VOTE: How £14million could change the face of Littlehampton

Next year, the Environment Agency’s (EA) £13million flood defences project, on the town’s East Bank, will start, and the first pictures of what a £1million “enhancement scheme” could do for Pier Road and Arun Parade have been released.

Funded by Arun District Council and designed by LDA Designs, the company behind London’s Olympic Park, the scheme will go out to public consultation next week.

Roger Elkins, deputy leader of Arun, and cabinet member for housing, community care and coast protection, said: “As part of the proposals, consultants have considered how best to maintain the visual and physical connection with the river and preserve the coastal identity of Littlehampton.

“These are exciting plans, and we are encouraging people to come along and learn more and give their views on the options.”

As part of the EA work, due to start in the autumn, a new flood wall will be built, and the promenade behind raised by up to 1.5 metres.

The footpath in Pier Road will be widened to form an open pedestrian walkway, which, it is hoped, will strengthen the East Bank as a key pedestrian route between the town and beach.

Mr Elkins added: “In these difficult times, £1m is a considerable amount of money to pledge to fund the enhancement works but it shows our commitment to the regeneration of Littlehampton.

“This is a one-off opportunity to deliver a great scheme for Littlehampton that protects properties, but also adds to the regeneration of the town.”

Pictures and plans outlining design options will go on show at the Civic Centre, Maltravers Road, Littlehampton, from 5-7pm on Thursday.

They will also be available to view at the Arun Ideas Shop, Beach Road, from 10.30am to 3pm on December 9, and 10.30am to 1pm on December 10. LDA Design and Arun officers will be available at the exhibition to answer any questions

Residents can also have their say online. Go to www.arun.gov between December 8 and 14.

Do you think Pier Road should be pedestrianised? Cast your vote in the panel to the right of the screen, and leave your comments below.