An ex-police facility will soon house a retail establishment.

Permission has been approved to change the use of the former Sussex Police premises located at 27 Chichester Road in Selsey, transforming it into commercial space.

The scheme involves converting the structure into a shop featuring customer facilities, an office for employees and conveniences.

According to a planning document filed for the project, the property has sat empty since 2019 and redevelopment is necessary because of its deteriorating state.

Local residents opposed the plans, warning it would create serious problems for neighbouring households.

Deborah Wyatt stated that no parking provision exists outside and this would generate considerable disruption for those living nearby. She noted that Chichester Road serves as a major thoroughfare for traffic entering and leaving Selsey.

Stephen Hart supported this view, describing the proposed location as completely unsuitable, and pointing out that parking in the vicinity was extremely difficult, particularly during the peak summer season.

Selsey Town Council also raised concerns about the proposals, highlighting insufficient parking arrangements, storage facilities and trading hours included in the submission.

Nevertheless, the developer maintained that the property offered room for several vehicles at the front. West Sussex County Council Highways confirmed this assessment, indicating adequate space for four parking spots on the premises.

Transportation officials further noted that satisfactory provisions appeared available for delivery vehicles and the location sat within a walkable, sustainable area.

Following the station’s closure, a campaign to reinstate the former police building collected over 1,500 signatures in 2019.

That same year, an application to demolish the structure and construct eight apartments was filed, though it was subsequently withdrawn.