Video: New look Bognor High Street re-opens

The work began, after a delay, on February 22 and has included the road being given ‘a facelift’ – to make it ‘safer and pedestrian friendly’.

In a statement West Sussex County Council, which funded the project with Arun District Council, in partnership with Bognor Regis Town Council, also added the road had been narrowed and given ‘higher quality block paving’.

It said: “The effect of this is to slow traffic permitted to drive through it, making it safer for pedestrians.

“A raised junction makes the road the same height as the London Road precinct and easier to walk.”

Arun District Council’s Leader and Cabinet Member for Economic Regeneration, Gillian Brown, deemed the work ‘a tranformation’.

She said: “I am delighted the work to improve the High Street is now complete.

“It is pleasing to see there is already a café culture flourishing, encouraging people to stay longer and enjoy the town centre.”

Other ‘improvements’ listed by WSCC include:

Upgraded pedestrian crossing near Clarence Road;

Wider pavements;

Stylish seating and steel cycle stands.

The statement added ‘trees will be planted after the summer, when weather conditions are better for new trees’.

John O’Brien, WSCC’s cabinet member for highways and transport, said: “It’s great to see the High Street open and looking great ahead of the summer season.

“Projects like this build civic pride for residents and businesses.

“We believe this infrastructure will help attract investment into Bognor Regis.”