Future of Worthing's Colonnade House in Doubt Amid Council Funding Issues

The future of Worthing’s Colonnade House, a key hub for the town’s creative community, faces uncertainty as the council searches for sustainable funding solutions.

Worthing Borough Council has expressed concerns about the financial future of Colonnade House, located on Warwick Street. The council, which transformed the historic building into an arts centre in 2016, has attributed the challenges to the ongoing cost-of-living crisis and significant cuts to central government grants. It is now calling on creatives, businesses, and potential partners to propose new funding ideas.

Councillor Dom Ford, cabinet member for communities, culture, and leisure, emphasised the importance of Colonnade House to Worthing’s creative community. “We are committed to working together with the community to find a way to ensure that it continues to thrive for years to come,” he said. The arts centre is currently managed by the Adur and Worthing Trust with financial support from the council.

To address the funding concerns, a public consultation is set to begin in January 2025. This initiative will aim to gather input from local creatives, businesses, and stakeholders on how to secure the long-term future of the arts centre, ensuring it remains a vital part of Worthing’s cultural landscape.