Mr Young is the managing director of the firm, Locum Destination, which is carrying out a detailed review of the future of theatre in the town.

This follows an initial study into the entertainment and cultural provision which would be a feature of Bognor's regeneration.

Fears have been expressed the latest study will dismiss the outcome of the initial probe - that a 500-seat theatre could survive - and become a death knell for a venue for community and touring acts.

Chosen developer St Modwen has offered £5m towards the cost of building a venue, while landowner Arun District Council has ruled out any subsidy.

This has placed doubts among campaigners about how any theatre or multi-purpose building could survive.

Full report in the April 5 issue of the Bognor Regis Observer