Traders have still to reach consensus on street design

Businesses are undecided over whether to get rid of the bandstand, and whether darker or lighter paving is the best option.

The bandstand’s removal has split opinion, with some saying its removal will ‘destroy the town’, while others believe it encourages the gathering of street drinkers.

Town centre manager Sharon Clarke said: “Fone World has stated that the Bandstand is needed, and if you destroy that, you destroy the town.

“River Island has noted the bandstand should go to discourage the street drinkers congregating, but seating areas in other parts of the town should be increased.

She added: “Thorntons support the removal of the bandstand, but feels a flower bed, or something similar, should replace it, as it is such a huge space.”

Some traders have yet to decide on the issue.

Paul O’Brien, owner of Candy Love, said: “I can see people’s point who think it is an iconic Worthing structure, but by removing it, you could open up the space for events and a bigger market.

“To knock it down and build a new one could be expensive, and I personally think that money should be spent on the paving.

“Then, we can start looking and other things.”

For the full story, see the Herald and Gazette, out Thursday, October 17.