Teville Gate - A Chronicle of Transformation and Delay in Worthing
Teville Gate, a prominent 1.4-hectare site adjacent to Worthing’s main railway station, has long been a focal point of both ambition and frustration for the local community. Once a bustling complex of retail units, office spaces, and a multi-storey car park constructed in the late 1960s, the area gradually fell into disrepair, earning the moniker of Worthing’s “biggest eyesore.”
History
The name “Teville Gate” traces back to the early 19th century when a tollgate was established near the Teville Stream as part of the Worthing to West Grinstead turnpike. This gate was removed in 1823 following public protests.
In the 1960s, the area was developed into a commercial hub, but by the early 2000s, it had become dilapidated, prompting calls for redevelopment.
Redevelopment Efforts and Delays
Over the past two decades, Teville Gate has been the subject of multiple redevelopment proposals, many of which failed to materialise:
1998 Farrho Proposal: Envisioned replacing the multi-storey car park with a new cinema.
2006-2010 Hanson Proposal: A £150 million plan included over 200 flats in twin towers, a conference centre, hotel, multiplex cinema, and supermarket. Despite receiving planning permission in 2010, financial constraints led to its abandonment.
2015-2020 Mosaic and Hanson Proposals: Mosaic acquired the majority of the site in 2015, proposing “Station Square,” a £93 million development featuring 378 homes, a supermarket, an 83-bed hotel, gym, and retail spaces. Despite approvals, the project stalled.
Recent Developments
In a significant move to break the cycle of inactivity, Worthing Borough Council purchased the Teville Gate site in 2021 for £7 million, aiming to spearhead its regeneration. By March 2024, the Council agreed to sell the site to Homes England for £5.1 million. Homes England plans to develop approximately 250 homes, focusing on sustainable design with well-integrated open spaces and improved pedestrian and cycling infrastructure.
To prevent further stagnation, Homes England has leased the site back to the Council during the planning phase, allowing for temporary community uses and events. This interim strategy aims to revitalise the area and maintain public engagement while detailed plans are finalised.
Why has the site development been delayed
Several factors have contributed to the prolonged delays in redeveloping Teville Gate:
Financial Constraints: Economic downturns and funding challenges have repeatedly hindered large-scale investments.
Planning and Approval Complexities: Navigating the planning process for such a prominent site involves extensive consultations and regulatory approvals, often leading to protracted timelines.
Ownership Changes: Transitions in ownership and differing visions for the site’s future have led to inconsistencies in development plans.
Looking Forward
The partnership between Worthing Borough Council and Homes England marks a renewed commitment to transforming Teville Gate into a vibrant community asset. While challenges persist, it is hoped that these collaborative approaches will to deliver a development that meets local needs and revitalises this key area of Worthing.
As plans progress, continued community engagement and transparent communication will be vital in ensuring the successful realisation of Teville Gate’s long-awaited transformation.