The local community in Littlehampton is in urgent need of new shopping facilities and a proposed development on the Watersmead site offers an unprecedented opportunity to bring high-quality retail outlets closer to home. The planning application includes major brands such as, M&S Food, Lidl, Home Bargains, B&Q, and Greggs. Approving this planning permission would rejuvenate our local economy and provide countless benefits to residents in the area. We would not have to travel to Chichester or Worthing, freeing up some of the congestion we have.

This development would not only provide more convenient shopping options, but also create  job opportunities for local people, significantly reducing unemployment rates. With M&S Food bringing in fresh, quality produce and Lidl offering affordable groceries, it would cater to a wide demographic, with varying shopping needs and budgets, making everyday life better for thousands of families, including those that have recently moved into the area, due to all the new house building.

Furthermore, Home Bargains and B&Q would offer necessary home improvement supplies, encouraging home renovations and maintenance within our community, whereas Greggs would add to the local food options.

Importantly, this development will repurpose the existing Watersmead site, which currently stands underutilized. The site's transformation into a bustling retail hub would not only improve its aesthetic look, but also increase the area's overall desirability, attracting even more investments in the future.

We urge  Arun District Council to look beyond immediate logistical concerns. We dont believe it will have a major impact on the town centres, as the decline in the town centres is due to peoples lifestyle, safety fears and shopping habits. Hopefully, the high street with its new upcoming Premier Inn, will be rejuvenated.

We need to  consider the long-term benefits this development at Watersmead would bring. Security, parking, and traffic management should be priority discussions, as part of the planning approval process to ensure a smooth integration into our community.

Join us in advocating for this development to spur economic growth, enhance community convenience, and uplift the quality of life in Littlehampton. Please sign this petition to show your support for approving the planning permission for this essential retail development.

The  Officers of ADC have recommended refusal. The residents of Arun are asking our councillors to approve it!  If it is refused, we would like to use the petition signatures, for any future planning appeals for this case.