[3][4] The new building, which was designed by the county architect, Jack Catchpole, in the modern style,[5][6] was opened by the Duchess of Kent on 31 October 1968.

[3] The opening ceremony also involved a dedication service which was led by Roger Wilson, the Bishop of Chichester, assisted by John Habgood, the Rector of St. Anne's Church.

[7] The abstract design of the 12 meters (39 ft) wide decorative panel, which was made from coloured fibreglass, was intended to recognise the diverse activities of the county council.

[3] A new council chamber was created on the first floor at St Anne's Crescent, so allowing most activities to be consolidated at that location, in October 2003.

[10] Exceptions included the County Archives which were moved from Pelham House into temporary facilities before being transferred to The Keep in Brighton in October 2013.