Work to transform a town’s esplanade will start next week.

Improvements to Bognor’s esplanade to make it a “top destination” will start on Monday, November 4, and will extend from Lennox Street to Clarence Road.

Upgrades include new pedestrian crossings, a walkway connecting on-street parking with the sea wall and traffic-calming measures such as a reduction of the speed limit to 20mph.

The esplanade will be bordered by rain gardens and there will be more seating.

West Sussex County Council hopes that together with the completed Place St Maur improvement scheme and renovations of the Alexandra Theatre and the Bognor Regis arcade, the esplanade’s revamp will enhance the look and feel of the seafront and link it to the town centre.

The council allocated £1.369 million of capital funds to the delivery of the scheme, which will complement adjacent projects funded by the Levelling Up Fund and Local Enterprise Partnership.

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Councillor Steve Waight, cabinet member for support services and economic development, spoke of his excitement at the project.

 “This project marks a significant step in making Bognor Regis a top destination for visitors looking to explore everything the town has to offer while regenerating the seafront for residents,” he said.

“The work is part of the wider Arun Growth Deal and supports the priorities in ‘Our Council Plan’ of creating a sustainable and prosperous economy which cements the county council’s commitment with Arun District Council’s to support Bognor Regis.

“It builds on other recent local developments, such as the recently completed Place St Maur improvement scheme, and planned enhancements at Alexandra Theatre and the Arcade.”

Construction will be carried out by Landbuild Ltd between 7.30am and 5.30pm, or until it becomes dark, and is expected to finish by April 2025.

Some traffic management and temporary parking restrictions will be in place to ensure safety during the works. Advance notice will be provided for any road closures needed to expedite construction, particularly around the junction of The Esplanade and Clarence Road.