Southwick council homes budget rises to £19.6 million as repairs continue
The Albion Street development in Southwick has seen its budget increase by £7.4 million from the original £12.2 million figure.
Budget increase approved
The budget for Adur District Council's Albion Street development in Southwick has risen to £19.6 million. The original budget was just over £12.2 million, meaning the project has seen a substantial increase of £7.4 million.
A £3.2 million increase was approved by councillors in July 2026. At the council's full council meeting on 22 October, Councillor Lee Cowen confirmed that £2 million had been allocated from the Adur Homes 2026-27 capital budget. This comprised £1.3 million for construction and £700,000 for capitalised interest.
The council said the increased cost is being funded through its Housing Revenue Account capital budget, including £997,830 recovered through an insurance bond. There will be no direct impact on day-to-day council tax for Adur residents.
History of problems
The 49-flat development has faced significant issues with poor design, workmanship and materials that occurred under the original contractor, Westridge Construction. Westridge went into administration in 2023.
Cheesmur Building Contractors was brought in to complete the project and has spent the past two years addressing the legacy problems. In September, contractors began dismantling the balconies after investigations revealed major work was needed before residents could occupy the building.
Timeline to completion
Cllr Cowen told the council meeting that sealant had been applied to the brickwork and progress had been made clearing materials from the site. A hoist was due to be installed.
The expected timeline includes scaffolding around structural beams scheduled for November 2026, followed by removal of brick cladding in December. Cutting down and removing steel beams is planned for January 2027, with new masonry construction scheduled for February and March. Installation of windows, doors and new balconies is planned for April.
"So I guess you know we're looking at somewhere in the summer for final delivery but of course with challenges around projects like this and we've seen it before there are a number of external factors that could influence those timescales," Cllr Cowen said.
He warned that adverse weather, unknown structural conditions and material delivery times could affect the schedule but said the council wanted to get the project finished as soon as possible.
Once completed, the development will provide 49 flats for local people on Adur's housing register.
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