trust’s lease expires in March 2027 and it has a legal duty to undertake an open and transparent tendering process for the new lease to commence in April 2027.

The aim is to sustain Colonnade House’s success at bringing creatives and the community together and support growth for the next ten years and beyond.

The building includes a ground-floor exhibition space and three floors of creative workspace, divided into ten unique studio spaces. There is also a new multi-purpose workshop area being developed next door, in High Street.

Imaginative proposals are sought to manage one, two, or all three of the distinct components of Colonnade House. Each area can be operated as its own entity or collectively, as each has its own entrance, but all expressions of interest must include the use and management of the ground-floor gallery space.

Expressions of interest to take on the next lease are open until Monday, November 30. Organisations can find out more and submit their proposals at www.adur-worthing.gov.uk/estates/properties-and-land-available-to-buy-or-let

The council says its goal is to ensure Colonnade House remains a thriving, creative heart for Worthing, a space where talent is actively nurtured, economic growth is stimulated, and the community is always welcome.