Adur council home project budget rises to £19.6 million

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 26 Oct, 15:02 · Archive

The budget for a 49-flat Adur council development in Southwick has risen to £19.6 million from £12.2 million.

The budget for a 49-flat Adur council development on Albion Street in Southwick has risen to £19.6 million from an original £12.2 million, with repairs expected to be completed by summer 2027.

The original contractor, Westridge Construction, left the project plagued by poor design, workmanship and materials before going into administration in 2023. Cheesmur Building Contractors was brought in to finish the scheme and has spent the past two years addressing these issues. In September, contractors began dismantling the balconies after investigations revealed major work was required before residents could move in.

Adur District Council approved a £3.2 million increase to the budget in July 2026. At the council's full meeting on 22 October, Councillor Lee Cowen said £2 million had been allocated from the 2026-27 capital budget, comprising £1.3 million for construction and £700,000 for capitalised interest. The increased cost is being funded through the Housing Revenue Account capital budget, including £997,830 recovered through an insurance bond. The council said there would be no direct impact on council tax for Adur residents because the project is funded through HRA.

How it is being reported

• Budget for new Adur council homes rises to £19.6mThe budget for new Adur council homes in Albion Street, Southwick, has risen to £19.6million, with repairs expected to be completed by summer 2027.Chichester Observer · 26 Oct, 14:21
• Budget for problem plagued council home development rises to £19.6 millionThe budget for new Adur council homes in Albion Street, Southwick, has risen to £19.6 million, with repairs expected to be completed by summer 2027.The Argus · 26 Oct, 14:12

In this story: Adur District Council · Westridge Construction · Cheesmur Building Contractors · Southwick · Albion Street · Lee Cowen

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