The Worthing Development Forum has been created by a partnership consisting of Worthing Borough Council, Worthing & Adur Chamber of Commerce, architecture company Pollard Thomas Edwards and specialist emergency housing provider Base One.

Key themes such as climate, economy, resources and collaboration will be discussed by the group, as the Council looks to support local businesses and help the sector bring forward developments which are appropriate for the town.

The forum has grown from the Worthing Housing Conference, which took place earlier this year in an innovative move to accelerate the town’s plans of delivering sustainable and accessible housing.

Key leaders from property development companies, housing associations, architects, charities and consultancy firms attended the town’s successful conference, which was run by the Council.

‘Responsible Development' is the focus for the first event, which will look into how the town can protect its historic environment and green spaces while still approving vibrant schemes and achieving its housing and development targets.

Cllr Caroline Baxter, Worthing’s Cabinet Member for Regeneration, said: “Following our housing conference, it’s great we’ve been able to build connections with experts across the region and introduce a forum which will help local stakeholders network and collaborate on future projects.

“I’m excited to understand how we can work together to find solutions to the barriers that are affecting developers and businesses in the area.”

The forum’s 50-plus members hope to meet the Council’s officers and members a handful of times each year.

Tracie Davey, CEO of Worthing & Adur Chamber of Commerce, said: “The forum will be a space for local construction and development professionals to meet, share best practice and shape the developments in our town.

“As the local Chamber, we firmly believe that businesses are stronger together and we are incredibly passionate about facilitating these conversations to support businesses in their journeys to success. 

“This will provide a great opportunity to bring our members and the wider business community together to connect and get involved in the local area.”

The Council hopes the group can contribute to the development of the town’s local plan and respond to community needs to help shape Worthing for the better.