Seafront shelters could become landmark leisure facilities

Worthing Borough Council is offering the shelters, opposite West Buildings and Steyne Gardens, for development.

The former has the potential to be extended into a high-end restaurant, a council spokesman said.

Head of place and investment Lynda Dine said: “We believe this is a great opportunity to move the seafront forward, offering something different.

“We hope to attract some really creative bids.”

Planning permission was granted in 2007 for an 84-seat restaurant at the West Buildings site but the presence of a major sewer running along the promenade contributed to the scheme not going ahead.

Talks with Southern Water have since confirmed the possibility of connecting the site to the main sewer.

Any bids to extend the property will need to be mindful of the heritage value of the shelters, the council insisted.

Cabinet member for regeneration councillor Kevin Jenkins said: “These shelters are prime positions for developers to capitalise on the growing reputation of our seafront as a premier destination of choice.

“We want something that will inspire residents, the increasing number of newcomers we are seeing moving here and visitors alike.”

Bids are now being invited. For more information, visit www.adur-worthing.gov.uk/shelters