A major obstacle to the redevelopment of Worthing's derelict Teville Gate shopping precinct may soon be removed.

We have been told that Comet wants to pull out of Teville Gate as soon as possible, paving the way for the demolition of boarded-up shops.

Comet is the last major store in the eyesore complex, which is plagued by vandals, muggers, drunks, drug addicts and arsonists.

But there are still problems over the relocation of three smaller shops - Teville Pharmacy, Flemings burger kiosk and an audio hi-fi business.

Council officials had been told that Comet could be moving as early as next month but today a spokesman for the electrical goods store said: "We are going to move, but not in February. We are currently assessing other locations."

Councillor Chris Sargent, chairman of Worthing Borough Council's economic development committee, is meeting with site owner Farrho later this month to discuss the future of Teville Gate.

Mike Bleakley, the council's planning spokesman, said: "We have heard a rumour that Comet might be moving. They are very keen to relocate."

Keith Walker, who runs Teville Pharmacy, said: "We are still trying to find somewhere else suitable locally. We haven't so far and that's the problem.

"When we do, and the terms are acceptable, we shall move. We certainly don't want to hold up the redevelopment."

Mr Bleakley said: "I cannot say definitely that something is going to happen in 2003 but I certainly hope it will.

"It is not just an eyesore, there are all the social problems associated with it as well. It is one of our biggest priorities this year to get something done on that site but people must not underestimate the difficulties.

"We have got to be realistic. Demolition is possible this year but it is premature to say it is going to happen."

Coun Sargent still hopes a cinema complex can be built. He has not ruled out the possibility of the shops being demolished to make way for a temporary car park to replace the seafront Warnes Hotel site car park, which has closed.

He said: "It may be better to demolish what is there and use it as a temporary car park but I certainly don't see that as a long-term solution as it would be a terrible waste.

"I am still pursuing the cinema option but unfortunately I don't have a magic wand. We want something that is a credit to the town."

Mr Bleakley said: "Something has got to happen with that site and the sooner the better.

"Leisure is not strong at the moment so retail warehousing and possibly some housing are options we are going to have to look at."