The River Arun was a major asset of Littlehampton that had was unutilised and had become neglected. Derelict harbour wharves and disused storage yards dominated the East Bank area of Littlehampton prior to regeneration, that created a major barrier between the town centre, the harbour and the seafront. Arun District Council published a Development Brief in 1996 and a proposal led by Bellway Homes and David Wilson Homes was subsequently selected. The Council acquired the East Bank area in 1997 and pursued a regeneration scheme by working alongside a range of partners and partnership. One of these was Littlehampton 2000 which was formed in 1996 and involved representatives for all sectors. The redevelopment of the East Bank was one of their key projects and to which they agreed significant Single Regeneration Budget support.
The East Bank regeneration scheme was completed in 2003 which has transformed the area, creating a beautiful development comprising 170 homes, visitors centre with shop, restaurant and viewing tower, Youth Hostel, RNLI lifeboat station, Harbour Board offices, new town square and public riverside walkway. It is a new destination for both residents and visitors and has provided increased access to the riverfront and new public open space that successfully linked the town centre and the seafront.
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