New gateway for Shoreham Beach opens just in time for summer

Visitors to Shoreham Beach will get a fresh new welcome this summer as Adur District Council's work to redevelop a major gateway nears completion.

Plans have been afoot to regenerate the area to the south of the £11.5 million Adur Ferry Bridge since it opened in 2013.

After much input from community groups, partner organisations and West Sussex County Council, teams from Adur began work on the Riverside car park site last year.

In just a few months the area in Lower Beach Road has been transformed - and, with summer just around the corner, the revamped car park and walkway is now complete and open to all.

Councillor Emma Evans, Adur District Council's lead member for environment, said: "Having lived in the town for many years I know how special and unique Shoreham Beach is.

"This redeveloped gateway gives people yet another reason to visit, which is great news, not only for those who live and work on the beach, but for the tens of thousands of people who flock here from all over on foot, bikes and in cars.

"This is yet another example of how as a council we can provide a platform to boost business and tourism while celebrating and protecting our unique environment."

The £650,000 plans were first drawn up and went out to public consultation in 2012.

The aim was to create a more welcoming entrance to the beach for pedestrians and cyclists who cross the bridge from the town centre, while improving the existing car park.

New benches overlooking the river have also been installed as part of the project.

With much of the building work now complete, teams from Adur & Worthing councils parks team have been planting a variety of trees and shrubs.

Council contractors will then stop to allow the Environment Agency to complete parts of the on-going £25 million tidal walls scheme.

But those representing the area were delighted the area had become functional in time for the summer.

Joss Loader, Marine ward councillor and Chair of Shoreham Beach Residents' Association, said: "It's excellent news that the bulk of the project has been completed in time for the busy Spring and Summer months and we've had some very positive feedback from local people.

"This area is the main gateway to the beach for pedestrians and cyclists and it now creates an attractive, welcoming area that does our community proud.  The car park and public realm have been vastly improved - and the riverside seating area plus the new trees and shrubs have given the area a huge boost.

"Our thanks to the contractors, who have worked hard to keep disruption to a minimum and to the Ferry Road traders who have been extremely understanding and patient."

The car park will be open 24 hours a day with charges in place between 9am and 6pm.

Tariffs start from 50p for 30 minutes to £2.50 to four hours and £4 all day.

For more details on the project visit this page.