Public invited to have their say on the Marine Quarter Project
Arun District Council is inviting residents to take part in a public drop-in event on the emerging Marine Quarter project, a key coastal regeneration initiative designed to revitalise part of Bognor Regis' seafront.
The Marine Quarter will celebrate Bognor Regis' maritime identity, support the fishing community, promote marine conservation, and create high‑quality public spaces that connect people with the coast.
The Marine Quarter project centres on three connected sites, each playing a vital role in honouring Bognor Regis' seafront heritage while shaping a sustainable and vibrant future:
- the unique seabed off the Bognor Regis coastline, home to ecologically rich marine habitats including kelp, shellfish and a diverse range of coastal species. This marine environment supports the town's fishing heritage and provides opportunities for education, research and conservation through partnerships with environmental organisations
- the wet fish stall, the project aims to assist the operator (Bognor Fishermen's Association) in enhancing their stall, through grant funding to improve their retail space
- proposed ground floor use of the vacant plot at Waterloo Square, identified as the preferred location for a new public‑facing use such as a marine‑themed visitor, research or education centre
Together, these three sites form the foundation of a single, cohesive vision: to support the fishing industry, strengthen environmental stewardship and create engaging new experiences that celebrate Bognor Regis' relationship with the sea.
We encourage residents to attend the public drop-in events to learn more about the emerging proposals and share their views which will take place at:
- The Waverley Pub, Marine Drive West, Bognor Regis PO21 2QA on Saturday 28 March from 11am to 2pm
- The RAFA Club, 19 Waterloo Square, Bognor Regis, PO21 1TE on Tuesday 31 March from 2pm to 5pm
Attendees will have the opportunity to view concept material, speak with project officers and provide feedback.
Cllr Roger Nash,Chair of the Economy Committee at Arun District Council, said:
“The Marine Quarter is an exciting project. I am glad to see this moving forward in Bognor Regis. There is so much to celebrate about our unique marine environment and local fishing heritage. I urge residents to come along and find out more”.
Dean Spears, Head of Sussex Bay and the project team, said:
"Sussex Bay are delighted to be working with communities in Bognor Regis to explore the exciting opportunities offered by the Marine Quarter. By bringing together the richness of the marine environment, local heritage, and the value this space holds for residents, including the Bognor Fishermen's Association, we can shape a shared vision that celebrates the town's identity and its future potential. We look forward to hearing from local communities, so please do get involved."
For further information, please visit the Sussex Bay website https://www.sussexbay.org.uk/bognor-marine-quarter-vision