The future of Worthing is to be shaped by a new document, with the first opportunity to feedback beginning on Wednesday when a six week “Issues and Options” consultation opens.

Looking ahead to 2033, the Worthing Local Plan will set out opportunities for where and what development could take place over the next 17 years. When adopted, the new Plan will replace the Borough’s existing local planning policies and will be an important consideration in deciding planning applications.

From 11th May until 22nd June 2016, feedback on this first stage of the Local Plan can be made online at www.adur-worthing.gov.uk. There will also be hard copies to read at the Council offices and libraries in Worthing.

This public consultation identifies the challenges facing the Borough, and which options could help address them. Therefore, Worthing Borough Council is asking for views on how best to balance the delivery of growth and regeneration across the Borough, to meet future needs whilst at the same time protecting the things that so many residents and businesses value about the town.

Cllr Bryan Turner, Executive Member for Regeneration at Worthing Borough Council, said:

“Worthing is a great place is live and work, recently making the national press as one of the most desirable in the country. It is important to ensure that we plan for appropriate growth and development which maintains this reputation for the town.

“We would like to invite as many people as possible to provide feedback on the issues identified in this consultation document, so that our vision for the future reflects the views of those living in Worthing.”

After the six week consultation, all comments will be given consideration to help inform future decisions on which sites will be proposed for allocation and which policies will be included in the emerging Local Plan.