Local Man Commits to Creating Community Space at Goring Gap
Chris Dixon has pledged never to build houses on his Goring Gap land, instead creating a seasonal community green space for Worthing residents.
A Vision for Community Space
Chris Dixon, 62, has owned a strip of land at Goring Gap on Marine Drive for four years and is now committed to developing it as a community gathering place. The location, situated next to the junction with Amberley Drive, will feature recreational and leisure facilities designed to welcome visitors of all ages.
"I feel people would travel to come and use it, knowing they could park a car, use a toilet, have a drink, have some food, watch their children play and then leave at the end of a nice day, coming away saying 'Worthing is a great town to visit'," Mr Dixon told The Argus.
From Allotments to Leisure Space
Mr Dixon's plans for the land have evolved over time. Initially, he hoped to transform the site into allotments, but upon discovering the land wasn't suitable for that purpose, he shifted his focus to creating a leisure destination instead.
In 2024, Mr Dixon applied for a certificate of lawful use or development for a large sand pit for children alongside food and drink facilities. However, Worthing Borough Council refused the application. During the appeal process, Mr Dixon began preliminary work on the site, creating spaces for a sand pit and boules area. The planning inspectorate dismissed his appeal later that year, and Mr Dixon subsequently returned the land to its field state.
Moving Forward
Despite the setbacks, Mr Dixon has now submitted a fresh planning application to Worthing Borough Council. This application seeks permission to create a "seasonal community green space incorporating recreational, leisure and tourism-related activities."
As a father-of-two who describes himself as "Sussex born and bred," Mr Dixon has been vocal about his commitment to the community. He has made clear that he will never use the land for residential development, ensuring it remains dedicated to public enjoyment and community activities.
The renewed application represents Mr Dixon's determination to bring this vision to fruition, offering Worthing residents a valued space for leisure, recreation, and family activities. The development would provide facilities that encourage visitors to spend time in the town and create positive memories of what Worthing has to offer.
Source: Meet the man creating 'community space' on green gap commits to never building houses on land