Decision

The Council entered into the overarching Corporate Concession Agreement for the Worthing Heat Network on 28 March 2024. This agreement governs the entire development and operation of the network. The next phase of the heat network has been subject to and received planning permission back in October 2025. Following on from that, there has been extensive community engagement, and the project has been reviewed by the Joint Overview and Scrutiny Committee.

We must now formally vary the terms of the leases to Worthing Theatres and Museum Trust to regularise those properties being added to the Heat Network, and allow the Council [as Landlord] the right to install and maintain the District Heating System and any apparatus or equipment attached to it for each of those properties including;

(1) Worthing Assembly Hall,

(2) Worthing Museum,

(3) Connaught Theatre and

(4) Pavilion Theatre.

It has been further agreed that the Council, as Landlord, will indemnify the Tenant against any loss or damage arising from any tortious act (including in negligence) or breach of the Direct Supply Agreement between WTM and the Energy Supply Company (“Worthing ESCo”), subject to the Tenant first making a claim on their own insurance.

Approval is requested to vary the lease agreements of the above mentioned properties.

Reasons for the decision

This is a crucial step in delivering the next stage of the Council’s strategic low-carbon infrastructure project for Worthing (“Worthing’s Heat Network”). This will enable all cultural venues being operated by Worthing Theatres and Museum Trust, as listed, to be added to the Heat Network.

Alternative options considered

Not applicable.