Bognor

Bognor is a seaside town on the south coast of England in the county of West Sussex, situated on the coast of the English Channel between Chichester and Worthing. It lies just north of the boundary of the West Sussex County Council area and is part of the larger region of South Coast England. Historically the area was known for its fishing, salt production and as a crossing point to the continent. The settlement was formally founded in 1585 by Sir John Naunton, after whom the area was originally called “Bognor (by the River Inn)”. The town remained a relatively small fishing and agricultural community until the 19th century when the arrival of the railway in 1863 and the subsequent promotion of the area as a health resort increased its importance. The addition of “Regis” to its name in 1914 was to honour King George V, recognising his support of the local economy.

Modern Bognor is a residential and tourism centre with attractions including the 16th‑century Bognor Beach, Bognor Pavilion, and the well‑known gardens of Bognor Kingsway. The town provides a mix of retail outlets, leisure facilities and educational institutions, including a campus of the University of Sussex. Local transport links include the Bognor Regis railway station on the West Coastway Line and road connections via the A259 and the M275. The population is around 30,000, with a service sector economy that focuses on retail, public administration, health and tourism. Emphasis is placed on conservation of the shoreline, improvement of local infrastructure, and support for small businesses in the community.