Owned by Worthing Borough Council, the area is undergoing a £60,000 radical revamp which is aimed at saving money on maintenance in the long term.

So far, however, the scheme has failed to impress the people who have to overlook it each day — even though the work is still in its early stages.

The nine upright stakes, in groups of three, have given rise to the term Execution Point, and they are surrounded by areas of withering grass.

Elsewhere along the long garden frontage, six semi kidney-shaped hard-standings, each with a bench seat, are being installed, and there will be various replacement plantings.

But those beautiful flower beds of yesteryear are still remembered fondly by Heene Terrace residents.

"Now, it's all a monstrosity," said Dennis Paice, aged 60.

"It is not in keeping with the Georgian-style buildings. And as for those stakes, all you need is a firing squad!

"Most people in the terrace think it is an absolute disgrace. In the long term, it is a backward step for Worthing. But I'll reserve my final judgment until it's completed."
Fellow neighbour Lionel Warren said: "I think it is a tragedy that the old gardens have been destroyed. Those floral beds were a major attraction which helped bring visitors to Worthing."
Chris Bradley, the council's parks and foreshore manager, said the three sets of three wooden posts would be filled with stones to form a stone/wood sculpture. The former grassed areas, which had been treated with weed-killer, would be re-turfed, and other plantings would include bedding-plant areas to bring "splashes of colour" to the area.
"I have told residents to give it a chance, and they might appreciate it in the end," said Mr Bradley. "It is all about being patient.
"Once the planting is established, the gardens will need less watering than the previous floral beds required, and will save the council money over time."