Worthing Council's £3 Million Revamp Sparks Outrage Over 15-Foot Crossing Relocation
Plans to move a pedestrian crossing a mere 15 feet as part of Worthing Borough Council's £3 million town centre regeneration project have been labelled 'ridiculous' and a 'waste of money' by frustrated locals. The controversial decision involves relocating the crossing on Marine Parade to the opposite side of the road's junction with Montague Place, with the council claiming it will create 'one flat route to the sea from the town centre'.
Council's Justification for the Move
The relocation is a component of the broader £3 million Montague Gardens transformation initiative, which aims to convert Montague Place into a new, more accessible green space. According to council statements, the adjustment will enable pedestrians to 'walk directly through Liverpool Gardens and Montague Gardens to the seafront without having to divert right to cross the road at Marine Parade'. The new crossing has already been installed, but the original one remains in place, resulting in two crossings positioned just a few strides apart on the same road.
Local Residents Voice Strong Opposition
Residents of the seaside town have expressed vehement disapproval, arguing that the funds allocated for this move could have been better utilised elsewhere. Liam Hicks described the project as 'ridiculous', while Annabel Hilson remarked, 'Bit of a waste of money, moving an existing crossing.' Colin Wakefield, a regular user of the original crossing, stated that it 'is fine' and called the relocation 'strange', suggesting the council should have invested the money in 'doing up the seafront' instead.
Mick Curtis echoed these sentiments, questioning the cost-effectiveness: 'The issue is the cost versus the gain. Is it really too much to deviate by a few yards and use the original crossing? I've driven that road for nearly 50 years, it won't improve anything. So many more things they could spend the money on.'
Project Details and Timeline
In January, the council disclosed that relocating the crossing would take nine weeks, including the removal of the original structure. The overall Montague Gardens project, which features a play area and is designed to enhance safety for children and disabled individuals, is scheduled for completion by summer this year. A report from the council's joint strategic committee meeting on March 6 indicated that development work is progressing well.
Mixed Reactions and Funding Sources
Despite widespread criticism, some locals see merit in the move. Sarah Maskell commented, 'As Montague Gardens will incorporate leisure areas and a children's play area, it is probably important to have a safe crossing area directly linking the gardens with the promenade.' The scheme is financed by £2.7 million from the council's Community Infrastructure Levy strategic fund and £400,000 of pooled business rates agreed with West Sussex County Council. Worthing Borough Council has been approached for further comment on the matter.
