Irwin Mitchell advises Roffey Homes on Worthing’s Union Gardens development

Irwin Mitchell’s Real Estate team has advised Roffey Homes on its multi million pound purchase of land at Union Place in Worthing town centre, paving the way for construction of 216 new homes and commercial space.

The transaction unlocks delivery of Union Gardens - a new community of highly sustainable apartments with residents’ gardens, a pocket park, and a 236 space car park on a long dormant brownfield site in the heart of the town.

Led by partner Hannah Mercer, Irwin Mitchell has advised Roffey Homes throughout the process, including on planning related matters and the structure of the deal, and will continue to advise as the development progresses.

Worthing Borough Council first partnered with Roffey Homes on the scheme in 2022 and agreed last year to accelerate delivery by offering the developer the opportunity to purchase the land for £4.1 million.

The site is just over a hectare in size and is identified in the Worthing Local Plan as a key location for new homes. Planning permission was granted in August 2024.

The transfer of the site to Roffey Homes has now completed, with enabling and preparation works due to begin in this month and with Roffey Homes anticipating completion of the development by the end of 2029/30.

Hannah Mercer, Real Estate partner at Irwin Mitchell, said:

“This has been a complex and collaborative project, and it’s great to see all the work behind the scenes now moving into delivery. Union Gardens represents a major investment in Worthing’s future, and we look forward to continuing to support Roffey Homes as the development takes shape.”

Ben Cheal, managing director at Roffey Homes, said:

“Completing the land purchase is a major step forward for Union Gardens, and we’re excited to move into the delivery phase. Irwin Mitchell’s guidance has been invaluable throughout a complex process, and we’re genuinely grateful for their support as we work to bring much needed homes and new public space to Worthing.”