WORTHING
NEWS
 
APRIL 2019

       
DOG FRIENDLY BUSINESSES !!
 
Our designers are currently working on the new Town Centre Pocket Guide and this will be ready in the next few weeks.

While working on this guide it was suggested  potential customers with furry friends struggle to know where they can take their dogs in Town.  To help make it easier we will be printing a flyer and providing stickers for businesses that welcome well behaved dogs.

There will be no cost to be included in this initiative we just need to know that you are a dog-friendly business.  Tanya, our Town Centre Ranger is collecting information on her travels but it takes a while to get around.  If she hasn't popped in to see you yet and you would like to be included please email [email protected] to let us know dogs are welcome.   All we need is your business name as well as any restrictions you have on dog access.

This will be totally free promotion for your business so don't miss out on the opportunity to encourage customers into your premises.

         
ROAD SPACE AUDIT
 
West Sussex County Council are currently undertaking a Road Space Audit which includes a review of the on-street parking in Worthing.

The Worthing Town Centre Initiative have raised concerns that businesses appear to have been overlooked in the audit process. We have written to the Councillor leading this process, along with the Leader of West Sussex County Council, highlighting the current issues affecting the Town Centre with an invitation to attend a meeting to discuss this further. 
 
We understand that the cost and the times charges apply on parking meters are being considered and we want to make it clear that businesses will not support higher parking charges and longer charging times.

We are working with the Worthing Hospitality Federation and other business led organisations to ensure the business voice is heard.  We will keep you updated.

     
WORTHING OBSERVATION WHEEL 
  
The Worthing Observation Wheel was approved by planners on 27th March and will be installed along the promenade near the millennium beacon for 9 months of the year over the next 3 years.  
This wheel will be the largest on the South Coast and will encourage visitors to Worthing.  We will be making contact with the operators to find ways to promote Town Centre businesses.
  
BUSINESS CRIME REDUCTION
     
Our Business Crime Co-ordinator Steve Burt had the opportunity to attend a review with representatives from the Home Office.  While this focused on violence and organised crime he was able to raise the issue of lenient sentencing by magistrates and the drug issues in town.

A Police Officer has now been assigned to investigate the overnight burglaries in the Town Centre and Steve is in regular contact to try and identify the perpetrator of these as quickly as possible. 

Please remember to report incidents and while this can be frustrating at times it ensures the Police are aware of the issues you are experiencing.  

 If you are not yet a member of the Business Crime Reduction Partnership and would like to find out more please contact Steve via email [email protected]. 
    
INDEPENDENTS DAY
MONTAGUE STREET
14th JULY 2019
 
Last year the Worthing Town Centre Initiative held its first Independents Day in Montague Street.  Although the weather was not with us the event was still a big success. 

Independents Day gives independent businesses the opportunity to trade in the highest footfall area of town for the day.  Those that took part in 2018 told us the event helped them to find new customers and raise awareness of their business.

We will be holding another Independents Day in 2019 on Sunday 14th July.  If you are an independent retailer please email [email protected] to book a space at the event.   Taking part will cost you nothing as the Town Centre Initiative fund the marquees, tables and musical entertainment. This is an opportunity not to be missed so book your space now.
    
PURPLE FLAG
 
Worthing Borough Council has applied for Purple Flag status to highlight a safe and thriving night-time economy.

The assessment for this will take place on Friday 5th April and evening businesses may see people walking about with clipboards.  During the review some businesses will receive a visit so the assessors can experience the diverse offer Worthing has.

The Worthing Town Centre Initiative
12 The Steyne
Worthing
West Sussex BN11 3DS

Telephone 01903 203252