The second phase of a heat network project has been delayed.
Hemiko was due to start digging on Worthing seafront in March to connect Splashpoint Leisure Centre and the Pavilion Theatre to the low carbon network.
The operator has now confirmed that the work has been delayed until after the Easter holiday period following feedback from town centre business representatives.
More than two kilometres of pipes have already been laid in Worthing to connect the town hall, Connaught Theatre and Worthing Museum and Gallery to the system, which transfers hot water through insulated pipes underneath the town to connected buildings.
Construction began in Worthing in July 2024, with the first connection, the Connaught Theatre, going live in September last year.
Businesses in the town centre reported disruption to their trade due to the works, with those in the Guildbourne Centre being particularly affected.
Business owner Samantha Whittington said in October, when the second phase of the project was being approved, that she feared Hemiko’s works would “kill the town dead” and her business was operating at a loss for the first time in 15 years.
Hemiko’s chief executive Toby Heysham said lessons had been learned from phase one and changes would be made to phase two works to reduce disruption.
A spokesman for Hemiko said: “The next phase of the Worthing Heat Network will involve pipe installation works to connect the existing network to Splashpoint Leisure Centre and the Pavilion Theatre.
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“Works along the seafront were originally planned to begin earlier in March. However, following feedback from town centre business representatives, we have taken the decision not to request to work over Easter.
“As a result, the next phase of works will now begin after the Easter holiday period. We are currently reprogramming the construction schedule to reflect this and will share updated timelines as soon as they are confirmed.
“Once works starts, temporary fenced‑off areas will be set up to safely carry out the pipe installation. The project has been planned to minimise disruption to residents and businesses and we will continue to monitor noise and activity to ensure they remain within agreed limits.
“The High Street Multi-Storey Car Park will remain open throughout the works.
“In the meantime, the existing network is fully operational, and the first customers are receiving heat as normal, including the recently re‑opened Worthing Museum & Gallery. If you have any questions about these works, please contact us at worthing@hemiko.com.”