The closure of the Grafton car park on Worthing seafront has sparked significant public discontent, particularly from local residents like John Hill, a 74-year-old from Sompting. Following reports of “falling concrete” and the building’s ageing state—having been constructed over sixty years ago—the Worthing Borough Council deemed it necessary to conduct an urgent investigation. However, Mr Hill’s concerns extend beyond structural integrity; he is frustrated by the fact that the car park’s lights remain on despite its closure, leading him to describe the situation as reminiscent of the “Blackpool illuminations.”

Mr Hill’s critique highlights a broader issue regarding fiscal responsibility in local governance. He pointedly remarked, “With all the cutbacks the council is having to make at the minute, it’s an absolute disgrace.” The council is reportedly facing ongoing budget constraints, which has heightened scrutiny over expenditures, particularly unnecessary utilities like the lighting that Mr Hill believes could be costing the council thousands of pounds. Such concerns are emblematic of a wider discontent among residents, who often see local councils grappling with budget reductions while simultaneously funding projects that appear non-essential.

In a bid to revitalise the area and address the growing concerns surrounding the aging structure, Worthing Borough Council has announced plans to redevelop the Grafton car park site. According to the council’s proposals, the site, which spans roughly the area of a football pitch and includes not only the car park but also nearby shops and a bowling alley, is set for transformation into approximately 150 new homes, alongside commercial units and leisure facilities. This initiative aims not only to remove what has been described as an “eyesore” but also to create a vibrant community hub that links Montague Street to the seafront, thus enhancing the overall aesthetic and utility of the area.

Moreover, the council has expressed its determination to engage with the community throughout the redevelopment process to ensure that the project meets local needs. As part of this initiative, they are actively seeking a development partner. The proposed demolition of the Grafton car park has moved closer to fruition, with plans to market the site for sale commencing in January 2024. This shift is seen as critical to supporting the ongoing regeneration of the seafront and addressing the underutilisation of the car park, which, according to reports, only sees about a quarter of its 440 spaces occupied on average.

In the context of local governance, the Grafton car park saga serves as a microcosm of broader urban development challenges faced by towns grappling with ageing infrastructure and the pressing need for modernised facilities. While the council aims to take decisive steps towards revitalising Worthing’s waterfront, the immediate concerns of residents like Mr Hill underline the complexities of balancing financial accountability with community satisfaction and urban regeneration.

Reference Map:

Source: Noah Wire Services