Jim Redwood has been appointed to create a scheme to regenerate Shoreham Harbour.

Last month The South East England Development Agency (SEEDA) announced millions of pounds had been awarded to Shoreham Harbour which could bring thousands of new homes and jobs, a new public beach and possibly a new rapid transport link from Brighton and along the coast, with the upgrading of railway stations.

It is Mr Redwood as boss of the joint action area plan, to work with Shoreham Port Authority, Adur District Council, Brighton and Hove City Council and West Sussex County Council to help make this become a reality.

He has 32 years experience of working in local government planning, including at Worthing Borough Council and the former Hove Borough Council so he admits he is pretty familiar with the harbour.

He said: "I have about two years to produce the plans but it is vital that we have the support of the community. Without them this cannot move forward.

"We have to get the infrastructure plans in place first so a major scheme like this can move forward.

"The government has awarded the harbour "growth point status" which means investment because it can see its potential for what is a really exciting project.

"The port area is huge and it is complicated to develop harbour land because of flooding risk and contamination - it's all about getting the right mixture.

"When we talk about housing schemes, we know we need good quality housing in this area but the crucial element is that it is affordable.

"I am aware that there has been lots of talk and plans in the past for the harbour which have come to nothing but this time we have the money for the feasibility studies and by next spring we should have options and proposals for the public to look at and be consulted on.

"By the end of 2010 there will be a public inquiry where everyone can have their say on what should happen."

Mr Redwood is currently based at the Civic Centre in Shoreham but is looking to set up his own office for his joint area action plan team nearby in the town centre.

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