Also, this website highlights the 8 year period from 1988 - 1996 when campaigners, led by the tenacious conservationist Rob Blann, defended the early picture house against determined demolition, and later defeated a despicable plan to turn the Edwardian gem into a night club. As well, this website details a more recent period when this entertainment complex faced an uncertain future.
An internationally recognised landmark following extensive overseas publicity attracted by the intensive campaign to save the Dome, its distinctive octagonal tower and roof , prominent on Worthing's seafront, clearly distinguishes the town's shoreline from that of any other seaside resort. For almost 100 years South Coast fishermen have used it as a navigational aid, and many still do. Not only fishermen but also divers and users of pleasure craft find it indispensable too.
Thankfully the Dome complex was eventually awarded a massive National Lottery grant and was extensively refurbished at a cost of £2.5 million.
