Chichester District Council's 15-year regeneration strategy to revitalise Chichester city centre has taken a major step forward with the appointment of a specialist consultant team.

Urban design experts AR Urbanism have been selected to lead the next phase of the project, supported by a consortium of professionals from Rolfe Judd Planning, Heritage Storeys and Urban Delivery. The team will begin developing design options for key regeneration sites identified in the strategy.

The council's regeneration strategy — adopted in October 2024 — sets out a long-term vision to make the city more connected, greener, safer, inclusive, and economically vibrant. It also aims to unlock significant development opportunities across key city-owned sites.

"We've already made great progress with several important elements of the strategy, but appointing a specialist consultant to undertake the extensive work required to assess the options available for each of the strategy's regeneration sites is really key to progressing this important project," said Cllr Adrian Moss, Leader of Chichester District Council.

"I'm very pleased to say that we have now appointed the consultant, AR Urbanism, and the team will press ahead to explore options and work up designs for key district council owned sites that are identified within the strategy, including the bus station, bus depot, and Basin Road car park."

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Over the summer, AR Urbanism will prepare initial schematic plans for each site. These will be reviewed and shortlisted by the council’s Regeneration and Growth Board, after which more detailed designs and costings will be developed.

The assessment process will take into account a range of key factors, including the historical setting and any nearby listed buildings, as well as sustainability, access, parking, affordable housing, and public open space needs.

"The regeneration sites included in the project have been identified because they offer the opportunity for significant and positive change to the area and have the potential to deliver the most social and economic benefit to our communities," said Cllr Moss. "The development of these district council owned sites should act as a catalyst for other landowners to bring forward sites for regeneration. This is why this strategy is so important — it's about the council working to help accelerate potential opportunities for the benefit of the city."

The strategy sets out a clear framework for guiding future planning decisions, making use of publicly owned assets and prioritising key development areas.

"Working collaboratively has been a really important part of the development of this strategy," added Cllr Moss. "Over the past couple of years, we have worked with over 80 stakeholders, including local businesses, resident organisations and local government organisations who have an invested interest in the city and its future success, to develop the strategy. Prior to this there was no over-arching strategy to bring regeneration and place-making opportunities together and so this is a really exciting opportunity for our historic city.

"This strategy has provided us with the opportunity to set out the key sites for regeneration and changes to the city that can help respond to wider issues, including creating more jobs and homes; improving digital infrastructure; and boosting the economy. The strategy also aims to improve investment, infrastructure, and the physical look of the city."