News and updates

6 September 2021

Q&A with Roffey Homes Managing Director

At 15 storeys high, Bayside Apartments is the latest collection of outstanding homes from award-winning developers Roffey Homes. A milestone development in the regeneration plans of Worthing (which started to take shape back in November 2017), and now, just over three and a half years and a global pandemic later, the finishing touches are being made to this eye-catching landmark.

Earlier this month, we were able to spend a few minutes strolling along the beach with Roffey Homes Managing Director Ben Cheal and thought we'd take the opportunity to ask him a few questions…

Q: Bayside Apartments is Roffey Home’s largest development to date, were you specifically looking for a sizeable development or was it an opportunity which arose that you couldn’t turn down? 

“It was very much about the opportunity of developing the site due to its unique location with the views to the east all along to the Seven Sisters and the fact that there isn’t a road between Bayside and the beach.

“The size just developed out of what we felt the site could take, bearing in mind its location and the aim of the Council for Bayside to become an Eastern Gateway site. The tallest element of the scheme makes it a special marker in the town.” 

Q: What was it that drew you to choose this particular location to develop? 

“Having the opportunity to create a bespoke development that offered unrivalled views, coastal living, close to the town centre, shops, bars and restaurants was what drew me to the Bayside site.” 

Q: How do you go about transforming what was a derelict building into something that sets the property apart and make it stand out? 

“There was quite a bit of creative thinking that went into this one! I employed a great team of architects and gave them a clear brief about what my vision was for the site.”

Q: What do you feel defines Bayside Apartments and sets it apart from other luxury developments? 

“There are four things that make this an incredible place to live. Firstly, its location. You can walk out of your apartment and you're immediately on the beach.

“Secondly, the architecture. They’re a talented team at Allies and Morrison architects, they’ve created beautiful lines that complement the surroundings.

“The facilities are next. We wanted to add an extra touch of luxury, so built a private heated pool for our residents, with the sea as the backdrop. We’re also delighted that MasterChef winner, Kenny Tutt, will be joining us on 4th September when he opens his latest restaurant, Bayside Social. 

“Finally, it’s the views. You can see for miles in all directions; all along the coast, watch the changing tides, sun rises and sunsets, and to the north is the South Downs aptly known as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.”

Q: Where did the design and inspiration for Bayside come from? 

“We wanted to create something that was ‘of Worthing’. We carried out plenty of research and wanted to respect the lines of Brighton Road and New Parade.

“We wanted a development to fit with the context of the town and enrich its urban character. To create quality homes that provide a beachfront public space that helps invigorate this part of the beach and promenade. Having a ‘greener approach’ to energy supply via a central boiler to provide residents with a more sustainable and affordable heating and hot water supply was also important to us.

“I would love to take the credit for the design, but it is really all down to the architects and their expertise.”

Q: What has been your biggest challenge with the development, and how did you overcome it?

“Every major construction project comes with challenges – especially when you throw a global pandemic into the mix. It is a technically difficult building to construct, so we required experienced contractors from out of the area to ensure the highest build, finish and skillset were utilised.”

Q: What are you most proud of at Bayside? 

“Persevering with obtaining the required planning permission and delivering it through an exceptionally difficult period of time - and just about managing to stay sane!”

Q: How are the residents enjoying their new homes? 

“All our Bayside residents have given really positive reviews of their new homes, which is great to hear. There is a real sense of community starting to build, which will only get stronger as the development matures.

One lady I spoke to said she feels like she is forever on holiday and that when she has friends over to visit, they don’t want to leave!”

Q: Why should someone buy a Bayside Apartment? 

“All of our developments are bespoke, individually designed to their location, and built by our expert team who take immense pride in their work.

“If you are considering buying a Bayside Apartment, then make sure you come and see it for yourself as it’s not until you see the finish, experience the ambience and take in the views that you can see how special Bayside truly is – there are only 5 apartments left now too!” 

Q: What’s next on your list? 

“We’ve just started the next phase of building work at The Tate Residences, which overlooks the Sussex County Cricket Ground in Hove and we’re also breaking ground at Calista on Worthing seafront.

I’m really confident that our developments will be the catalyst for further investment in Worthing.”