Message from the Leader of Worthing Borough Council

I am incredibly proud and honoured to have been elected as Leader of Worthing Borough Council and to have the opportunity to serve our town at such an important time.

Worthing is a special place and one that we all care deeply about. From our neighbourhoods, parks and green spaces to our seafront and coastal heritage, our climate goals, arts and culture, vibrant independent business scene and town centre, we are a town with community spirit, pride and ambition for the future.

Personally, one of the things I am most looking forward to is spending more time out in our communities, meeting residents, listening to ideas and hearing directly about the issues that matter most to people.

My focus will be on providing clear strategic leadership for Worthing, delivering local priorities and helping shape the future of our town as we prepare for a period of significant change.

Worthing, alongside councils across Sussex, is entering a period of local government reorganisation and devolution. This will bring change, but also opportunities. Strategic decisions around housing, transport, skills, economic growth and public services will increasingly be shaped at a Sussex level, making it more important than ever that Worthing has a strong voice and that our communities help shape what comes next.

My priorities as Leader are:

Clean, green neighbourhoods and civic pride:
I want Worthing to be a place we can all be proud of. That means clean streets, well maintained public spaces and working with partners to support community safety, while protecting our coastal heritage, green spaces and natural environment.
Getting out into our communities through Meet the Leader sessions:
Listening matters. I will be introducing regular Meet the Leader sessions across Worthing so residents can share ideas, raise concerns and help shape the future of our town.
Supporting local businesses and our town centre:
Our businesses are at the heart of our local economy and community life. Supporting local businesses, strengthening our town centre and helping Worthing thrive will be a key focus.
Focus on housing and homelessness pressures:
Housing pressures and homelessness remain some of the biggest challenges facing our communities. We will continue working with partners to support residents and improve outcomes across the town.
Preparing Worthing for local government change:
The coming years will bring significant change across Sussex. My priority will be ensuring Worthing is prepared for local government reorganisation, continues to deliver for residents and plays a leading role in shaping the future of local services and our place within Sussex.

I look forward to working with residents, businesses, community groups, partners and councillors from across the chamber as we protect what makes Worthing special and encourage us all to take pride in Worthing as we shape its future together.

Councillor Caroline Baxter
Leader of Worthing Borough Council

Photo: Councillor Caroline Baxter

Cllr Caroline Baxter (2026) - Labour - Central Ward