Adur District Council Criticised Over Sale of Former Lancing Police Station

Adur District Council has faced criticism over its decision to sell the former Lancing police station, with concerns that the site will not be used for much-needed social housing. The Liberal Democrats argue that the sale lacks transparency and have called for public scrutiny of the decision.

The council purchased the North Road site in 2021 and converted it into a community workspace named Fabric, in collaboration with office provider Freedom Works. The facility offered workspaces, meeting rooms, and event space for local groups and businesses. However, the council has now decided to sell the site, citing high maintenance and security costs of around £2,000 per week for the empty building.

Liberal Democrat spokesperson John Robinson accused the Labour-led administration of neglecting its social responsibility, arguing that private development on the site would fail to address Lancing’s urgent housing needs.

Labour leader of Adur District Council, Councillor Jeremy Gardner, defended the decision, attributing financial constraints to the previous Conservative administration. He stated that the council is unable to access Homes England funding due to past failures in maintaining social housing stock.

Meanwhile, Conservative Councillor Neil Parkin agreed with the Liberal Democrats, dismissing Labour’s response as an attempt to deflect blame. The site remains on the market, with its future use yet to be determined.