Worthing’s historic seaside resort attractions are fading, prompting the council to step up efforts to stop them from falling over the edge, quite literally. With the pier already struck by storms that resulted in a temporary closure, now it’s Worthing’s iconic Lido which is perilously close to dropping into the sea. Time for action – the council is pondering over its business plan.   

A petition calling on Worthing Borough Council to undertake urgent work to repair and renovate the town’s landmark Lido has reached more than 360 signatures, as local residents fear the Grade II-listed attraction is “perilously close to falling into the sea.”

The petition, started by local resident Elaine Deed, comes two years after the local authority launched a public consultation on the future of the site, with councillors now stating they will be seeking support to restore the Lido in the new year.

“Our beloved lido, once a symbol of local heritage, now stands in disrepair, marked by graffiti and perilously close to falling into the sea,” states Deed’s petition.

“The Lido is a part of the town’s identity but its current condition affronts its original glory and purpose.”

Responding to the petition, a council spokesperson said the Lido is “an asset that needs attention to ensure it continues to reinvent itself for generations to come.”

“We will be inviting individuals, organisations and communities in the new year to be part of safeguarding this asset as we can’t do this on our own. The conversations will include how this asset and others, including the pier, could be funded in the immediate future, as well as the long term.”