Council buys former offices of newspaper in centre of Worthing

The newspaper moved out of Cannon House last year and relocated a few doors down to The Mill Building also in Chatsworth Road.

The now empty four-storey detached office property is the latest strategic investment by Worthing Borough Council.

The acquisition has been made to generate a revenue return as well as promoting economic growth and inward investment in the town.

It also safeguards office employment accommodation in the town centre from residential redevelopment and conversion.

There are also strategic opportunities to link up with the Union Place redevelopment to the north.

Up to £400,000 is being budgeted for Cannon House’s refurbishment, taking the project’s total cost to £1.78million.

This work would include removing the existing suspended ceiling to expose the concrete slab and frame, wall mounted perimeter fan coil air conditioning units, a fully raised access floor system, LED suspended lighting, refurbished toilets and stairwell core, remodelled reception area, shower facilities and bike storage as well as EV charging points, roof mounted solar panels and other energy efficiency measures subject to viability.

The council has already engaged an architectural firm to advise on design, specification and finishes to ensure it meets the needs of potential occupants and also appeals to a wide range of tenant sectors.

It would also seek to identify an occupier during the construction period.

An officers’ report says: “By seeking to deliver the refurbishment, the council can deliver much needed high quality office space with the objective of setting a new standard for office accommodation in the town and an improved rental tone.

“The ambition is that the project will help kick start a renaissance in the sector locally and encourage private sector investment into office refurbishment projects, and new build office developments, due to improved viability and confidence.”

A supply shortage of good quality offices has been identified within the town. There is currently only a single conventional leased option available which can accommodate a business above 30 staff.

Officers suggest this means existing occupiers wanting to relocate but stay in Worthing are unable to find suitable options or are limited to existing poorer quality properties with little room for growth.