Pretty seaside town reveals £3million revamp with new central garden and kids playground to ‘transform' centre
The project will be inspired by early-19th century seaside gardens, and aims to breathe new life into the town centre, and attract more tourists.
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Montague Place, in Worthing, West Sussex, is set to be transformed into Montague Gardens, over the course of 12 to 15 months, with work having started this week.
A spokesperson for Worthing Borough Council said: "The emphasis is on increasing biodiversity with a green space that links the seafront to the nearby Liverpool Gardens."
Plans for the multi-million pound transformation, include a green living wall, a Worthing place sign, and a performance and sundeck area.
The tarmac in the square will be removed, and replaced with paving, and 30 new trees will be planted in the area.
A lawn area and sociable seating will also be created, to allow residents and visitors to relax and connect with each other.
More lighting will also be installed, to ensure the area is safer at night.
Cafes and restaurants will be given the opportunity to have outdoor seating, and a hospitality kiosk will be built, so that visitors can purchase refreshments whilst enjoying the gardens.
Children will also be able to enjoy a brand new playground, inspired by Worthing's seaside heritage.
The play-park will also feature information boards on kelp restoration, and tactile fixed play equipment, that will allow kids to use their information.
The £3.1 million project is being funded by £2.7 million from the council's Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) Strategic Fund and £400,000 of pooled business rates agreed with West Sussex County Council.
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'It's great news that work on Montague Gardens has started", said Councillor Rita Garner, Worthing's deputy leader and cabinet member for regeneration.
"This lively and attractive green space will revitalise the town centre, creating a welcoming and vibrant setting to meet in and relax for residents and visitors of all ages.'
Councillor Garry Wall, West Sussex County Council's cabinet member for economy and skills, added: 'I am looking forward to this excellent partnership project coming forward through the Growth Deal with Worthing Borough Council.
"This initiative will support Worthing town centre and the seafront economy.
"After extensive planning, all agreements are now in place and we are excited to move forward.'
Montague Gardens is the third regeneration project to begin in Worthing, following improvements to Portland Road, and ongoing construction works in Railway approach.
These projects are part of a wider regeneration plan for Worthing, as part of the Worthing Growth Deal.
This comes as another seaside town, Lowestoft, in Suffolk is set to get a brand new £6m waterfront revamp, including a two-storey restaurant and cafe area.
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