SPADES are in the ground at a landmark site earmarked for demolition.

The multi-storey Teville Gate car park, next to Worthing railway station, is being dug up ahead of an ambitious revamp pencilled in for completion by 2021.

Mosaic Global Investments Ltd snapped up the site, which dates back to the 1960s, in 2015.

The company’s vision is for a multi-purpose complex encompassing 375 apartments, a gym and a supermarket, as well a host of restaurants and cafes.

Worthing Borough Council regeneration lead Kevin Jenkins said: “The demolition of Teville Gate marks a real turning point. It’s a clear statement of intent that Worthing is open for business.

“Worthing needs to move forward into the 21st century, making the best use of sites such as Teville Gate for future generations. This council-led progress is just the beginning of what will be a number of important initiatives across the town.”

Demolition work on the site, which would have cost £2 million to keep open for the next four years, began with a 47-ton excavator tearing the roof off the old Bed King mattress kiosk.

Council environment lead Diane Guest said: “Teville Gate is one of the gateways to Worthing and its demolition after so many years marks a real catalyst for change. It’s great to see cranes back in the town centre.”