WORK to "breathe new life" into a major street in a town centre is well underway.

The project to transform Worthing’s Portland Road into a "vibrant shopping and hospitality destination" is in full swing, with new lighting, paving and seating already installed.

The space between Montague Street and Shelley Road will be pedestrianised in order to encourage people into the town centre, to support local businesses, and create a connection to Montague Street and beyond.

Construction on the project, being managed by Worthing Borough Council, began in June - and much of the work has now been done on the western side of the road.

Along with high-quality street lighting, paved granite kerbs and new benches have been installed.

Free ultrafast public Wifi, better lighting, comfortable seating areas, cycle racks and landscape planting all form part of the proposals, which are designed to encourage people into the town centre and support local businesses.

The remaining vacant units on the street are now under offer - meaning four new businesses will soon be setting up shop.

Councillor Kevin Jenkins, Worthing’s executive member for regeneration, said: “It’s fantastic to see already, local investment from businesses as a direct result of this public realm project, which is funded by West Sussex County Council and the Coast to Capital Enterprise Partnership.

The Argus: It is hoped Portland Road will become a vibrant shopping district It is hoped Portland Road will become a vibrant shopping district

“This month, footway works will continue on the western side of Portland Road and gradually completed areas will be opened up for use by the public.

“Contractors Landbuild Ltd will then move on to the eastern side, from the junction with Shelley Road, and work their way south.

“I’d like to thank the businesses of Portland Road for their continued support, help and understanding as the team progresses with the scheme.”

This is the first initiative to be delivered as part of the Growth Deal, a joint-project with West Sussex County Council which sets out plans to rejuvenate eight public realm spaces from the train station to the seafront in Worthing.

Portland Road is being delivered in phases, to allow access to the businesses on the street, and so pedestrians can move around safely during the construction phase.

It’s anticipated the work will be complete by Spring next year.