Worthing traders demand urgent action over town centre disruption

Worthing traders have drawn up a list of urgent demands in response to continuing disruption caused by roadworks and car park closures in the town centre.

The ongoing Worthing Heat Network project, coupled with the indefinite closure of the Grafton car park and the upcoming two-week shutdown of the High Street multi-storey, has raised concerns about declining footfall and safety.

The Worthing Small Traders group has criticised the impact of the works, particularly on businesses in the Guildbourne Centre, Chapel Road and surrounding areas. In a meeting on 2 June, traders called for an urgent ‘town centre walkabout’, a detailed works schedule from heat network contractor Hemiko, and mitigation plans from Worthing Borough Council. The group also proposed temporary shuttle buses from nearby areas and wider promotional campaigns to offset the disruption.

In response, the council announced efforts to open up parts of the Teville Gate site for short-term parking and delayed the start of Montague Place improvements until after the High Street car park reopens. Hemiko, meanwhile, stated it is working closely with local authorities to minimise disruption and complete the low-carbon heating project as quickly as possible.