Newly-Built Worthing Flats to Be Dismantled After Storm Damage

A newly-built block of flats in Worthing is being dismantled after it sustained significant storm damage during the winter of 2023/24, developers have confirmed. The affected building, part of a housing project in Fulbeck Avenue, was unable to be fully weatherproofed in time, leading to structural concerns.

BoKlok UK, a joint venture between Ikea and Swedish construction firm Skanska, is overseeing the development alongside Vivid Homes. A spokesperson for BoKlok stated that strong winds prevented the installation of the roof, causing damage that compromised the long-term safety of the structure. As a result, the decision was made to dismantle the building, with a focus on sustainability and recycling 95% of the materials.

The Worthing site consists of five blocks, with three already completed and occupied, while a fourth is nearing completion. The development, which includes affordable and shared ownership housing, was constructed using a modular system, with prefabricated units assembled on-site. Despite the setback, the project aims to deliver 72 homes in total, providing much-needed housing in the area.