Organisations invited to reimagine Worthing seafront landmark

Organisations are being invited to put forward proposals to regenerate the West Buildings Shelter on Worthing promenade, with the council seeking new and imaginative uses for the prominent seafront site.

The locally listed heritage asset, around 500 metres west of Worthing Pier, could be retained and repurposed or replaced with a new building sensitive to the site’s design, scale and history. Previous plans for a restaurant did not progress, while the shelter’s exterior is currently used by Colonnade House to display artwork by local creatives. The opportunity is part of wider efforts to attract investment and bring underused sites in Worthing back into use.

Worthing Borough Council leader Councillor Caroline Baxter said the shelter had significant potential to offer more to residents and visitors. Opening the site to expressions of interest does not commit the council to progressing a proposal.

First-round submissions are being accepted until Sunday 20 September 2026, with a preferred proposal expected to be selected later this year.