Wow, looks great!

Thats very exciting. I saw that crane at black rock too from a distance and overexcited about the marina tower, but alas. It's great to see what the whole redevelopment will look like.
What is the timetable on the Marina Tower? I thought work was supposed to start at the end of this year, but nothing yet.

Are there plans for the new arena to host ice hockey matches and for Brighton to have a hockey team?

The new arena has been delayed as the designs now have to be tweaked somewhat to take into account the new explore living brighton marina scheme and the brunswick scheme, we should see the new planning application sometime in the spring I'd imagine, the arena is now not expected to be complete until 2009 (assuming permission is granted).

ooo I have just found the new website for the Brighton international arena, it's www.brightonarena.co.uk

There are 3 walkthrough's for you all to enjoy also, showing the exterior of the building, the interior and the arena itself - looks impressive.

Are there plans for the new arena to host ice hockey matches and for Brighton to have a hockey team?

Indeed there are, the new arena is to be home to the once mighty Brighton tigers.:)

http://www.theargus.co.uk/display.var
1107690.0.a_rival_for_king_alfred.php

A rival for King Alfred

By Rachel Pegg

The people of Brighton and Hove are being asked to back a rival scheme for the King Alfred leisure centre.

A group of local businessmen claim they have an alternative only a few weeks before a planning meeting decides whether Frank Gehry's audacious design can be built, Millionaire entrepreneur Mike Holland and his business partner John Regan believe their plan is better.

Last year the pair rescued the British Engineerium in Hove and Newlands School in Seaford after both were threatened with closure.

Architect Nick Lomax, who helped design Brighton's Jubilee Library, supports them and has promised to create a new design from scratch.

The plans offer a maximum 450 homes compared to 750 in Gehry's design. There would also be an Olympic-sized swimming pool and bowling facilities The proposal is supported by Conservative Brighton and Hove city councillors. Lib Dems have called it "interesting" but Labour and the Greens said it was too late to be coming up with new ideas with a planning meeting imminent.

Mr Holland said: "We are saying, give us a chance to demonstrate there is a viable alternative.

"At the very least, for now, please don't rush ahead. We feel it is a grave folly. We don't want another white elephant in Brighton and Hove.

"We are not anti-Gehry. Had it been another location it might have been okay."

The men said they have been thinking about the idea for years and have stepped in now because they are unhappy with what is being proposed by the developer Karis.

If councillors indicated their proposal had a chance, they would draw up detailed plans.

Mr Regan said that in 2002 the scheme was estimated at £15.9 million, or £19 million with car parking, for a 9,000 to 10,000 sq metre sports centre. It averaged out at £2,000 per sq metre.

He said: "We are now being told the facility is going to cost £46 million. That is a watered-down version of the brief. There is no indoor bowling. Why is it costing £46 million?"

Mr Regan believes his new plan could come in at £25 million for the sports centre, a similar cost to the £30 million K2 centre in Crawley.

He says the council administration is trying to push the scheme through before the election when Labour might lose seats.

Mr Lomax said he has "deep misgivings" about Karis's plans because the brief asked for too many homes.

He said people looking at it from the seafront will see nothing but a blank wall.

Josh Arghiros, managing director of Karis, dismissed the proposals.

He said: "If we are going to build a world-class sports centre with the world's greatest architect and it will be a sports centre that will be the envy of the world, it isn't going to cost the same as one built in Crawley.

"If they want a Crawley-esque sports centre, that isn't what we intend to do.

"We want an individual, inspiring, world class sports centre that will be the envy of the world, just like our city.

"Frank Gehry is probably the world's greatest architect.

"We have spent £10 million getting the design right, making sure the ground conditions are right.

"They have no idea what it costs to build because we've spent four years investigating by using the premier consultants."

There was a really negative article about the Gehry scheme on the front of the council giveaway at the King Alfred centre, asking 'Does Brighton really need this?"

I don't think this stands any chance of being built IMO. The marina yes, tower by the station yes, brighton centre tower yes, but this no.

The insight city news which you saw that article isn't a council publication, you are probably confusing it with the 'city news' publication which the council used to publish.

I think I agree with you though large that this king alfred scheme will most likey not win planning permission, there is apparently going to be an alternative scheme which is currently being drawn up by Nick Lomax who was behind the design for our new library.

There was a really negative article about the Gehry scheme on the front of the council giveaway at the King Alfred centre, asking 'Does Brighton really need this?"

I don't think this stands any chance of being built IMO. The marina yes, tower by the station yes, brighton centre tower yes, but this no.

When is the 'meeting' to decide this one?

When is the 'meeting' to decide this one?

February or March I think. But I believe another, much more serious problem is looming, not just for this, but for all developments in Brighton, and beyond, and that is the economy and property market. The doo-doo is about to hit the fan, and I expect to see prices begin to plumet outside London by the end of this year. Even though Brighton has a restricted housing supply, I don't believe that will be enough to insulate it from the coming financial storm. Our creaking debt ridden economy is about to go tits up, led by the housing market. With prices having risen 2-3 times in a decade, we are in uber-bubble territory, and bubbles only do two things, expand and pop, they cannot expand forever, and I believe our lunatic property market is finally ready to explode.

I said this back in 2004, and had the BOE not given the impression that it will always bale out the market (which it can't) and we hadn't had 400,000 immigrants turn up, my prediction would have been correct. Now the immigrants might come, but soon there will be no jobs for them, and so they will go home, and the BOE cannot lower rates until inflation is well and truly under control, and there is no risk of devaluing the pound. The party is over, and we are about to experience the mother of all debt hangovers.

Just found this article on the Brighton Business website. Another reason (if any were needed) why I won't ever set foot on the Palace Pier again (sorry I can't call the pier by its 'new' name) :bash:

Construction of the futuristic Brighton Eye or i360 was due to start early in 2007 after planning consent was granted by Brighton & Hove City Council in October. Like so many of our developments it has been delayed.

The owners of the nearby Brighton Pier (formerly Palace Pier) lodged an objection to a harbour revision order being granted which was necessary to facilitate construction of the 172m viewing spire. They fear that the Brighton Eye will prove to be competition for their own attractions on the Pier.

The decision was referred to central government, which was expected to make a pronouncement in September but it now seems unlikely to happen before the new year.

Link to article
http://www.brightonbusiness.co.uk/htm/ni20061215.927717.htm

I'm not too worried by that to be honest, Brighton pier have no chance in having any success with their objection, construction will be delayed by a couple of months at most.

I agree Brighton boy, its just frustrating that they only have their own interests at heart and care nothing for the development of Brighton as a city.

It's not like their regular patrons could afford a £10 ticket to go on the eye anyway! *somebody got out of the wrong side of bed today*

And how stupid can they get - people will flock to the eye from all over the place - then they'll finish and instead of going to other tourist attractions (like the Palace Pier) they'll just get back on the train and go home I suppose. Divs.

Some positive news in the Argus today on the King alfred, apparently two thirds of the city support the proposals, I just hope the scheme goes to the planning comittee before the May elections as if the Conservatives take control of the council there will be no chance of this being built.

Poll backs King Alfred development
By Lawrence Marzouk

The first independent test of public opinion on the controversial King Alfred leisure complex has found two-thirds of the city back its development.

Leading pollsters ICM revealed the findings in a 28-page report released exclusively to The Argus.

Developer Karis, which commissioned the survey, claimed the results proved that the silent majority was in favour of Frank Gehry's plans for Hove seafront but opponents of the scheme have rubbished the poll.

Advertisement continued...
A new sports complex, shops and 751 homes are planned for the site of the crumbling leisure centre, which has been the subject of a series of failed development bids.

But the £290 million project has not been without its dissenters, with Conservative councillors and residents groups determined to fight it.

The poll by ICM, an independent public opinion research group, questioned 1,000 city residents. The results showed that for every opponent there are three supporters.

Even in Hove, where protests have been the most vociferous, 60 per cent declared their support while 23 per cent were against.

Support was strongest among the under-54s, peaking at 69 per cent for 18 to 24-year-olds and the 45 to 54 age group.

Opposition was most commonly expressed by 55 to 64 year olds, of which 27 per cent were against and 57 per cent in favour.

Of those who supported the scheme, the biggest attraction was revealed to be the promise of new leisure facilities and the design by acclaimed architect Frank Gehry.

But the design was also the biggest concern to those opposed to the scheme, followed by the scale of the development.

More than half of those polled thought the King Alfred development would make Brighton and Hove a better city, 32 per cent said it would make no difference and nine per cent believed it would have a negative impact.

Josh Arghiros, Karis managing director, said: "This is a real endorsement of what we are trying to deliver for the people of Brighton and Hove.

"We've heard the noise generated by a small minority of people who are against the scheme but this is the first chance residents across the city have had to give their views and they have given our plans a resounding thumbs-up.

"The city needs the King Alfred scheme, business leaders are massively behind the scheme as they can see its benefits and now the people have made their choice clearly. Let's hope the politicians are listening."

Council leader Simon Burgess also backed the findings. He said: "Residents increasingly see the need for redevelopment that will deliver affordable housing and leisure facilities.

"People want to live in a bright and vibrant place that doesn't always look to the past.

"I am not surprised by the results but the poll cannot get in the way of ensuring that we get everything right even if it is very encouraging that people are showing such support."

However, Councillor Brian Oxley, leader of the Conservative group and opponent of the scheme, said he remained unconvinced by the results.

He said: "It may be a scientific study but I do not think the questions are detailed enough because people need to be asked how are we going to manage the traffic and where are people going to park."

The redevelopment is expected to come before a planning committee in the near future, representing the last major hurdle before the new project can go ahead.

But Coun Oxley said that if his party wrests control of the council in May's election he would review the authority's options on the project's future.

Valerie Paynter, of Save Hove, said it was easy to manufacture a result from a poll by asking the right questions.

She said: "This poll is desperation on the part of Karis. It is unrealistic to expect people to have the whole picture about the planning application if they have never looked at it."

http://www.thekingalfred.org/_images/_models/2006-1.jpg

Some positive news in the Argus today on the King alfred, apparently two thirds of the city support the proposals, I just hope the scheme goes to the planning comittee before the May elections as if the Conservatives take control of the council there will be no chance of this being built.



Labour are dead, I just wish there was someone else other than the Tories of Lib Dems. I hate the Tories even more than I hate Labour.

Here are a few more pics taken today of the ever growing New England Quarter. Apologies for the size and quality, I was being a bit of a dummy and had the camera on totally the wrong setting.
http://farm1.static.flickr.com/126/369966410_27771600b1_o.jpg

I believe this is going to be the language school
http://farm1.static.flickr.com/147/369964493_1c3cd1fa60.jpg?v=1169830601
http://farm1.static.flickr.com/138/369964497_5cb3a8e96f_o.jpg

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/183/369964489_04efcbc1cb_o.jpg

Flats on New England Street
http://farm1.static.flickr.com/173/369964485_4b633cd67f_b.jpg

Cheers for those Mark, it's good to see the development coming along, the Jury's inn hotel looks as though it is about to finally begin construction.

Does anyone know when the decision is due on the the Beetham tower?

Found this article in the FT Weekend by Bob Sherwood

For those accustomed to its genteel Regency architecture, a new development on Brighton seafront could come as something as a shock.
Work has started this week on supports for a platform above the waves which will provide the base for a 40-storey tower that will dominate the eastern end of the city's beachfront.
THe £250m development, designed by the architects Wilkinson Eyre, renowned for the Gateshead millenium bridge, is an attempt to transform the fortunes of Brighton marina.
Andrew Goodall, the entrepreneur behind the project, hopes the plans for 853 apartments and 30,000 square feet of commercial space in the tower and a cluster of buildings on the platform will finally realise the potential of the city's marina.
The marina has a chequred history. Formerly owned by Brent Walker, the lesiure group collapsed in the early nineties, the marina was labelled a white elephant and has never become an integral part of the seaside city.
Mr Godall, managing director of Brunswick developments ehich brought the marina for £9m from Brent Walker's receivers in 1996 said "About 8m people a year come to Brighton but only a tiny proportion of them ever come to the marina"
"Everything we have done is to integrate the marina with the city. The height of the tower will make the marina seem closer to the city and more inviting."
The design incorporates a top floor viewing gallery and a £5m swing bridge that will allow people to walk around the entire marina sea wall of the marina. There will also be £2m spent on improving the mile-long beachfront walkway from the pier to the marina and another bridge across the beach into the development.
Planning permission was secured last year once the design met the approval of English Heritage, which was concerned it should not detract from the views of the historic, grade one listed Sussex Square naerby.
The financial driver is the swish apartments that will be expensive compared with the rest of the city's property market. One bed flats will sell for about £275,000 with the two beds at about £400,000. Penthouses will begin at about £2m. There will also be a large proportion of affordable homes with 62 of the first phase of the 192 flats going to the Guiness Trust .
Mr Goodall is not worried about the prices, claiming that he already has 170 people clamouring to buy into the development even though no flats have yet been released and the scheme has not even been advertised.
Nor is he concerned about funding for the scheme. he says talks with Barret Homes, which owns the existing residential part of the marina, about a partnership in the scheme are well advanaced.
The 50m boreholes for the platform supports are the first stage and the tower is dur for completion in 2011.
Speculators should, however curb any ambitions to by the near £3m two floor penthouse. Mr Goodall has reserved that for himself.

So can anyone confirm that construction on these boreholes has started?

I'll try and get down there at some point and take some pics, it's good to see that something majorly tall is finally starting construction in our fair city. :)

http://www.pipers.co.uk/pm/model.php?id=122


Beetham Brighton - not posted the pix - they dont like it

http://www.thekingalfred.org/_images/_models/2006-1.jpg

Is this the updated design? I get confused - in Insight paper or whatever it is with the big article with the Library architect guy it has a different model.

I'm getting more luke warm to this project by the day.

Indeed elfabyanos it is the updated design, the one that was published in the insight city news was the old one.

What do you think of the Beetham tower plans?

I personally think that the proposed location of it is ideal for a modern, tall building and would be a bold welcoming statement to people arriving by train.

Does anyone know when the appeal is likely to be decided?

I heard soon but not sure of the exact date.

Is this the updated design? I get confused - in Insight paper or whatever it is with the big article with the Library architect guy it has a different model.

I'm getting more luke warm to this project by the day.

yes the updated design.. not sure about the residential obviously designed by someone else, piers gough i believe to the right and left of ghery's stuff. Seems somewhat bland and uninspired and crude to me. I personally think that they should just build the ghery designed towers and sports centre and leave the rest of the space for a park, It would compliment this architecture far better and look less dense and over developed.

Quote from Skyscraper News.com
Early foundation-work has started on what will be Brighton's next tower, the Roaring Forties at Brighton Marina.
The 128 metre tall, 40 floor building has been designed in traditional Brighton white by Wilkinson Eyre Architects for Brunswick Developments and gone through a protracted planning battle to get approval that lasted several years.
It's the centrepiece of the scheme that will provide 853 new homes, retail, leisure, and other local amenities that befit the status of the location as one of the most potentially promising commercial sites in Brighton.
A swing bridge, also designed by Wilkinson Eyre, is included in the plan that will open up the sea wall of the marina as a new pedestrian route giving plenty of cold wet fun for walkers during storms.
Construction work is currently centred around digging boreholes a massive 50 metres deep to act as support for the platform that the tower will rest on. Although cavernous by most standards, it is wise to remember the tower is literally out to sea sitting on the very edge of the marina away from land, hence the need for such unusual support.
The prices for one bedroom flats in the tower are expected to start at around £275,000 with two bed ones going for £400,000 - a substantial mark up compared to other similar property in Brighton and a great example of the demand there is to live there.
The developer already claims that they have interest in 170 apartments despite no flats being released. Those eager to live in the Marina might have to wait a while as the first phase will issue 192 apartments, 62 of which are going to be affordable accommodation for the Guiness Trust.
Completion is set for some time in 2011.


Article doesn't add much more detail than was quoted in the FT story posted by Hcrosskey. I still can't believe I would see the day when one of the City's major projects actually commences!

Some pics of the 11,000 capacity Brighton international arena development at black rock.

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/151/385377564_0b10216976.jpg?v=0

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/126/385377600_79c6113f15.jpg?v=0

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/128/385377622_34a46a39c7.jpg?v=0

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/180/385377691_dff0f1d40c.jpg?v=0

Work has begun on clearing the site for the I360 tower, this from the argus.

Workers have moved in to clear the way for the Brighton Eye.

Remnants of the West Pier in Brighton have been cleaned before they are moved to a new resting place. Old railings, dismantled kiosks and original lamps are being moved from a storage space at the foot of the West Pier skeleton to a new location.

Workmen had to wear masks while they washed away layers of guano, otherwise known as pigeon faeces, which had built up after years in storage. Once the i360 is built, some of the artefacts will go on display in a heritage centre which will form part of the attraction.

Doesn't sound like the most pleasant job in the world!

http://www.westpier.co.uk/I360/images/image3_bg.jpg

http://www.westpier.co.uk/I360/images/tower.jpg

I can't believe that something which will have such a massive impact on the skyline, and surrounding area can get through so easily while projects like the endeavor site Hove, or the Brighton Gateway tower, or Beetham can have such a bumpy ride. This huge pilon will change the face of the whole city, and be visible from just about everywhere.

Good news on the state of our tourism in todays Argus:

Tourism boom for city
By Lawrence Marzouk
Brighton and Hove has emerged as England's most popular holiday destination for foreign travellers after London.

Government figures obtained by The Argus reveal that after years of stagnation, the city leapfrogged a host of internationally renowned tourist hot spots in 2005, attracting more than 150,000 visitors from overseas.

Statisticians have calculated that the bonanza year brought in £70 million to the economy - up at least £20 million on previous years.

advertisementA breakdown of figures from The International Passenger Survey shows that the number of foreign visitors had declined from 97,000 in 2000 to 92,000 in 2004.

At the turn of the millennium, Stratford-upon-Avon, Bath, Cardiff, Manchester and Cambridge attracted more overseas tourists than Brighton and Hove.

But in 2005, the city claimed second place behind the capital, attracting 155,000 foreign tourists.

Results for Hastings, Chichester, Worthing and Eastbourne show that the rest of Sussex has not fared as well.

Eastbourne and Chichester recorded a fall in foreign visitors while Hastings and Worthing saw small rises.

Councillor Sue John, who heads the council's tourism and culture committee, said: "We have been working more closely with foreign journalists and travel writers on getting good coverage for the city.

"We also work closely with Visitbritain, the national tourist office in many of these overseas markets.

"We have increased the amount of translated information on the site to include French, Spanish, German, Italian, Dutch and Polish.

"We also continue to work with all local tourism businesses and foreign language schools to ensure that all visitors who come here have the best and highest quality experience.

"And many of our ongoing events, attractions and conferences are increasingly generating larger numbers of foreign delegates and visitors."

Mark Jones, chairman of Brighton and Hove Hotels Association, said the city has seen an increase in the number of European and Canadian visitors but added that more needed to be done to promote events like the Brighton Festival.

He said: "It is good news because foreign visitors tend to stay longer, although very few who come to Brighton are just visiting Brighton.

"We are now beyond a seaside resort because Brighton and Hove is now a cultural destination as well.

"Eventually the Brighton Centre will close to be rebuilt so we do need to ask what more can we do to try to promote Brighton.

"We are entering into five years of flux and we need to make sure we keep people coming."

The survey asked a random sample of passengers entering and leaving the UK by air, sea or the Channel Tunnel.

Over a quarter of a million face-to-face interviews were carried out each year with passengers entering and leaving the UK.

Work has begun on the i360 it said it on south today so i think it will be going up soon at least i hope so.

Excellent news for live music lovers in the city, the AMG group (owners of the Carling academy venues in Birmingham, Bristol, Brixton, Glasgow, Newcastle and Liverpool have announced their acquisition of the Brighton hippodrome :)

From soundgenerator.com -

Major new venue for Brighton

The Academy Group add to their live music cache

Brighton crowds have something to cheer about The Academy Group - the company that own the London Brixton Academy and Shepherds Bush Empire, amongst others - have confirmed the acquisition of a historic building in Brighton.

In a press release this week, the live music company reveal they've bought the Hippodrome on Middle Street, Brighton, which has been used as a bingo hall since 1967.

AMG's Chief Executive Officer, John Northcote says... "Brighton is a great City, a location we've been looking into for some time. We're delighted at the prospect of maintaining and developing a site with such history, especially as this venue still retains many of its original features and grandeur of its early years. Our aim is to bring the Hippodrome back as a quality entertainment venue, working with local bands and artists as well as major UK and international acts. "

It's thought that AMG will start work on renovating the property into a stylised, modern large capacity venue for live music artists and themed nights.

A Grade II listed building, the Hippodrome first opened as an ice rink in 1897, before being turned into a variety theatre. In the 60's, the venue played host to concerts by The Beatles and Rolling Stones.

Some pics of the interior of the Hippodrome (taken in 1988 when it was used as a bingo hall).

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/173/374560418_603fb7428c.jpg?v=0

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/144/374560425_f5ad693fe5.jpg?v=0

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/177/374560423_ad506a884a.jpg?v=0

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/149/374560420_724229c6ce.jpg?v=0

Should make a fantastic live music venue.

Good news, the one planet living scheme which will be located in the city centre at the new england quarter has been approved :)

From the Argus -

Green light for green housing

A world first environmentally friendly housing development has been given the green light by councillors.

Brighton and Hove City Council yesterday agreed to plans to build the first ever One Planet Living community development at the Brighton Station site.

The One Planet Living (OPL) project is jointly run by the World Wildlife Fund and international sustainability organisation Bioregional. It aims to help people live within a sustainable ecological footprint.

The Brighton development is the first of its kind in the world and OPL hope to establish five like it by 2009.

Chairman of the planning committee Councillor Les Hamilton said: "This is a very special development and I'm very proud that Brighton and Hove is part of this global project and not only that, but we will have the very first One Planet Living community in the world. It will put our city on the international environmental map."

The theory behind OPL is that the development agrees to adhere to the OPL principles of zero carbon and sustainability.

Green city councillor Keith Taylor said: "Climate change, resource shortages, housing provision, traffic congestion, air pollution, sustainable food sourcing, reducing food miles, promoting social and environmental justice and participation and making positive health and community life - One Planet Living addresses all these challenges in the way their buildings are made and run."

Work is due to begin before the end of the year on the 162- apartment development, which will include roof allotments and wind turbines.

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/66/161136863_8906162dac_o.jpg

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/53/161136865_115f9f3db1_o.jpg

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/76/161136858_7fe8b6ff9c_o.jpg

Indeed elfabyanos it is the updated design, the one that was published in the insight city news was the old one.

What do you think of the Beetham tower plans?

I personally think that the proposed location of it is ideal for a modern, tall building and would be a bold welcoming statement to people arriving by train.

Does anyone know when the appeal is likely to be decided?

I heard soon but not sure of the exact date.

Agree the Beetham tower is in exactly the right location. I seriously worry bout the cladding on these ones - this one will look ok to begin with, just rekon in ten years time they'll look really dated. Good height though, and will definately make a statement for people like City Lloyds TSB types and American Amex employess that've just flown in from the USA.

The latest artists impression of the scheme is slightly different to the ones posted above, the argus has this one -

http://www.theargus.co.uk/_images/db/42/41/New_England_Qua_righton_4_.424101.full.jpg

Further good news for the city centre, the plans to expand Churchill square as part of the Brighton centre redevelopment are progressing along, this from the Brighton business forum website -

Churchill Square redevelopment moves closer

Property Week reported on 16th February that Standard Life – owners of Churchill Square – are poised to move forward on plans for a 23,200 sq metre expansion of the shopping centre which could also include a new international conference centre.

The development would effectively take Churchill Square right down to the seafront involving the demolition of the existing Brighton Centre (owned by the City Council) and the Kingswest building (owned by Standard Life).

Standard Life’s Head of UK Development – Danny McHugh – is reported as saying that decisions about the layout of the entire 12.6-hectare site could be made by August 2007 but public consultation and pre-planning is unlikely to be before February 2008 at the earliest.

Standard Life may be required to fund a replacement for the ageing Brighton Centre at a possible cost of £100m, which could be a stumbling block but balanced against this cost is the additional rental income that the new retail floorspace could provide and the enhancement of current Zone A rates of £175/ sq foot.


ECONOMIC PARTNERSHIP COMMENT

This development could be the answer to the city’s pressing need for a new conference centre and accommodate a retail expansion in the city, which the recent GVA Grimley Retail Study suggested could double retail turnover to £2.8bn

A planning application for the Brighton Centre will cost Standard Life millions of pounds to prepare and they will doubtless be taking a keen interest in the outcome of the King Alfred planning application expected to go before the planning committee shortly.

Further good news for the city centre, the plans to expand Churchill square as part of the Brighton centre redevelopment are progressing along, this from the Brighton business forum website -

Let's hope they do something with the current Churchill Sq area on Western Road.. it has aged badly and looks tacky and cheap.. and i feel that the mall itself feels very cramped and small once inside.. infact the whole of this part of Western Road could do with rebuild.. it looks very drab and rundown and Brighton deserves something better. Perhaps a enlarged Churchilll Sq will mean Brighton finally gets a few department stores.. House of Fraiser, John Lewis, Selfridges and Harvey Nichols are all missing and would probably do a roaring trade in a city like Brighton.

Yes I agree Western road needs a huge revamp, the buildings that line the street on the northern side between Waitrose and Topshop are actually quite grand large scale buildings, as seen here -

http://static.flickr.com/27/70877128_d6caba1c8d.jpg?v=0

http://static.flickr.com/20/70877141_d931c09d32.jpg?v=0

But on the southern side the units are too small to attract the big names and I feel it would be better to demolish/refurbish the entire south side of Western road, a recent retail report also suggested this.

Also regarding Churchill square, I wouldn't say the current shopping centre is that small but Brighton could most definately support an enlarged mall, the current mall provides around 500,000 sq ft (approx 45,000 sq m) of retail space, so this new extension would bring it up to around 70,000 sq m)
This extension (down towards the seafront) will surely mean Debenhams would have to relocate somewhere else as it currently stands in the way, as you can see in this picture -

http://www.imagesbrighton.com/images/f1333-7.jpg

Certainly Brighton needs more department stores, I think they should house one large department store on top of churchill square (western road end) as currently the building is way too low rise, and some key leaders in the city have called for putting an extra level or two of shopping on top of churchill square as well as extending it down to the seafront, so I reckon we could eventually see plans for an even bigger extension to the shopping centre as this whole scheme starts to progress.
As you can see here the current building is way too low rise -

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/50/138618948_0499b741fa.jpg?v=0

According to a recent report Brighton was ranked 6th in the country for retailers seeking outlets but the city currently doesn't have enough large retail units to accomodate them all, and according to a recent retail report some very big name stores including Harvey Nichols are interested in opening in the city, as are John Lewis and House of Fraser.

Other buildings that need redeveloping in the area are the building currently housing marks and spencers, it just looks nasty and cheap.

What does everyone think of this building though? (the slightly art deco ish one to the left) -

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/151/343858267_5d1b38a55a.jpg?v=0

I think this building would actually look quite attractive if it was painted white.

I think that building is rendered in stone, so best left as it is. It's a very attractive building. Across Western Road from Churchill looks fine because there is a good combination of buildings. The problem with redevelopment is uniformity. At present there is a range of periods and styles.

I agree that Churchill square is too low rise, but I think some residential would be good above the shops and a department store a bit further along on the south side of Western road. The problem with the new covered Churchill Square is that it drained the life out of Western Road. Debenhams and Virgin among others had large stores there. Hence a new large department store could complement the Dyas, Waitrose and Argos the have managed to survive.

The thing with shopping in Brighton is that it is quite spread out, stretching from one end of western road near waitrose eastwards past Churchill square and all the way down to the bottom of north street is quite some distance in shopping terms, then you have east street/the lanes area to the south of that and northwards is the north laine area stretching nearly all the way upto London road, so if any new department stores were to open in Brighton my guess is that they'd want to try and be as central to this area as possible, so I'm not sure that Western road (west of churchill square) would be as attractive as say somewhere like North street, which could definately be a potential site for a new department store, they could demolish some of the buildings on the south side of the street (between Burger king and TK Maxx) which are currently too small to attract the big retailers to make way for a large retail development.

Having said that though Primark are showing their confidence in Western road as they are eventually going to be moving westwards (away from Churchill square) along Western road into the former Littlewoods store which is much larger than their current premises, so hopefully this will encourage other retailers to open up in this area, and maybe even encourage development to the south side of the street.

Fair point. But interestingly, if you take Brighton & Hove as city, then the centre is actually along Western Road around the boundary. Besides like London Brighton has it's distinct districts such as George Street, Seven Dials, lanes, Marina, Church Road Hove, and so on, most of which could be explored on foot during a long weekend. What a great place!

One more point to add, is that Western Road was originally the premier shopping street of Brighton, much like Regent Street London is today. With some restoration and new development its grand buildings could be given their rightful context again.

As for North Street, it's traffic chocked and has comparitively narrow pavements in places, not a pleasant experience.


Thanks for all your photos by the way.

Here is an area of Western road in which I think could be demolished to make way for either a new department store or a new large scale building to house modern retail units.

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/157/402400324_225927789f_o.jpg


Also the Waitrose (which is part of the John Lewis group) building is a potential site for redevelopment, an idea could be to add a few floors on top of the current building and open a John Lewis above the supermarket - that would be fantastic.

Yes, exactly - excellent illustration. Between us I think we've sorted it. We should go easy on the Waitrose building though. I know that sixties architecture isn't fashionable right now, but with its stylish box windows and fine finish, that's probably one of the best examples in the area. It makes sense to utilise its potential, but only if sensitively done.

Why oh why didn't the council insist that Tescos build apartments above its fairly new store in Church Road? I know there's a church next door, but just couple of floors would've been enough for about twenty flats.

Pmun - just out of interest, what do you think will happen to London road, this used to be one of the main high streets in Brighton but it has fallen on hard times recently, do you think that with the New england quarter developments finally coming along that new life will now be injected to this part of town?

Personally I think London road would be an ideal site for tall buildings.

I think the New England quarter could help regenerate the area. A revamp of the open market could also make a difference. The closed Co-op department store should be converted into either flats or a hotel.

As for tall buildings, London Road is quite narrow, so they might overwhelm. But there is huge potential for skyscrapers further along in front of Preston Park. These should include substantial residential. You can't go wrong, it isn't a conservation area, there is no one living directly opposite (park) or behind (railway) and there are already medium rises with at least one of them derelict. This would also be a boost for London Road.

I agree that the site around Preston park would be ideal for tall buildings although an 8 storey office development was rejected last week due to it's height - the council seem to be against building tall in this area, also the 16 storey Endeavour tower was rejected in the same area a few years ago.

Preston circus I feel also would be suitable for a tall skyscraper or two, and would act as a bold statement for those arriving into the city centre by road.

Oh really I didn't know about the application or rejection. Perhaps with Brighton council you can go wrong! One of the contentions with the Endeavor site was that the stature of the viaduct should be preserved.

I can understand this concern to some extent, it is a wonderful viaduct. But I also think that people being able to live in well designed homes not built on green land is more important. As is the regeneration of London Road.

I really can't see any problem with the strip infront of Preston Park. I mean it's already surrounded by medium rise buildings anyway. Am I missing something, or are the council and NIMBY brigade bonkers?

Here is an area of Western road in which I think could be demolished to make way for either a new department store or a new large scale building to house modern retail units.

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/157/402400324_225927789f_o.jpg


Also the Waitrose (which is part of the John Lewis group) building is a potential site for redevelopment, an idea could be to add a few floors on top of the current building and open a John Lewis above the supermarket - that would be fantastic.

I'm not too keen on this idea. I do see the need to have larger floorplate stores in the area, but I think the idea of bulldozing the car parks at the back of churchill square a much better idea. This area above has a lot of character, even if it is a bit scruffy - a scruffyness that dissappears a hundred yards west anyway. Whereas the bit behind the Square had some character that was all but destroyed by the car parks. (I don't know where to put all the cars mind!)

Yes it does seem a shame to loose those older buildlings. But at present many of them remain either empty or full of bankcrupt and cutprice stock. It really looks tatty along there.

Loosing the carpark would be far to controversial for the thousands of car addicts who use it and is tucked away from the main street. Perhaps loosing the the buildings on the same side but nearer to Churchill square would be better.

But if it was a striking high-quality design (Birmingham Selfridges) it may be worth putting nostalgia to one side. But it would be a battle in Brighton. There are too many people here who want things to stay exactly as they are.

(I don't know where to put all the cars mind!)

Park and Ride! I can dream...

Perhaps loosing the the buildings on the same side but nearer to Churchill square would be better.


The problem with demolishing the buildings a bit further up is that they back onto clarence square (behind Western road) which is part of a conservation area, so I don't think this would be an option.

The problem with demolishing the buildings a bit further up is that they back onto clarence square (behind Western road) which is part of a conservation area, so I don't think this would be an option.

I can't believe that Clarence Sq is a conservation area? The area is a dump! I suppose some of the buildings around the square a quite pretty but nothing special..just basic b&b's and studios.. and the surrouding area.. Churchill Sq, Car Parks and Sussex Heights.. hardly does the area any favours.. Mabye the council were so worried about Churchill Sq being extended in the 60s and 70's they stuck a protection order on it to stop it happening?! :lol: I can't understand the council wanting to preserve areas like this when they are so run down and out of date.. I get the whole idea of conservation areas for places like Sussex Sq, Brunswick, the Palace Pier, the Pavillion.. and some parts of Kemp Town but the the rest is hardly unique..

And whats the deal with modern builds trying to mimic or reproduce the Victorian styles??.. like the the building at the clocktower.. and the disaster that sits above the sea life centre.. it just looks so cheap.. and anyone can tell that it is modern trying to look old.. It's like the council are so worried that new developments might look just that 'new'.. that they allow the developers to build bland pieces of crap..better that than something that provokes any type of reaction.. its such a waste.. did they ever find another use for the 2,000 capacity nightclub that sits next door to the sea life? I remember they couldn't get a licence because of the crowds and police objections.. but i never understood why the council let it get built in the first place?!

Mabye attitudes will change once the new towers go up at King Alfred and the marina.. people will see that modern can be great.. and mabye the council will get some back bone and do what is right for the city for a change.. Saying that though i tend to agree with them about the Beetham proposal.. it was just too bland.. no inspiration behind it.. like a dull version of Manchester's.. and even that looks bland from some angles.. instead of fighting this one they should go back to the drawing board.. i think if it was stunning enough they could get away with it being taller..

Right rant over.. :)

Yeah, I agree that the area behind Churchill square is a bit of a dump, I think part of the Brighton centre plans are to create a new pedestrian link between Western road and the seafront via cannon place, it would be good if they could somehow develop a new pedestrianised retail street in this area, maybe by demolishing a part of the car park and surrounding buildings this could be possible.

Here are some pics from around that area -

Sussex heights and Clarence square
http://static.flickr.com/13/93089557_ed12319002.jpg?v=0

The ugly churchill 2 car park and Chartwell court on cannon place
http://static.flickr.com/13/93089581_85ae4afbb5.jpg?v=0

In the argus tonight, there are plans to resurrect the Brighton tigers ice hockey team at the new international arena.

Brighton Tigers to roar back into action
By Lawrence Marzouk

Top-flight ice hockey is to return to Sussex with the comeback of the Brighton Tigers.

A deal has been struck to resurrect one of the UK's most successful ice hockey teams after a 40-year absence.

The team plans to play at the proposed £55 million international sports arena at Black Rock, Brighton, as part of the English Premier League.

The stadium would cater for up to 9,000 supporters and weekly audiences of between 4,000 and 6,000 people are predicted, raising millions of pounds for the city's economy.

The Tigers are also set to take on some of the best teams in Europe thanks to a deal with Geneva-Servette, one of Switzerland's top outfits.

Chris McSorley, coach and owner of the Swiss team, said: "The Brighton stadium is going to be the best in Europe and this team will be spoken about all over Europe."

Former ice-hockey player Marco Torriani, whose father was one of the leading stars with the Brighton Tigers in the Thirties, said: "I think Brighton could become a centre for the development of ice hockey in England, it is close to Europe, and Brighton has connections with ice sports.

"The arena is a great idea - I follow the football team and it might be that Brighton is more of an ice hockey town."

The project has been beset by a number of delays, with a number of deadlines missed for submitting planning applications.

But an application is expected imminently and the consortium behind the Brighton International Arena said it is hoped builders could be on site by the end of the year and the complex open in 2009.

David Pople, managing director of Brighton International Arena, said: "We expect an audience of 4,000 to 6,000 and it has a potential at full capacity to be just over 9,000.

"I am able to confirm that agreement has been reached in principle for the return of the much loved Brighton Tigers.

"This agreement is subject to the arena project gaining planning consent.

"Chris McSorley has been a great help in assisting with this process.

"As soon as practically possible after planning consent is achieved the BIA will be seeking to register the Brighton Tigers ice hockey team with the English Premier League"

Concerns have been raised about funding for the project and how thousands of spectators would travel to the stadium given the absence of parking on site.

Mr Pople said he could not comment on financing at the moment because of confidentiality agreements.

On transport, he said: "It is a requirement of our planning application to submit a full traffic impact assessment and travel plan.

"This will take account of the excellent existing public transportation services, supplementing them as required according to demand."

The Brighton Tigers are still fondly remembered by many people in Brighton even though they disappeared more than 40 years ago.

The club was based at the Brighton Sports Stadium on West Street, which closed in 1965, and was one of the country's best supported teams with 4,000 spectators at most matches which were held on a Thursday night.

Council leader Simon Burgess said: "I wouldn't be surprised if we got better attendance figures then the well established teams."

[QUOTE=Brighton boy;11935489]
Sussex heights and Clarence square
http://static.flickr.com/13/93089557_ed12319002.jpg?v=0

The main problem with Sussex heights is the haphazard balcony modifications. I've seen photos of it shortly after being built, it looked quite sleek.

In the Argus today:

Seafront recommended for French makeover
By Lawrence Marzouk

A seafront thoroughfare could be redesigned to mimic Paris's most illustrious boulevard.

A report has been released detailing how to improve Kingsway, Hove, by copying features from some of the world's great streets, including France's Champs Elysees.

The council-commissioned study forms part of the King Alfred planning application and investigates traffic problems and a lack of good pedestrians routes around the Frank Gehry redevelopment.

GEHL Architects, which is redesigning New Road, Brighton, describes the site as "isolated, traffic dominated and unsafe for pedestrians" and has made a raft of recommendations to cut traffic and improve walking in the city.

The report reads: "The lack of pedestrian traffic in the area suggest that King Alfred is isolated from other people destinations.

"Hove Station, George Street, and Brighton centre all feel' further away than they truly are.

"This is partly due to a pedestrian network that lacks quality.

"The site is perceived as an apparent dead end of Hove and located at the absolute edge of the city."

The Danish consultants believe that by introducing features from the Champs Elysees and other thriving thoroughfares this part of the seafront could be transformed.

Some of the proposals being put forward include more trees, cutting the width of the carriage way and creating a uninterrupted path for strollers.

The report reads: "Kingsway needs to be reorganised to indicate that people and vehicles are prioritised equally.

"Kingsway needs to be part of a high quality and safe related pedestrian network, integrating clear and simple pedestrian crossings and light signals."

The Champs Elysees has managed to keep high traffic flows while making the space more attractive for tourists and shoppers.

GEHL explains: "Champs Elysees, Paris, France - while maintaining high vehicular traffic flows, doing away with parking lanes made it possible to expand the footways on both side of the street from 12 to 24 metres.

"A simple, carefully detailed pavement of gray granite runs the entire length of the promenade, bringing calm and unity to the space."

Averil Older, Conservative councillor for Central Hove, said the report put forward some interesting if unoriginal ideas.

She said: "If the King Alfred is going to be built it has got to bring in some benefits to Hove.

"I have always said we need traffic claiming because the traffic goes much too fast, but when the development is up and running are the council going to pay for these measures?"

I quite like clarence square - it's a particular period. I'm not sure if it's early victorian or what, but it's style reminds me of various other places, one in Tunbridge Wells and one in Sevenoaks (scuse while I get a little sentimental....:cry: )

I quite like clarence square - it's a particular period.

Yes, you're right. In fact, so much of Brighton and Hove just exudes charm.

Thanks for the article Brighton Boy. It sounds good. I am very impressed with the work done on New Road, but very dissapointed in Palmeria Square and the floral clock. What a waisted opportunity. There are pavements that don't seem to go anywhere. It's awkward to get around with a push chair. And it's still basically a very nice traffic rounderbout with vehicle priority. It's also one of the most beautiful areas of our city and would be considerably better if it wasn't so cut off.

Right, here's another development site, this building used to house the Grosvenor casino on Queens road next to the station but they have moved down onto the seafront and so this building currently lies empty.

The building has recently been acquired for the Accor hotels group who wanted to demolish the current building and open a 147 bedroom Ibis hotel on the site, in a building that would have been 11 stories high, this proposal was rejected by the council for being a poor design.

Hopefully they will come back with an improved design which will be accepted as Brighton currently lacks large budget hotels.
Also it will improve the streetscape as what is there currently is way too low rise compared to the rest of the buildings on the street.

The site today -

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/132/413881121_4958a6461d.jpg?v=0

The 10/11 storey building at the new england quarter next to the station is finally revealed.

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/165/411679348_ea2e0df10a.jpg?v=0

I'm quite pleasantly suprised by this, it actually looks pretty good in my opinion, much better than I thought it would turn out, I like the way it hugs the corner of the street, and it certainly makes a big impression as you walk up new england street.

The 42 storey beetham tower proposal (if approved) would rise up directly in front of the office building on the far right of the pic below.

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/153/411679232_2fcd3ca0b7.jpg?v=0

Did Beetham decide to redesign the proposed tower or are they still sticking to the original boxy design? If they proposed something unique and original i think there would be less opposition to the scheme.. the area is perfect for a tower being so close to the station and would act as a real landmark for the city.. just a shame its so bland and boxlike in its current state.. If they are pushing ahead with the original design does anyone know what will happen next? Beetham have a reputation for getting their projects off the gorund and rising pretty fast, the tower in Manchester shot right up in no time..

Did Beetham decide to redesign the proposed tower or are they still sticking to the original boxy design? If they proposed something unique and original i think there would be less opposition to the scheme.. the area is perfect for a tower being so close to the station and would act as a real landmark for the city.. just a shame its so bland and boxlike in its current state.. If they are pushing ahead with the original design does anyone know what will happen next? Beetham have a reputation for getting their projects off the gorund and rising pretty fast, the tower in Manchester shot right up in no time..

They have stuck to their original design and are waiting for the verdict on their appeal, which should be announced very soon.

Maybe if it is refused then they will go away and come back with a more original design, we shall see.

I was annoyed by the arrogant note on their website. It went something like "We are dissapointed by their decision, obviously they have something irrelevent against us/tall buildings, even though they have just approved a tall building in the city, we cannot see that maybe our design is just s**t"

Excellent news on the redevelopment of the Brighton centre in the Argus today, no images as of yet but the news is very encouraging indeed.

Brighton Centre to get £250m investment
By Lawrence Marzouk
A £250 million revamp of the Brighton Centre is to put the city in competition for the world's most lucrative conferences, The Argus can reveal.

Town Hall bosses have decided to sidestep growing competition from other conference centres by creating a high-tech, luxurious complex to rival venues around the globe.

The 25,000sqm venue will aim to attract the biggest names in business.

It will cater for conferences of up to 1,500 delegates and will offer more exhibition space and bigger banqueting facilities than the current site.

A four or five-star hotel with more than 300 rooms is also planned, as well as an extension to Churchill Square shopping centre, creating space for a department store.

The news emerged as the South East England Development Agency (Seeda) confirmed it was investing about £25 million in the centre's re-development.

The existing Brighton Centre opened in 1977 but has lost ground to bigger and more modern venues across the country, leading to a downturn in trade for hotels and other businesses, especially in midweek.

For the past decade the council has failed to secure the long-term future of the centre.

But The Argus understands the council is to announce a deal with Standard Life, owners of neighbouring Kingswest and Churchill Square, after a successful meeting in Edinburgh earlier this year.

The scheme will create hundreds of jobs and is expected to generate hundreds of millions of pounds for the city's economy.

City council leader Simon Burgess said the centre was the city's "number one" economic priority He said: "We are looking to attract the sort of organisations that go to Dubai, Barcelona or Cologne at the moment. All of the evidence shows we are the right place to get into that market because the city is close to Gatwick and Brighton and has a special kudos internationally.

"It will be high quality and high-tech to attract international associations such as the New York Bartenders Association and some of the biggest information technology companies such as Apple and Microsoft. If they want something in Europe, they may choose here. It will be a unique experience for British conference centres and a landmark building."

The scheme should be completed in time for the London Olympics in 2012. It is expected to dovetail with the Brighton International Arena development at Black Rock, which will provide conference space while the centre is being rebuilt.

Chris Moore, Seeda's head of land and property, said: "A new comprehensive and thoroughly sustainable development will ensure Brighton is re-established as one of the leading convention centre destinations, both in the UK and in Europe."

The news that SEEDA has confirmed it is to invest 25 million in the scheme now paves the way for this development to go ahead. :)

Also good to see that a new department store will be included within the scheme, this will fill a huge gap in Brighton's retail offer.

Is this the same building that has the Event nightclub in? I know the Event had its last night on saturday and is being replaced by an Oceana but I was under the impression that the whole building was going to be rebuilt.

Is this the same building that has the Event nightclub in? I know the Event had its last night on saturday and is being replaced by an Oceana but I was under the impression that the whole building was going to be rebuilt.

It is indeed, the Event club is housed in the Kingswest building which will be demolished under these plans, it seems a bit pointless really refurbing the nightclub only for it to be knocked down a year or two later.

I wonder why the event is having a referb? This is worrying.. let's hope they are not just planning a referb for the whole building as that would be a disaster.. same with churchill sq.. don't you think that they only done a half assed job on that.. they could have achieved so much more.. as for the Brighton centre this is great news.. i presume the big gigs will be move to either the Black Rock venue or Famer (if it ever happens)? As for the shopping centre, the confrence centre and now hotel it seems they must be planning to build up with this scheme.. will a new odeon be included in the plans? a new nightclub? it will be interesting to see how this one plans out.. i remember seeing two proposed schemes for the site.. one was awuful and went out over the kingsway on to the beach and looked like something thought up in the 70's/80's.. the other was a kick ass huge tower which was stunning but the image soon vanished.. who knows i just hope its something that provokes a reaction and not something bland..

Don't worry they are definately demolishing the Kingswest building, it has been stated many times in the past and would certainly need replacing if they are to fit everything onto the site.

As for Churchill square shopping centre - this will be extended down to the seafront, maybe with an extra level on top.

The Event having a refurb is rather odd though, maybe luminar leisure (who own the nightclub) aren't aware of the development plans? lol I suppose as this development won't be starting for around another 2 years or so (they have to wait for the international arena to be built first) it is probably still worth their while to refurb the club as it is looking very dated inside.

A tall building is almost certainly part of the plans, and as this is a prime site in the city I expect to see a building of exceptional quality proposed here, this location doesn't deserve anything less.

Thanks, I was sure it was the same building. I went to the event on saturday for the last night (don't ask) and they were promoting the refurb so much. If the Oceana is to be the same as the ones in Kingston and MK then it will be an expensive club, so it is definitely a strange one.

News regarding the I360 observation tower from the BBC.

Tallest tower given first award

A planned building, set to be one of the tallest in the UK, has won its first award, before it is built.
Work on the £20m Brighton i360 observation spire, on the site of the Sussex city's derelict West Pier, is due to begin later this year.

It will rise 183m (600ft) and give visitors views of up to 25 miles.

The structure has been selected as one of the best examples of innovation from this year's MIPIM Architectural Review Future Projects Award 2007.

The awards look at how projects work within their urban setting.

Judges said they were particularly impressed by the sustainable use of wind turbines at the top of the i360, which will provide 20% of the power required by the attraction.

The tower has been designed by the architects of the London Eye, and is expected to open to the public in 2009.

It will hold up to 200 people in an enclosed pod, giving them 360 degree views out to Bognor in the west and Eastbourne in the east.

During a 20-minute ride, the observation pod - which is more than nine times the size of a London Eye capsule - will rise gradually to a height of 456ft (139m).

http://www.westpier.co.uk/I360/images/image3_bg.jpg

About time pool valley is given a makeover the current coach facilities are quite frankly an embarrassment to our city.

From the Brighton business forum -

For people arriving in Brighton by coach Pool Valley will provide a first and lasting impression of the city. However, this run-down and semi-derelict area is not at all representative of the vibrant city that Brighton has become. Thankfully this is about to change.

Brighton & Hove City Council and National Express have put forward plans to give Pool Valley a facelift. An outline of the proposed new scheme will go to the city council’s environment committee on 15 March and if they give it their approval then council officers will draw up more detailed plans and begin consulting the public.

If the plans get the go-ahead then the streets leading to Pool Valley will be improved, new street lighting will be installed, new seating built, trees planted, tourist information boards erected, the way buses use the space will be reorganised and the effect that the semi-derelict buildings have on the area will be examined.

Chair of the environment committee Cllr Gill Mitchell said: “I’m pleased these plans have come to the committee for consideration. I think people would like to see Pool Valley improved and made a generally more pleasant, friendly place to be. It’s in a fantastic location and has great potential to be a welcoming, useful public space.”

The scheme is a partnership project between the city council and National Express, with National Express responsible for providing a new ticket office with a waiting room and toilets.

If the environment committee approves the plans then work will begin immediately to produce a design that will form the basis for the consultation.

Pool Valley: This historic space has been blighted ever since it was used as a bus terminus. If the City/transport authorities are really serious about a makeover, the bus terminal should be relocated. Pool Valley could then be a wonderful place as with many of Brighton's other smaller public spaces in the Lanes etc.

Perhaps a relocated bus terminal could be integrated into the base of the new conference centre to replace the Kingswest, or at a location adjacent to the station?

Looks like Summer's arrived early guys, God I love this city! :)

These taken with my phone camera on Sunday afternoon (11/03/07), apologies for the quality -

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/162/417863957_40ebb7aaac.jpg?v=0

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/150/417863592_7ea5a630df.jpg?v=0

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/170/417863475_1beaa58ce6.jpg?v=0

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/154/417863377_057e3a8a3d.jpg?v=0

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/168/417863220_45f4a46d1d.jpg?v=0

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/186/417863123_00a2f265c2.jpg?v=0

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/161/417863032_bc89f5be23.jpg?v=0

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/165/417862933_9bc4c2c7da.jpg?v=0

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/151/417862829_dce924e1a0.jpg?v=0

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/154/417862624_67d20d174a.jpg?v=0

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/166/417862535_74df39d4bd.jpg?v=0

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/163/417862275_6e47c1cc39.jpg?v=0

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/130/417862180_b9fc6814fc.jpg?v=0

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/174/417857547_238e228673.jpg?v=0

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/129/417857417_7f0d482d1e.jpg?v=0

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/145/417857200_c46e51c602.jpg?v=0

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/154/417864026_927c45238c.jpg?v=0

Pool Valley: This historic space has been blighted ever since it was used as a bus terminus. If the City/transport authorities are really serious about a makeover, the bus terminal should be relocated. Pool Valley could then be a wonderful place as with many of Brighton's other smaller public spaces in the Lanes etc.

Perhaps a relocated bus terminal could be integrated into the base of the new conference centre to replace the Kingswest, or at a location adjacent to the station?

Interesting you say that as I was thinking that myself, they could have easily included a new coach station as part of the plans for the new england quarter although National express would probably much prefer a location as near to the beach as possible (for visitors), so maybe the brighton centre site would be ideal although I can't see it happening.

Pool Valley isn't too bad though (it does its job) and with a makeover including a new building housing a ticket office, waiting room, toilets etc the coach terminal will be much improved.

Brighton Boy - You probably took a photo of me in there somewhere on the seafront! The weather has been so good recently! Lunching outside in the fresh air again today.

Beetham Brighton, a few (I believe) unseen models:

http://www.pipers.co.uk/media/models/020207124340_122_122_1_122_2_122_3.jpg

http://www.pipers.co.uk/media/models/020207124340_122_122_1_122_2.jpg

http://www.pipers.co.uk/media/models/020207124340_122_122_1_122_2_122_3_122_4.jpg

http://www.pipers.co.uk/media/models/020207124340_122_122_1.jpg

Cheers for those Newcastle guy, I have to say that whilst it may not be the most striking design it most certainly isn't ugly and I for one would be very happy indeed if this were to get the go ahead.

The model looks great - what exactly is the status of the project at the moment?

The model looks great - what exactly is the status of the project at the moment?

The project is at appeal against the council's decision to rejected it a while ago, we should hear the outcome of the appeal very soon.

Next Friday councillors will decide on whether to give the King Alfred scheme the go ahead, this is potentially the final chapter in this long running saga.

Although if it is rejected (which is a real possibility) I suspect this will go to appeal and we could see this drag on and on for a long time yet.

News regarding the I360 observation tower from the BBC.



http://www.westpier.co.uk/I360/images/image3_bg.jpg

Looks rivetting......
http://mud.mm-a7.yimg.com/image/3948479787

From the Argus -

First pictures inside King Alfred centre

Developers today released the first pictures showing how the £290 million King Alfred leisure centre would look on the inside.

Developer Karis wants to build 751 homes and a new sports complex to replace the run-down leisure centre on Hove seafront which dates back to the Thirties.

If councillors approve the plans next Friday, it would become the first project to be built in England by Frank Gehry, the man who created Bilbao's famous Guggenheim Museum.

John Barrow Managing Director of HOK, the company which designed the centre in partnership with Mr Gehry, said: "We were given the most demanding brief - design a sports facility that could accommodate a full range of sports, be used for leisure pursuits as well as serious sport enthusiasts.

"It also had to provide floors that could be raised and lowered in the two main pools to accommodate all potential uses and abilities, include a fitness area, two multi-use sport halls, areas for spectators, cafe, maximize sea views and work with Frank Gehry to produce a stunning design."

Jack Wilkinson, an adviser to the Sussex County Sports Partnership who worked for Sport England when the brief was drawn up, has endorsed the proposals along with several sports coaches and swimming clubs.

But architect Nick Lomax, who helped design Brighton's award-winning Jubilee Library, launched a scathing attack on the King Alfred, likening the project to "the emperor's new clothes".

Mr Lomax, who will give a speech to members of Brighton and Hove Chamber of Commerce tonight, said: "Gehry might be one of the most famous architects in the world but the proposed development at King Alfred is just far too dense for that site.

"There are too many homes. But with the brief he was given - even the best architects would be doomed to fail. I am afraid we just need to start from scratch."

He also questioned Karis's costings for the project.

"They say the swimming pool is going to cost £48 million but you should be able to do it for half that price. That's about £5,000 per square metre.

"If I was Mayor of Brighton I'd bin it. It's a case of the emperor's new clothes."

In January Mr Lomax gave his backing to a consortium, led by millionaire entrepreneur Mike Holland, proposing an alternative scheme for the leisure centre.

They came up with plans offering a maximum 450 homes, an Olympic-sized swimming pool and bowling facilities which would come in at £25 million.

The proposals were backed Conservative councillors but the ruling labour party said it was "too late" to be coming up with new ideas with a planning meeting imminent.

Josh Arghiros, managing director of Karis, accused Mr Lomax of opportunism.

He said: "The brief we were given was categoric in its requirements.

"Gehry and ourselves took that brief and carried out 18 months of consultation with all sections of the community before coming up with our designs.

"And, it is important to stress this, we have the community on our side - despite the representations of a vitriolic and vocal minority."

Meanwhile the city's Tories have called on the council to postpone its March 23 meeting to rule on the planning application until after the May local elections.

Party leader Brian Oxley said: "This whole thing is so controversial I believe it would be better taken after the elections. We have waited years to reach this stage, a few more weeks will not hurt anyone."

Thanks Brighton Boy for the update. Fingers crossed for the King Alfred Ctr, perhaps a contemporary art gallery should be added to the recreational centre?

A contemporary art gallery would be good, but this is where it's at ;) - a purple upside down cow.

http://www.underbelly.co.uk/edinburgh/2006/gallery/source/image/udderbelly_099.jpg

The Udderbelly is a temporary venue coming to Brighton's Old Steine as part of the Brighton festival in May, and is the first time it has travelled away from Edinburgh, I can't wait! :D

From the Gazette of March 18th:

King Alfred plans set for approval
By Lawrence Marzouk
Town hall officials have recommended the controversial King Alfred redevelopment be given the go-ahead.

But the £290 million Frank Gehry project faces Brighton and Hove City Council's planning committee this Friday in its final hurdle - and the vote looks to be finely poised.

Developer Karis wants to build 751 homes and a new sports complex to replace the run-down leisure centre on Hove seafront which dates back to the 1930s.

Opponents of the scheme have criticised the planning recommendation after it emerged the approval is subject to 86 conditions being fulfilled.

Averil Older, councillor for Central Hove, said the scheme should not be given the green light while so many questions remained unanswered.

She said: "It baffles me that we have gone this far through the planning process and that it has been readvertised five times and it still takes 86 conditions before the officers can give it approval.

"That this has come forward with 86 conditions makes a mockery of the planning process.

"It means that officers will be responsible for deciding whether this major plan is approved and I do not think that is democratic."

The viewpoint was echoed by Valerie Paynter, of the anti-King Alfred group Save Hove.

She said: "Developers do not follow conditions through and it puts power in the hands of the developers."

Councillor Simon Burgess, leader of the council, dismissed the criticism.

He said: "The number of conditions just shows how diligently the council is taking the issue and if there were no conditions those who are complaining would be the first to say that deals were being done behind closed doors."

The conditions range from the continued involvement of world-renowned architect Frank Gehry to anti-wind measures being introduced.

Green councillor Keith Taylor said that the planning panel faced a difficult balancing act.

He said: "We have been behind the principle of delivering new sports facilities paid for by housing at King Alfred since day one.

"We believed the original designs by architect Frank Gehry were exciting and would have been a stunning addition to the city.

"Additionally we were able to secure sustainable improvements and an extra £1m for a seafront bus.

"However, in our party's view the ever increasing demands for a more intense development of this constrained site have resulted in too much being asked from too small an area.

"Councillors on the planning committee will have to consider the application on its strengths and weaknesses.

"They'll have a difficult job deciding if the adverse impacts of the development are outweighed by its positive aspects."

Plans to include a doctor's surgery have also been dealt a blow after the city's Primary Care Trust (PCT) revealed the 257 square metres being offered is too small.

In its submission, the PCT reveals: "The area surrounding the development is already overstretched in terms of being able to provide services to meet local health needs and the proposal would exacerbate this.

The PCT would support provision in the King Alfred development if it was of sufficient size to relocate existing services and provide capacity for projected growth (approx 1,600 square metres).

"It is disappointing that the revised scheme only allows for 257 square metres which is insufficient to locate a primary care facility that is fit for purpose for the future to accommodate not only existing services, but also the increased range in services the PCT is planning to relocate from hospitals."

It'll be very interesting indeed to see how the vote goes on Friday for the King alfred.

This from the Argus today, good news on our proposed RTS -

Super-buses set for Sussex
By Lawrence Marzouk

Work on a £52 million transport project which will slash journey times in Brighton and Hove is to start as early as next April - two years ahead of schedule.

The Argus can also reveal that plans to expand the Rapid Transport System (RTS) have been drawn up to run high-speed buses to Shoreham Airport in the west and Newhaven in the east.

The initial £12 million phase has been moved up the list of regional transport priorities after other projects in the South East fell behind schedule.

Buses will run between Brighton railway station, which will be the central stop, American Express, the Royal Sussex County Hospital and the Marina. Heading west, the route will take in the Brighton Centre, the i360 and the King Alfred.

Hove railway station has also been pencilled in as an extension to the scheme.

These limited number of stops, station-like platforms and a mile of dedicated RTS roads are predicted to cut journey times and encourage public transport.

Articulated buses were originally planned for the project but have been dropped after failing to win over the public in London.

The new network will take up to three years to complete but some sections of the route could be running much earlier.

It is hoped the scheme will tempt 1,600 cars off the road at peak times and increase public transport use by 2,000 people during the same period.

The council's transport model predicts that without a RTS in place the city would grind to a halt in 2010 with the capacity of the road network exceeding its limit by 16 per cent.

Officers are now in talks with the Department for Transport (DfT) to secure funding for the first phase of the project.

Councillor Gill Mitchell, chairwoman of Brighton's environment committee, said she was pleased the South East England Regional Assembly (SEERA) had decided to bring the scheme forward.

She said: "We have just kept reminding people that we are ready to go with the Rapid Transport System.

"We have obviously been moved up the list because we can deliver and we have got these big developments all along the seafront and this will help link them up.

"We are also talking to neighbouring authorities about extending the service to Shoreham and Newhaven."

A £40 million extension to the Brighton and Hove service is slated for 2015, when the bus service could run from a park-and-ride car park in Shoreham Airport to Newhaven.

A council spokesman said: "It will be a bus system that stops at key destinations, more like a tube than a normal bus.

"Obviously we don't have any pictures yet but the RTS buses will be distinguishable form city buses and will have their own recognisable look.

"Interest in expanding the scheme to Shoreham has been expressed but nothing has been decided.

"The scheme would be able to expand in any number of directions - along the coast or even up into East Sussex.

"SEERA is willing to bring the scheme forward for a 2008/09 start, which is great news, but the DfT still needs to assess the scheme and give us their approval.

"If the bid is successful, progressing the scheme would still be subject to councillors formally accepting the funding."

A number of options had been considered before moving ahead with the RTS scheme, including trams and a monorail.

But the council's decision was vindicated in a Government report, released earlier this month, which revealed that bus rapid transit schemes offer many of the benefits of tram networks at half the cost.

Senior councillors had originally planned a more ambitious transit system linking a park-and-ride scheme in north Brighton but the plan had to be scrapped when councillors rejected a park-and-ride scheme at Patcham.

I really do hope the Gehry King's Alfred project goes ahead.. i acn't quite believe just how much opposition there has been towards it.. though its mostly just local nimbys and those who fear change.. in fairness Brighton's history with highrises isn't that great so it figures that there is reluctance towards this scheme.. fingers crossed it finally gets the go ahead.. am i right in thinking it will be Gehry's first project in England? I was also wondering why there ahven't been any high quality renders of the project.. just seems to be mostly models.. perhaps they are holding these back because they are worried it might cause even more opposition from the conservatives of Hove.. shame really because the area as it stands is very drab..

If Gehry's past projects are anything to go by it will look stunning!

The Dancing House Prague

http://i151.photobucket.com/albums/s128/kristen_irja/P1000413.jpg

The Guggenheim Bilbao

http://i45.photobucket.com/albums/f56/laneeaho/Guggenheim20Bilbao202.jpg

Walt Disney Concert Hall LA

http://i135.photobucket.com/albums/q160/sunnysundaesmile/07_03_Los_Angeles/IMG_0731.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v237/milnerpaul/America%20Photos/DSC02147.jpg

Ray and Maria Stata Center, MIT, Cambridge, Massachusetts

http://i93.photobucket.com/albums/l77/mahounoai/Nicole%20at%20Graduation/6932d99d.jpg

Whoops... I'm sorry i didn't realise these pictures would be so huge.. anyone know how i can resize them?

I really do hope the Gehry King's Alfred project goes ahead.. i acn't quite believe just how much opposition there has been towards it.. though its mostly just local nimbys and those who fear change.. in fairness Brighton's history with highrises isn't that great so it figures that there is reluctance towards this scheme.. fingers crossed it finally gets the go ahead.. am i right in thinking it will be Gehry's first project in England? I was also wondering why there ahven't been any high quality renders of the project.. just seems to be mostly models.. perhaps they are holding these back because they are worried it might cause even more opposition from the conservatives of Hove.. shame really because the area as it stands is very drab..

If Gehry's past projects are anything to go by it will look stunning!


You're right, this will be Gehrys first project in England, that's if it does get the go ahead.
Fingers crossed but like I say I won't be suprised if it gets rejected, labour will vote for the scheme and the conservatives will all vote against, the whole project will effectively be decided on the votes by the greens and lib dem members of the planning committee.

I live right next to the king alfred so I would be in an ideal location to see this beauty rise over the next few years!

Brighton station looks like it could get a major revamp, this from the Argus -

Passengers 'could get hurt waiting for trains'
By Lawrence Marzouk

Railway bosses have warned that a Sussex station is getting so overcrowded it is only a matter of time before people start to get hurt waiting for trains.

Trains will be delayed and health and safety rules breached if a revamp of the concourse and platforms at Brighton station are not agreed with the rail industry.

In a letter to the South East England Regional Assembly (SEERA), Network Rail reveals that Sussex's busiest station is close to capacity.

It has urged SEERA to include a redevelopment of Brighton station in the region's 20-year planning blueprint.

In the next 20 years, passenger numbers are expected to rocket by 26 per cent in the region, pushing the number of journeys to and from Brighton station up by 2.6 million a year.

Major housing developments are being built across the city, including the New England Quarter which will be home to 355 houses or flats.

A Rapid Transport System will also link Brighton station with thousands of new passengers at Brighton Marina and King Alfred, if the scheme is passed.

The high-speed buses will cut journey times across the city, encouraging more people to commute from Brighton station.

In its submission to the South East plan, Network Rail revealed: "This is a station that is important for links across the coast and the sub-region and additionally for inter-regional links to London and beyond.

"The station is close to its pedestrian capacity and without enhancement to cope with growth, the station will likely suffer from health and safety problems as well as operational inefficiency.

"A congested concourse and platforms leads to increased dwell times for trains, which in turn causes delays all along the route and disruption to the wider network at junctions."

Sharon Hedges, railway watchdog Passenger Focus manager, said: "We do realise that there will be significant growth in passenger numbers in Brighton, as one of the hubs of activity, and we would support any measures to get further improvements for Brighton station."

Network Rail hopes that developers and the rail industry will pay for the multimillion pound project.

The railway infrastructure company believes that growth and demand for rail travel will be concentrated on the Brighton mainline to London and is calling for the scheme to be made a priority.

A spokesman for Network Rail said the station does not suffer significant problems at the moment but that housing and employment growth in the city will need to be addressed.

He said: "As the population of Brighton is predicted to keep growing in the future, Network Rail is exploring long-term options at several locations in the Sussex area for station enhancement schemes, although no specific scheme has been identified for Brighton itself at this time.

"Network Rail will commence work on its Sussex Route Utilisation Strategy in early 2008.

"This will review capacity, including at stations, along the Brighton Main Line as well as the wider Sussex area."

Southern Railway, which manages the station, said: "Southern can only make minor changes to the station and we currently have the station configured to produce maximum efficiency during the busy peak periods.

"There is no doubt that passenger usage of the railway will increase significantly over the next ten years or so, and, should Network Rail decide to develop the station in the future, there is no doubt that the train operator managing the station at the time will be consulted."

http://static.flickr.com/20/70875637_4b3e192fbd.jpg?v=0

http://static.flickr.com/34/70875615_e20998f8a0.jpg?v=0

Well here we go guys Friday is getting ever closer and things are shaping up to be quite dramatic, I would have gone along to Hove town hall if I wasn't at work. It looks like the whole project hinges on one Lib Dem councillors vote.

Late bid to push King Alfred plans through
By Lawrence Marzouk
An offensive has been launched to convince wavering members of a planning committee to back the controversial King Alfred redevelopment.

Brighton and Hove City Council's planning committee will decide on Friday whether the £290 million Frank Gehry proposal for Hove seafront is given the green light.

The vote is on a knife edge and business leaders predict Lib Dem leader David Watkins' decision could be pivotal.

advertisementSimon Fanshawe, chairman of Brighton and Hove Economic Partnership Members, is asking company bosses across the city to contact Councillor Watkins.

Developer Karis wants to build 751 homes and a sports complex to replace the rundown leisure centre on Hove seafront.

Although members of planning committees are not allowed to vote along party lines and must consider the application on its planning merits, the business partnership believes that five Labour councillors will vote for the scheme and five Conservatives and one Green against.

If Coun Watkins votes for the development it will be down to Labour councillor Leslie Hamilton to use his casting vote as chairman - almost certainly pushing the project through.

Mr Fanshawe said: "The single Liberal Democrat vote on the planning committee is unknown but it is vitally important that they support the planning application.

"The King Alfred development, which goes before the planning committee on March 23, represents extraordinary value for the city delivering more than £80 million in community benefit from a site worth just £11 million."

Green councillors claimed yesterday that parents who move into the King Alfred development face a fight to find school places for their children if controversial plans are given the go-ahead.

Coun Keith Taylor, the Green Party convenor, is warning of an "education black hole" after it emerged that just £400,000 of the £1.2 million requested for schools by the council will be released by developer Karis.

Josh Arghiros, managing director of Karis, said that far from shortchanging education in the city, the real contribution to schools is closer to £3.5 million.

He said: "This is the largest contribution towards education and training in the history of the city."

He also hit back at claims by the city's Primary Care Trust (PCT) that the on-site doctors' surgery is too small, adding that it would be able to house two GPs.

Councillor Keith Taylor, the Green Party convenor, said: "Our group's view is that there are simply too many elements of the King Alfred plan that still need working out properly to give it the go-ahead this week"

But Pat Hawkes, chairwoman of the council's children, families and school committee, said she supported the scheme because of the new sport facilities and extra affordable housing.

She said: "It is a pretty abysmal offer by them but I believe there is still room for negotiation over it."

*The planning meeting starts at 2pm at Hove Town Hall and due to space constraints, an audio link is being set up in the banqueting suite.

Tickets for entry to the public gallery and banqueting suite will be issued by staff at Hove Town Hall foyer from 1pm on a first come, first served and one ticket per person basis.

For up-to-the-minute updates from the meeting visit www.theargus.co.uk on Friday.

Well here we go guys Friday is getting ever closer and things are shaping up to be quite dramatic, I would have gone along to Hove town hall if I wasn't at work. It looks like the whole project hinges on one Lib Dem councillors vote.

So, even Labour councillors are saying the developers' financial contribution to schools in the area is "abysmal," while the Primary Care Trust have said that a doctors' surgery for a development this size needs to be 1600 sq ft - and the developers have offered 257 sq ft.

I can't believe anyone genuinely concerned with modern architecture actually being embraced by communities (rather than imposed on them) would want this to go through - while the towers have obviously got a lot of panache to them, all the development as a whole is going to do is sour a generation in Brighton on high-rises. The sad thing is , it doesn't have to be this way - look at the Marina for proof.

Apparently it's going to be a yes:

http://www.theargus.co.uk/display.var.1281221.0.its_a_yes_to_towers.php

The Labour members on the Planning Committee will vote yes, the Tories no, the one Liberal Democrat yes, the one Green no, but Leslie Hamilton, who has the casting vote, will vote yes and win the day for the go-ahead. However, I would expect the antis to appeal.

Don't often sign in and post but time for the dancing bananas!!!

Yea! F**king Yea!!

:banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana:

Another set of 4 bananas when we hear the tories are not appealing.. (Is that very likely!!??)

Hold your horses, it is in no way guarenteed that they will vote according to what the Argus say.

Sorry...
I retract the dancing bananas. (Temporarily I hope!)
Counting chickens and all that...
Surely pretty positive though? The Argus wouldn't risk their reputation on delivering an incorrect headline if they wern't sure it was 99% likely though would they? They must have some very reliable sources. Leslie Hamilton himself maybe?

Well it has been confirmed!!! The King Alfred scheme has been given the go ahead.

I can't believe we are finally at this stage after all these years. (bananas come dance with me)

You are right Brighton breezy, the Argus must have been very sure but still it was extremely brave of them to publish the expected decision before councillors had even got out of bed this morning!

The vote went exactly how the Argus said it would.

^^ Fantastic News!! Can't wait to see this amazing project come to fruition.
Just the Falmer Stadium to go and it will be a clean sweep.

http://www.thekingalfred.org/_images/_models/2006-1.jpg

Can't wait to see these two beauties rise!

Great news! I took my daughter (one year) swimming today at the Prince Regent. When she's older I can take her here.

Along with the Wilkinson Eyre tower, Sussex University, The Royal Pavillion, Brunswick Square, Lewes Crescent, Palmeria Square, Hove's Avenue grid, Embassy Court, the lanes, Brighton eye and Brighton train station, this will put Brighton & Hove on the map as one of the most dynamic and bold cities in Europe outside London.

To comment on the decision go to:

http://www.theargus.co.uk/display.var.1283563.0.0.php

Great news! I took my daughter (one year) swimming today at the Prince Regent. When she's older I can take her here.

Along with the Wilkinson Eyre tower, Sussex University, The Royal Pavillion, Brunswick Square, Lewes Crescent, Palmeria Square, Hove's Avenue grid, Embassy Court, the lanes, Brighton eye and Brighton train station, this will put Brighton & Hove on the map as one of the most dynamic and bold cities in Europe outside London.



Don't forget the new Brighton centre development, which is one of, if not the most important new project planned for Brighton and indeed the south east region. :)

Don't forget the new Brighton centre development, which is one of, if not the most important new project planned for Brighton and indeed the south east region. :)

That's true Brighton boy, especially if it's a decent tower. That would be the crowning glory. I really hope the Allies and Morrison station tower gets through as well. In the renders it looks great next to the station.

From the Argus - as expected the anti brigade will try and push for a judicial review, but I guess that was to be expected.

Towers decision 'one of momentous ever taken'
By Lawrence Marzouk

The city is coming to terms with one of the most momentous decisions ever taken in Brighton and Hove.

The first phase of the £290 million King Alfred redevelopment could now be open in two years time - after more than four decades wait.

Frank Gehry's controversial plans were approved last night by the narrowest of margins as The Argus revealed yesterday.

One councillor even dubbed us 'Mystic Meg' as our prediction was proved right.

Brighton and Hove will now be graced with a landmark building by one of the world's most renowned architects.

The plans for the crumbling Hove seafront leisure centre were not without their detractors, but last night a partner at the architect's firm in Los Angeles said it was one of best projects the illustrious team had accomplished to date.

Craig Webb said: "We have all worked very hard to create this and we think it will become an iconic piece of architecture.

"It is one of the highest quality projects we have accomplished so far."

The current sports centre is likely to close at the end of the year with the new state-of-the art facility opening in 2009 and the 751 flats in 2012.

All five Conservative councillors voted against the proposal at the planning meeting at Hove town hall, along with the Green member of the panel, Sue Paskins.

The five Labour members backed the scheme and Liberal Democrat councillor David Watkins' support for the proposal tied the votes, six all.

The decision was passed on the casting vote of the planning committee's chairman, Labour councillor Leslie Hamilton.

The scheme is Mr Gehry's first in England and Josh Arghiros, director of developer Karis, said it would establish the city as a cultural hub.

He said: "I am ecstatic - it is a big day for Brighton and Hove.

"It has been four years of hard work from lots of people and it will turn Brighton and Hove into the cultural city of Britain."

Council leader Simon Burgess said the decision would have wide reaching ramifications.

He said: "This is such good news for the future of the city.

"We would have been quite the laughing stock had we turned this amazing opportunity down.

"This now gives us good leverage with all the other sites we want to develop in the future."

Lib Dem Coun Watkins revealed that although he was not won over by the design of the building he believed it was right for the city.

He said: "I think the Marina building is absolutely magnificent and we will have the i360, which will be something to put us on the map for tourism, and the King Alfred gives us the full house on the seafront."

But Conservative and Green councillors attacked the decision, claiming it was a missed opportunity and overdevelopment.

Tory councillor Linda Hyde, who voted against the proposal, said: "It looks more like a nuclear power station - it even makes Dungeness look quite tasteful."

Councillor Brian Oxley, leader of the Conservative party, said: "It is a slap in the face of the residents.

"The development is completely out-of-keeping with the area and we will be pushing the Government Office for the South East to call in the decision."

Coun Paskins said: "There will be massive overshadowing for those on Kingsway and in the lower blocks in the King Alfred.

"It is supposed to be affordable housing but it is despicable."

Valerie Paynter, of anti-King Alfred group Save Hove, said that she will be considering a judicial review.

She said: "It is very sad that this was not determined on merit.

"First we will wait for the Government Office for the South East and if they rubber stamp it a judicial review is our only option."

The more I look at this project, the more I like it, and the more amazing it looks. The crumpled towers look so striking next to those elegant lower blocks with their smooth curves. And what other building has a roof like that sports centre. Its muliti-coloured pitch frenzie will look great from the towers and it will light them up in a colourful glow as the sun catches it.

I'm usually a very restrained person, but here we go: ::banana:

Finally, YEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA

I wasn't too worried about not having this scheme, but it is very good news for the future - in that this decision means that other developers will see Brighton as a good potential city for investment. Any idea what the time-frame will be on this one?
Pmun, what is the Allied and Morrison scheme? Is it different from the Beetham?

I wasn't too worried about not having this scheme, but it is very good news for the future - in that this decision means that other developers will see Brighton as a good potential city for investment. Any idea what the time-frame will be on this one?
Pmun, what is the Allied and Morrison scheme? Is it different from the Beetham?

No elfabyanos, it is the same. Allies & Morrison are working for Beetham on it.

No elfabyanos, it is the same. Allies & Morrison are working for Beetham on it.

Aah thanks.

A few pics I took of the current King Alfred centre before it faces the wrecking ball (hopefully!)

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/159/436772487_5cab267e1e_b.jpg

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/151/436744292_548a9af87f_b.jpg

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/156/436791962_888bc069f0_b.jpg

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/152/436744340_44e85f0216_b.jpg

Finally for those that object due to the plans being out of keeping with the surrounding "Regency" architecture, this is the building that's directly opposite the site!

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/164/436791876_c33f694783_b.jpg

Cheers for those Mark, the pics show how redevelopment is urgently needed for this area, I live very close to the site and there are some beautiful buildings in the surrounding area, the king alfred is just one big ugly blot on the landscape, a total embarrasment to our fine city.

According to the Brighton business website the chances of the Government calling in the Gehry project are slim, if that's so then there may only be one more hurdle in the form of a judicial review (if the objectors consider it a worthwhile option).

Can you boys actually find anyone among those who don't want the Karis King Alfred who thinks the site and the sports centre should simply left as it is?

Can you boys actually find anyone among those who don't want the Karis King Alfred who thinks the site and the sports centre should simply left as it is?

While I do want the Karis project to proceed, I grew up with the King Alfred as my local pool and do like much about the original 40s building. IMO the building was ruined when stucco was applied to the exterior walls sometime about when the new pool was added to the rear. No doubt the architects thought they were rejuvenating an old building, but somehow the understated stripped moderne styling of the building was made to look very cheap and tawdrey and the building has been an eyesore ever since. However, when you look at the main entrance area, the fenestration and doors are carefully laid out.

Anyhow, now we will have a really stunning building in its place so I'm sad the old building will go, but I eagerly look forward to its replacement.

The apartment building across the road used to have a gas station in front. It would be nice if this were turned into a garden rather than being a car rental place.

While I do want the Karis project to proceed, I grew up with the King Alfred as my local pool and do like much about the original 40s building. IMO the building was ruined when stucco was applied to the exterior walls sometime about when the new pool was added to the rear. No doubt the architects thought they were rejuvenating an old building, but somehow the understated stripped moderne styling of the building was made to look very cheap and tawdrey and the building has been an eyesore ever since. However, when you look at the main entrance area, the fenestration and doors are carefully laid out.

Anyhow, now we will have a really stunning building in its place so I'm sad the old building will go, but I eagerly look forward to its replacement.

The apartment building across the road used to have a gas station in front. It would be nice if this were turned into a garden rather than being a car rental place.

I don't think many people would argue that the current building has been buggered by serious mistreatment and bad decision-making over the years. I just don't understand why the subject is so often framed as a question of leaving it to continue rotting on the front OR embracing the Gehry/Gough designs. There is (or at least would have been) any number of alternatives.

I don't think many people would argue that the current building has been buggered by serious mistreatment and bad decision-making over the years. I just don't understand why the subject is so often framed as a question of leaving it to continue rotting on the front OR embracing the Gehry/Gough designs. There is (or at least would have been) any number of alternatives.

The problem is that many of the people rejecting the Gehry scheme don't come up a viable alternative as if they are content with the status quo. Nick Lomax (Jubilee Library) is an exception but is four years too late. The competition took place with schemes from Richard Rogers (which I rather liked) and Wilkinson Eyre. So options have been presented and after considerable public consultation, we have this. Whatever your opinion, few could deny that it will be a landmark that will attract considerable attention from around the world.

The problem is that many of the people rejecting the Gehry scheme don't come up a viable alternative as if they are content with the status quo. Nick Lomax (Jubilee Library) is an exception but is four years too late. The competition took place with schemes from Richard Rogers (which I rather liked) and Wilkinson Eyre. So options have been presented and after considerable public consultation, we have this. Whatever your opinion, few could deny that it will be a landmark that will attract considerable attention from around the world.

I think hardly anyone is content with the status quo - I'm sure there are people (for what it's worth, I'm not among them) who feel that the current KA building could be modernised without much further development of the site, but even they wouldn't argue that things should just be left as they are. I don't understand why Nick Lomax's proposals are "four years too late" - and I also have to say that, as the architect of a genuine Brighton success story in the Jubilee Library, I'm amazed that people on here are so quick to completely ignore his objections to the Karis plans - or do they simply make it too inconvenient to continue to argue that only "NIMBYs" don't want this development as is?

The issue of whether and how public consultation was carried out is one I think life is probably too short for, but, as you say, there were two other potentially very high quality options on the table in 2002 (personally, I liked the Wilkinson Eyre designs). Obviously there's no way of proving it, but had either one of those options been allowed to go ahead, I'd personally bet they would have broken ground and be on the way to being built now - and with much less of the rancour and ill-feeling this development has caused across the city.

I think hardly anyone is content with the status quo - I'm sure there are people (for what it's worth, I'm not among them) who feel that the current KA building could be modernised without much further development of the site, but even they wouldn't argue that things should just be left as they are. I don't understand why Nick Lomax's proposals are "four years too late" - and I also have to say that, as the architect of a genuine Brighton success story in the Jubilee Library, I'm amazed that people on here are so quick to completely ignore his objections to the Karis plans - or do they simply make it too inconvenient to continue to argue that only "NIMBYs" don't want this development as is?

The issue of whether and how public consultation was carried out is one I think life is probably too short for, but, as you say, there were two other potentially very high quality options on the table in 2002 (personally, I liked the Wilkinson Eyre designs). Obviously there's no way of proving it, but had either one of those options been allowed to go ahead, I'd personally bet they would have broken ground and be on the way to being built now - and with much less of the rancour and ill-feeling this development has caused across the city.

I don't think people are content with the status quo. But they behave as if they are by not doing anything to change it. They just try and stop things happening.

Nick Lomax missed the original competition four years ago and is only now suggesting that he could come up with an alternative.

I personally felt that the Richard Rogers scheme was more viable. I was intrigued by Gehry, but it did seem very ambitious.

I don't think people are content with the status quo. But they behave as if they are by not doing anything to change it. They just try and stop things happening.

Nick Lomax missed the original competition four years ago and is only now suggesting that he could come up with an alternative.

I personally felt that the Richard Rogers scheme was more viable. I was intrigued by Gehry, but it did seem very ambitious.

I agree that there's a section of people in B and H who will object to pretty much anything - but I think it's a very small number in relation to the very large amount of people who specifically don't want this development. Look at how many objections the i360 has had, for example - hardly any, as far as I'm aware.

I also wouldn't argue that Nick Lomax should have put his head above the parapet a long time ago on this, but I still think he should have been given a chance to produce a rival design, given the acclaim the library has brought to the city - as you say, we've all been waiting four years for Karis to be able to even get as far as the planning committee, so I hardly think another couple of months would have mattered. But it had to be put through now, didn't it, because Labour are about to lose control of the council.

I just think whatever happens to the site it's a shame that people in Brighton have been set against each other like this - and they didn't have to be.

Unfortunately there are enough NIMBY type people in Brighton and Hove to kill many projects which are architecturally provocative for various reasons. Just look at the convulsions the West Pier went through in the 1990s because some people objected to landward end developments. As a result the pier is gone - one of Brighton's architectural treasures. The Falmer stadium is another project being blighted by endless protests from a small minority, though this time mostly due to Lewes politicians. The marina high rise projects have had to go to appeal, as have other projects. As a result, Brighton and Hove is a very difficult city to get large new projects built. The need for new housing in the city is desperate, and likely it will need to be high density and medium/high rise.

The city, like most of SE England, really needs to reconsider its attitude towards density and facilitating the needs of people who need more living space rather than just pandering to those who have what they want and don't want change. If these NIMBYs had been around in the early 19thC, we may never have had many of the city's most famous buildings or developments, including the Royal Pavilion.

Good news (if you're a fan of the i360), the Government has given the project the all clear and work will start in June. :cheers:

Brighton tower gets all clear
By Louise Acford

Work will begin on Brighton and Hove's flagship i360 tower in June after the Government gave the development final approval.

Groundwork for the 183-metre structure was set for months of delays after business rivals objected to the scheme.

But today the West Pier Trust, the team behind the i360, got the news they had been waiting 12 months to hear when the Department for Transport (DfT) gave its approval for the project.

A Victorian law covering the proposed site had stopped the land, at the base of the West Pier, being leased out for more than three years at a time.

The trust asked the DfT to alter the legislation to allow the i360 to be built on the seafront.

The Noble Organisation, which owns Brighton's Palace Pier, objected to the plans on the grounds the tower would increase competition along the seafront and have a negative affect on their profits.

But the DfT today backed the trust and gave permission for the i360 to be started.

Rachel Clark, general manager of the West Pier Trust, said: "It can only be that Noble were fearful of competition.

"A conservative estimate is that 500,000 visitors will come to the i360 every year. A significant proportion will go on the Palace Pier.

"It will benefit the whole of Brighton. There will be no loss.

"We were always confident the outcome would go our way. It's very good news."

Work to dismantle the shore-side part of the now-derelict West Pier will begin in June.

The i360 was designed by David Marks and Julia Barfield, the architects responsible for the London Eye.

It is estimated the tower will give a £10 million boost to the city's economy and create more than 100 jobs.

It will be double the height of Sussex Heights, which is currently the highest building in the city.

Visitors will be taken to the top of the tower in a giant pod. Views at the top will stretch for up to 25 miles.

Brighton and Hove City Council leader Simon Burgess said: "This has been the one thing holding this development up and making us nervous.

"It will be so nice to see one of these dramatic developments to really get going."

Coun Burgess said there had been concerns the architects would lose patience with the wait for approval and take the proposal elsewhere.

He said: "They could have taken it anywhere. The risk was them contemplating building somewhere else.

"This is fantastic news."

No-one at the Noble Organisation was available for comment when The Argus contacted them tonight.

Thats' great news Brighton Boy. I'm already imagining being able to look out from the I360 and see the stunning Marina tower in one direction and the Gehry towers in the other.:)

I take it all of you who hate "NIMBYs" and those who stand in the way of progress have taken the time to write letters of complaint to the Noble Organisation, who were the only people in Brighton to try and block the i360?

Or is it just slagging off old ladies on the internet for you?

Fitz I made my views clear on the Noble organisation in post 262. When friends and family have come to visit Brighton they think I am mad for refusing to take them on the pier.

I'm sure Noble's current stance of attempting to block the i360 is not based on the short term as I believe they recognise that an attraction like the i360 will bring extra revenue in increased visitor numbers to the city which in turn will be to the benefit of the "Palace" Pier. My view is that they are looking at the long term where profits from the I360 could (although unlikely) be used to rebuild/replace the West Pier which they seem utterly opposed to.

Excellent news, the West pier could rise again! :banana:

New West Pier could be up in four years
By Louise Acford

A new pier could rise out of the ashes of the derelict West Pier within four years.

The West Pier Trust have revealed they are in negotiations with a company who want to build a new attraction where the remains of Brighton's famous structure stand.

The plans will feature a modern design and include a rebuild of the famous concert hall which was the centre piece of the original construction.

But the trust was last night keeping its cards close to its chest over the exact details of its proposals or who the mystery developer is.

Geoff Lockwood, chief executive of the West Pier Trust, said: "We have been fighting for this for 12 years. We are excited but cautious. We have been let down before."

The trust has agreed not to name the company it is in discussions with until work on the i360 tower begins on the seafront this summer.

The tower, which was given final approval by the Government last week, will stand at the base of the West Pier site. It is expected to be finished in 2009.

Dr Lockwood said the trust had ruled out plans for a casino, or any type of gaming, on the new pier. Developers want to build an exclusive hotel and restaurants on the pier, which could be completed by 2011.

He said: "The deal will be totally private sector and will be confined to the West Pier Trust land.

"Other schemes we have looked at have used adjoining council land.

"It will be a mixture of heritage and new.

"We will keep elements of the original pier including the concert hall which will be rebuilt in a modern setting.

"In terms of timing once they start work in June a deal will be in place for a sea-based pier by the end of the year.

"The company we are talking to is British and has experience of sea-based leisure developments in the south of England."

Rachel Clark, general manager of the trust, said: "It would be an interesting attraction which in design terms would reflect the West Pier's former glory.

"Elements of the West Pier which have been retained and stored would be incorporated in the new design."

Simon Burgess, the leader of Brighton and Hove City Council, said: "It sounds very exciting and interesting.

"I have little doubt the i360 makes a huge difference. There will be a lot of serious investors out there wanting to get involved."

The pier has been empty since 1975.

For years the trust battled for the restoration of the Grade I listed site but the constraints of the listing made it difficult to attract private developers to the site.

English Heritage and the Heritage Lottery Fund had agreed to fund a restoration project but a fire in 2003 left the pier severely damaged.

A bad storm the following year destroyed the remaining buildings, including the concert hall. Funding was pulled and plans for the restoration were finally scuppered.

Police believe the fire was started deliberately but the arsonist has never been caught.

Glad to see that it's going to be a modern design that will incorporate elements of the old west pier, it should look stunning.

Hi guys - I've been away for a bit but I come back and look at all the good news! I live just near the i360 site and I just can't wait to go on it (my girlfriend jokes that I'm never going to come down again!).
Fitz I agree with Markbton that Noble were totally beside the mark - everyone can see that it would ultimately be good for business on their pier as Rachel Clark said "A conservative estimate is that 500,000 visitors will come to the i360 every year. A significant proportion will go on the Palace Pier." The only people who couldn't see this are Noble so it's no wonder that no-one listened to them. From their little tantrum I believe the biggest threat to their success is their own management.

Anyway - Hooray for Brighton.

I think n**** realise how substandard their facilities are and this will definately up the competition. All in all its a great thing for Brighton and the west pier...which english heritage incidentally wanted to be demolished but looks like it will now be rebuilt.....I hope.

From the Argus this evening, more details on the proposed rapid transport system.

Transport project will 'cut journey times'
By Lawrence Marzouk

A £12million transport project will cut journey times across Brighton and Hove by up to a third.

Last month, The Argus revealed that work on the Rapid Transport System could start as early as next April - two years ahead of schedule.

Now a provisional timetable, released to the public for the first time, shows the new "tube-like" buses will take just 16 minutes to travel between Brighton Marina and Brighton Station at peak times. The number 7 bus currently does the journey in 23 minutes.

Trips between the King Alfred and Brighton Station will be completed in 11 minutes at rush hour and nine minutes at other times of day.

No direct bus route exists at the moment between the leisure centre and the city's busiest station but the new system will cut travel time by at least three minutes.

The service will run every ten minutes.

The first phase of the project was moved up the list of regional transport priorities after other schemes in the South East fell behind schedule.

Councillor Gill Mitchell, head of transport at the city council, said the system would be more like the London Underground than the current bus system.

She said: "It will cut time for people commuting into the city for jobs, stopping at major employers like American Express.

"It will also be easier for visitors arriving at Brighton Station to see a much simplified bus station going to all the major tourist sites.

"This service will make it easier and more comfortable to travel across the city."

Buses will run between Brighton railway station, which will be the central stop, American Express, the Royal Sussex County Hospital and the marina.

Heading west, stops will be built at the Brighton Centre, the i360 and the King Alfred.

The council is already investigating other routes, including one via Hove Station, and a bid for a £40million extension to Shoreham and Newhaven has been pencilled in for 2015.

The buses will run on miles of dedicated lanes and will have a limited number of stops and station-like platforms.

Bendy buses were initially planned for the project but have been dropped after failures in London.

The vehicles will be environmentally friendly and will include cycle racks.

The scheme will reduce the number of cars on the road at peak times by 1,600 and increase public transport use.

Talks with the Department for Transport are ongoing to secure funding.

Plans to redevelop the Hove cricket ground have been given the go ahead despite a recommendation for refusal by planning officers, this from the argus:

Hove sweet home
By Frankie Taggart

Sussex have been granted planning permission to redevelop their ground at Hove, ending fears they may have to leave their home of 167 years.

The county champions had been concerned their plans to build would be blocked and consequently restrict their ability to generate revenue and compete with the larger counties.

The council's planning committee today voted in favour of the application, subject to certain conditions being met, despite a previous recommendation that they be turned down.

Sussex chief executive Gus Mackay said: "This is wonderful news for the club. We have been an integral part of this community for 167 years and we really did not relish the idea of having to move due to development restrictions.

"The council's decision has ensured that the most successful cricket club of recent times can now remain in its true home and I am sure that this will be greeted with delight by all our members and supporters.

"This will allow the club to move forward in a positive manner enabling us to focus on maximising the County Ground's potential - we can't wait to get started!"

Sussex see regeneration as essential to stem their financial losses.

They have recorded a loss for the past six years and last week posted a deficit of £389,466 for 2006, a year in which the club won both County Championship and the ECB Trophy.


http://www.sussexcricket.co.uk/assets/file_uploads/images/aerial-view-from-northwest.jpg

http://www.sussexcricket.co.uk/assets/file_uploads/images/piazza-westernentrance.jpg

http://www.sussexcricket.co.uk/assets/file_uploads/images/view-membersend.jpg

http://www.sussexcricket.co.uk/assets/file_uploads/images/front-of-stand.jpg

The Beetham tower decision has been delayed by a month, what do we all think the final decision will be?

On the one hand the south east, and especially Brighton needs more housing and the only way is up if we are going to meet the demand for new housing in the city, it is also in a perfect location to build tall, it will be a real landmark building on one of the main gateways into the city centre for people travelling down from the north.

On the down side it isn't the most amazing of designs and is a little on the bland side especially seeing as it will be in such a prime position, we really needed something truly spectacular.

I'm really not sure which way this is going to go, I'm a little 50/50 on whether I want it to get the go ahead in it's current form.

From the Argus -

Skyscraper decision delayed
By Ben Parsons
A final decision on whether a 400ft skyscraper will be built next to Brighton Station has been delayed until next month.

A three-week inquiry into plans to build a 42-storey tower in New England Street, Brighton, was held in November last year.

The skyscraper would contain 146 flats and a public rooftop garden.

advertisementThe site would also include a four-star hotel and a pedestrianised square with an outdoor public lift.

The inquiry was prompted when developer the Beetham Organisation appealed against Brighton and Hove City Council's decision to reject the plan in April 2005.

Each side produced expert witnesses to testify to the effect of the tower on homes and businesses, on the city skyline and on wind patterns in the area.

A decision was expected on Thursday April 19, but the deadline was extended after the Beetham Organisation was allowed to submit further evidence to planning inspector Kenneth Barton.

Ruth Kelly, Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government, is now expected to publish a final decision on or before May 17.

http://www.newenglandsquare.co.uk/e107_images/content/overvi05_large.jpg

http://www.skyscrapernews.com/images/pics/513BrightonBeethamSetForAppeal_pic1.jpg

Personally speaking Brighton Boy this is my least favourite project in the city. The building reminds me of the many sixties office blocks that can be seen throughout most of the UK's towns and cities and lacks the wow factor that a building in this location deserves. I agree however that the site is perfect for a large landmark tower, just not this one!

In my opinion this design is at best 'filler' and will start dating even during construction. It's an ugly shape to begin with, the cladding is so early noughties, and the yellow fins are a distressingly Lauwrence Llewellyn-Bowen-y cheap changing-room-y appalling way of tarting the design up a ! They make me think of other goemetric tarting up disasters such as the awful red and green pavements that used to be around the west pier.

It will be a landmark purely and simply due to it's size. I'm happy for it to be approved, though not very bothered. If it fails it won't signal negativity to developers as we've had everything else approved recently - other potential developers will just think the reason it failed was because it was a bit rubbish and all they need to do is do better, like the Marina Tower.

Some news on the new arena -

Arena to include green roof
The largest eco-friendly roof in Europe is set to be built in Brighton.

Plans for the Brighton International Arena, which is earmarked for the Black Rock site, include a green roof which looks more like a golf course when viewed from above.

The living roof is a curved structure covered with a layer of sedum, a succulent plant, and other organic material.


The plants have been specially chosen to survive the strong coastal winds.

Councillor Simon Burgess, leader of Brighton and Hove City Council, said: "Top quality design and high levels of sustainability are essentials for our city.

"The Brighton International Arena design respects that well and will transform a derelict area into a first class facility for local people and the essential tourist trade."

The Brighton International Arena will be centred around two Olympic-sized ice rinks, making Brighton a national centre of excellence for ice skating in the UK.

The main arena will also be able to be converted into an 11,000 capacity venue for sports events, concerts and live shows.

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/128/385377622_34a46a39c7_o.jpg

Seems u lot in Brighton have some good sh*t happening at the mo..
That 360 tower looks like a beauty, and if a few of the other projects come off you'll have some serious construction happening.

Beats anything we've got planned in Bristol at the moment. We have plenty of construction/projects, it's just that they're all rather dull and 6/7 storeys max. I'll look forward to watching that 360 go up!

Cheers Schmeek, there are indeed some great projects happening at the moment, my favourite has to be the roaring forties tower at the marina which has just started construction so expect to see some pics of this beauty rising some time soon! :)

http://www.brightonmarinafuture.co.uk/images/future1.jpg

I have had a browse at some of the Bristol projects and I'm glad to see that broadmead is currently undergoing a major transformation, it really did let Bristol down so it's good to see lots of quality construction in that area and will greatly improve Bristol's retail scene.

Right I think it's time for a run down of all our main projects that are currently under construction, awaiting approval or proposed.

Lets start with the Roaring forties Marina tower (under construction) -

http://www.brightonmarinafuture.co.uk/images/future1.jpg

http://www.skyscrapernews.com/images/pics/347BrightonMarinaTower_pic2.jpg


The explore living Brighton marina scheme (totally seperate from the Roaring forties scheme) new buildings proposed are highlighted in red (no detailed designs available yet, the project is still in the early stages) -

http://www.skyscrapernews.com/images/pics/801ExploreLivingBrightonMarinaPlansShownOff_pic1.jpg


The King Alfred scheme, designed by world famous architect Frank Gehry (approved) -

http://www.thekingalfred.org/_images/_models/2006-1.jpg


Grow Brighton, this development is set for the site of the old municipal market in the city centre (awaiting planning application) -

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/49/139656780_3e4af50dcd_o.jpg


Brighton international arena, an 11,000 capacity venue for concerts and shows, also two olympic sized ice rinks one which will be for public use (planning application expected in the next couple of months).

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/128/385377622_34a46a39c7.jpg?v=0

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/126/385377600_79c6113f15.jpg?v=0

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/151/385377564_0b10216976.jpg?v=0


The new england quarter (mostly under construction apart from the Beetham proposal which is awaiting a decision with it's appeal)

New Apartments
http://farm1.static.flickr.com/123/411679097_660cb3a8b4.jpg?v=0

New Europoean language school headquarters
http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/1/17/NEQ_016_03-02-2007.jpg/800px-NEQ_016_03-

One planet living (eco friendly apartments)
http://farm1.static.flickr.com/53/161136865_115f9f3db1.jpg?v=0

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/66/161136863_8906162dac.jpg?v=0

Jurys inn Hotel

http://brightonhotels.jurysinns.com/images/maps/25.gif

And of course the controversial Beetham tower plans

http://www.newenglandsquare.co.uk/e107_images/content/overvi06_large.jpg

http://www.newenglandsquare.co.uk/e107_images/content/overvi05_large.jpg


Moving on, the I360 tower (under construction) -

http://www.westpier.co.uk/I360/images/image3_bg.jpg

http://www.westpier.co.uk/I360/images/tower.jpg


Brighton centre development plans are still being drawn up but we know that the current Brighton centre building along with the kingswest building next to it will be demolished and will make way for a new conference centre along with a 4 or 5 star hotel, an extension to the Churchill square shopping centre and probably a major new department store, new apartments and further retail/leisure.

This will be one, if not the biggest and most important development site in Brighton and will almost certainly include a tall tower as part of the plans, so watch this space.

Say goodbye to these two monstrousities -

http://www.visitbrighton.co.uk/images/cm_images/brighton_centre.jpg

http://www.citikey.com/images/business/10286596.jpg


Brighton & Hove albion's new 23,000 capacity stadium at Falmer (awaiting final approval from Ruth Kelly) -

http://stadiony.net/projects/falmer_stadium/falmer_stadium01.jpg

http://stadiony.net/projects/falmer_stadium/falmer_stadium02.jpg


The sirus tower in Hove, next to King Alfred development (awaiting planning application) -

http://www.skyscrapernews.com/images/pics/5010SirusTower_pic1.jpg


Preston barracks (awaiting planning apps) -

http://www.hyde-housing.co.uk/graphics/Preston1.jpg

http://www.brighton-hove.gov.uk/imageLibrary/preston-barracks-day-north-.jpg


Jubilee street and square (almost complete) -

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/119/256482268_e6aba4deff.jpg?v=0

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/44/141092969_f5eaa762ce.jpg?v=0

http://www.rhwl.com/images/myhotel.brighton/myhotel.1.jpg


Brighton Hippodrome has been bought by the academy group who will return this beautiful building back into a live music venue -

http://www.womenofbrighton.co.uk/hippodrome.jpg

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/173/374560418_603fb7428c.jpg?v=0

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/144/374560425_f5ad693fe5.jpg?v=0


There's a few other things I've missed out but they are the main projects.

Another major project announced today, a huge city centre park stretching from st peters/the level down to the royal pavilion is planned and I think is a fantastic idea, this space is currently seriously under used and would transform this part of the city centre.

From the Argus -

New super-park to replace clogged road
By Lawrence Marzouk

A series of traffic-choked roundabouts are set to be transformed into Brighton's biggest city centre park, The Argus can reveal.

The green space would stretch for almost a mile between St Peter's Church and The Royal Pavilion, linking the gardens to North Laine.

The radical plans will cost at least £2.5 million to complete and a team of officers has been handed tens of thousands of pounds to draw up the proposals.

All traffic would be sent along the east side of the main thoroughfare which runs from St Peter's Church towards the Palace Pier.

The west lanes of traffic would be covered with grass, flowers and trees.

Events like Brighton Festival would then be able to expand and an outdoor ice-rink could be in place for the winter.

The scheme has yet to be be formally presented to councillors but if approved work could start as early as 2010.

Because of the complicated system of cycle and bus routes along the A23, barriers have been put up along the way reinforcing the isolation of the gardens from the rest of the city and leading to a number of serious accidents.

Officers' early analysis using a traffic model suggests the new layout, far from worsening congestion, could actually improve the flow.

Labour councillor Gill Mitchell, the chairwoman of the environment committee, said Brighton and Hove lacked a park worthy of its city status.

She said: "It would be absolutely wonderful and it will give us the kind of open space that other cities have.

"We have an idea that we have put through the traffic model but it is at an early stage and hasn't been formally presented to councillors.

"At the moment it is dominated by traffic and underused.

"It would be great if this area could become vehicle-free but it will not be without difficulties."

Conservative councillor Ted Kemble, the party's Brighton spokesman for transport and a taxi driver, said his party was keen on the scheme but that questions remained unanswered about changes to the road layout.

He said: "I would support anything that would improve traffic flows and air quality.

"My main concern is that North Road is a major cross street and would be blocked off but if they can find a suitable way of overcoming this problem, I do not see that there is an issue."

Green convener Keith Taylor said a large park would help St Peter's Church which is threatened with closure.

He said: "What we need to be doing is reducing the level of traffic in the city because reducing the number of lanes will cause longer delays.

"But we do need to make the most of our inner city green spaces and that space is massively underused because it is surround by choking traffic."

He added that 19 per cent of all CO2 emissions is traffic related.

Liberal Democrat councillor Paul Elgood said a strategy to improve green spaces across the whole city was needed.

He said: "We support anything that improves the area and helps the environment but this is artificial and cosmetic environmentalism.

"What we need is a strategic plan for the whole city."

Ibis hotel have resubmitted plans for an 11 storey hotel on Queens road/Frederick place, replacing the former Grosvenor casino building -

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/132/413881121_4958a6461d.jpg?v=0

I'll try and upload some renders as soon as they are made available.:)

Excellent post Brighton Boy, it sure does show how much is going on. Excellent news about the new centre park, I cross that on my way to work everyday - it is the most underused open space in the centre.

I didn't know the Roaring Forties was actually under construction!!! I went to the Marina the other day and saw little evidence, but I could only see from the restauraunts next to pizza express so it's not surprising. I love this tower!

I didn't know the Roaring Forties was actually under construction!!! I went to the Marina the other day and saw little evidence, but I could only see from the restauraunts next to pizza express so it's not surprising. I love this tower!

The tower itself hasn't started yet, but the project is well and truly underway, work has started to sink the 50 metre deep boreholes for the foundation piles of the platform, which will support the tower and other buildings and enable them to be built over the spending beach.:)

The BIA looks the dogs bollocks!!

Thanks Brighton Boy, another excellent update.

My favourite of the unapproved projects is the Sirius Tower. Is there a timescale that you're aware of for plans for this one to be submitted?

Thanks Brighton Boy, another excellent update.

My favourite of the unapproved projects is the Sirius Tower. Is there a timescale that you're aware of for plans for this one to be submitted?

I suspect that the developers for this one will be waiting on the outcome of the king alfred scheme, a judicial review is probably still on the cards, once this final hurdle is cleared I would imagine a planning application for the sirus tower would be submitted.

Here are some images (from council planning docs) of the proposed Ibis hotel on queens road, as you can see it isn't anything particularly special (although the double height glass frontage looks nice), but I don't think we could of really expected that for a budget hotel, the building looks good enough and will improve the streetscape along queens road by filling in a big gap where the old casino building currently stands.

Queens road frontage -

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/191/461868824_6962c071ec_o.jpg

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/240/461875787_ff7ab478db_o.jpg

Frederick place frontage -

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/198/461868984_8d1d4b267a_o.jpg

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/197/461869472_ba9483c8eb_o.jpg

Also as these are poor quality black and white images we don't have any idea of the colour scheme and the quality of the cladding.

Thanks Brighton Boy for your updates etc. The road changes north of the Steine sound very interesting.

Unfortunately, the new hotel on Queen's Road appears architecturally to be yet another disappointing work of architecture along this street. It seems no-one today can recapture the Regency architecture of Brighton along this street, nor is there a quality alternative. The upper floors look more interesting, but the street wall of the lower level completely fails to respond to the architecture of Brighton. It is good though to have budget priced hotels in town.

I think you're right Black Cat, maybe it was because of the very fact that queens road (on the east side) is rather bland and ugly which made me think it was good enough for the street.

I think the only building which has any kind of architectural merit on this side of the road is international house by the station.

The tower itself hasn't started yet, but the project is well and truly underway, work has started to sink the 50 metre deep boreholes for the foundation piles of the platform, which will support the tower and other buildings and enable them to be built over the spending beach.:)

:banana:

From channel 4 news -


Brighton rocks in property price league

Brighton ranks top of the list in terms of UK Property price growth, new research has revealed.

According to the survey by Halifax, Brighton is leading the way for other cities, with the highest property prices per square metre in the UK, rising a massive 280 per cent since 1996.

Brighton was closely followed in property price growth by Truro in Cornwall, where prices have risen 270 per cent over the same period, with London coming in third at 254 per cent.

Martin Ellis, Halifax chief economist said: "Over the past ten years Brighton has seen the fastest increase in price per square metre, with a gain of 280 per cent. Properties in the city now cost £2,559 per square metre, compared with £673 ten years ago.

"London is the most expensive city in the UK, with an average price of £3,883 per square metre, although ten years ago the capital was ranked second behind St Albans."

I thought i'd post some photos i took a few weeks ago..

This is the site of the Roaring Forties tower.. though the tower will rise more to the left of the photo.. i didn't realise that the entire project will be on stilts.. i read a few months ago that this project had started but as mentioned earlier it just seems to be preliminary works at the momment.. i imagine the tower being on stilts adds some complexity to the project.

http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w21/hcrosskey/P4020083.jpg

The new ice ring/confrence venue site.. no sign of any impending construction on this site but i think i read someplace that full planning hasn't even been submitted yet?

http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w21/hcrosskey/P4020079.jpg

North Street seems to have changed to a one way system now with the busses coming into the shopping area via the seafront..

http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w21/hcrosskey/P4020059.jpg

The King Alfred Towers will be a welcome addition to this view in a dew years time..

http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w21/hcrosskey/P4020060.jpg

Agreed Sirius Tower is stunning fingers crossed this gets the go ahead.

Cheers for the pics hcrosskey :)

The buses are currently diverted westbound as Southern Water and Southern Gas are laying new water and gas mains along the length of North Street, the work will last until around December this year, so buses from east/north Brighton go from the Old Steine along the seafront and up West street.

Totally unrelated I know but I've just found out that Brighton is to get a swanky new official Apple store at Churchill square. :banana:

I think this is a clear indication that many retailers see our city as one of the country's leading retail destinations with a pretty large catchment area, we just need to develop more retail space (which is planned with the Brighton centre development) so we can allow other big names to open here.

Some further news on the Brighton centre plans, the plans seem very promising indeed :)

From the Argus -

Glass Palace to replace Brighton Centre
By Lawrence Marzouk

A glass palace designed by the architect behind London's famous Gherkin building will replace the Brighton Centre, The Argus can exclusively reveal today.

Make Architects has been handed the £250 million job of transforming the ageing conference centre, Churchill Square and the Kingswest building.

The building would be a landmark in the city, opening up views from Churchill Square to the seafront.

An official announcement is not expected for months but The Argus has learned that the London architects, fronted by Ken Shuttleworth, has already produced plans for the city's most lucrative asset.

During his time as a senior architect at Lord Norman Foster's firm, Mr Shuttleworth played a key role in designing landmark London buildings including City Hall, near Tower Bridge, 30 St Mary Axe, dubbed The Gherkin, and the arches of the new Wembley Stadium.

He has been described by Sir Stuart Lipton, chairman of the Government's Commission for Architecture and the Built Environment, as one of the UK's best hidden talents.

Make was founded in 2004 and has already been involved in a string of international projects, creating awe-inspiring designs like the 250-metre Stellar Tower in Abu Dhabi.

The Brighton Centre redevelopment will feature a high-tech, luxurious complex including a hotel, conference centre and a department store.

Covering 25,000 square metres, the centre will aim to attract the biggest names in business and high-spending organisations, catering for conferences of up to 1,500 delegates. A four or five-star hotel with more than 300 rooms is planned, as well as an extension to the Churchill Square shopping centre.

It is the Brighton Centre's 30th birthday this year and in recent years it has lost ground to bigger and more modern venues across the country, leading to a downturn in business for hotels, especially in midweek.

For the past decade, the council has pursued a number of failed projects but it now hopes to have the new centre open by 2012.

Council leader Councillor Simon Burgess said: "I cannot comment on whether Standard Life, the landowner, has made an appointment.

"But we are confident that a world class architect will want to design the new Brighton Centre.

"And because we are looking to bring together the Brighton Centre, the Kingswest Building and Churchill Square, there is real scope for creating a landmark building."

Labour, Conservatives, Greens and the Lib Dems have all pledged to redevelop the Brighton Centre as a priority.

A council spokesperson said: "Redeveloping the Brighton Centre is one of our top priorities, and an awful lot of work is going on behind the scenes with a wide range of developers and other interested parties.

"We are not in a position to confirm or announce anything at this stage regarding our proposals for the redevelopment, but hope to do so in the near future.

Make Architects and Standard Life declined to comment..

:banana:

Glad to hear that all the political parties are agreed on this development as being a priority.

Thats sounds very exciting - especially as there seems to be an aspiration for something brilliant.
Amazing that the city is now number one for prices in the country. I can see why though - it is already very dense and brimming with people, but there are no big housing projects outside the city due to the South Downs. Everything is stuck in the city - ripe conditions for a high-rise boom!

Fingers crossed for the 9th of July, it is quite frankly embarrassing that a city of our size doesn't have a proper football stadium.

Falmer date confirmed
By Andy Tate

The long-awaited decision on Brighton and Hove Albion's Falmer Stadium dreams will be announced by July 9, the Government confirmed yesterdayAPR26.

The news came in a Parliamentary written answer to Brighton Pavilion MP David Lepper on the tenth anniversary of Albion's final match at the former Goldstone Ground.

Mr Lepper had called on ministers to name the date they planned to make their announcement.

He had also demanded details of the warnings they had received about the impact on the club of further delays to the decision.

Junior Minister Meg Munn replied: "Following the quashing of the original decision on this case in the High Court, representations were sought on a range of issues from interested parties.

"A number of those representations address the impact on the football club of the lack of a final decision."

Ms Munn, who refused to divulge the details of the warnings the Government had received, added that there were "no plans" to change the July 9 deadline.

Yesterday morning campaigners from Falmer for All joined Brighton and Hove's three Labour MPs, Mr Lepper, Des Turner and Celia Barlow, to deliver 5,000 postcards to the Department for Communities and Local Government's headquarters at Eland House in Bressenden Place, London.

It takes the total number of protest cards sent to the Government to more than 30,000.

One of those who travelled to London, Paul Samrah from Falmer for All, told The Argus: "Ten years on from when we left the Goldstone Ground we are optimistic.

"We have a had a 'yes' decision before and there is no reason why it should not be reaffirmed.

"We have done everything we possible can."

TodayAPR27 is the final day for official submissions about the club's stadium proposals.

Meanwhile, students from the University of Sussex backing the opposition movement received a blow to their campaign when just 13 people turned out for a debate about the planned stadium.

The meeting took place on Wednesday night (April 25) at an almost empty Common Room at the university.

The decision has been delayed on whether the New England Tower will be built. Ruth Kelly will now make a final decision by May 17th at the latest.

Fingers crossed.

http://i71.photobucket.com/albums/i128/keithdaniel/buildings/348NewEnglandSquare_pic1.jpg
http://i71.photobucket.com/albums/i128/keithdaniel/buildings/348NewEnglandSquare_pic2.jpg

If its down to Ruth Kelly & her dislike of highrises I don't fancy your chances- You had better hope theres a cabinant reshuffle after the local elections.

Shoreham & Adur council approved this development below in principal at Shoreham harbour a couple of days ago. It's set to replace the old B&Q warehouse on the harbour front and should see a huge improvement to that part of Shoreham. Should be worth a visit if it includes a few bars and restaurants.

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/212/481696294_1b354ffe7b_b.jpg

Cheers for that Mark, looks pretty decent doesn't it, the whole area around shoreham harbour is one of the south's largest brownfield sites and has massive potential for future development, hopefully it won't be too long before some major proposals start coming through for this area.

Good to see plans progressing with the old municipal market site.

Deal signed to transform old market
A city centre £100 million eco-development is one step closer.

Partners working to regenerate the old municipal fruit and veg market in Circus Street, Brighton, have signed a development agreement.

The carbon neutral scheme, dubbed Grow Brighton, will bring together 180 "car-free" homes with offices, a Brighton University library, a home for South East Dance, a public events square, shops, restaurants, cafés and a creative industries market.

It is claimed the regeneration of a run-down part of the city will create up to 1,400 jobs and bring in half a billion pounds in the next ten years.

A community wind turbine, roofs covered in plants, rain water collection and irrigation and a solar power plant will form a major part of the scheme.

The partners are Brighton and Hove City Council, developers Cathedral Group, Downland Housing Association, part of Affinity Sutton, and the University of Brighton.

The architects are McAslan and Partners, responsible for the renovation of De La Warr Pavilion in Bexhill.

They didn't gain overall control, but with the amount of seats the Tories gained in the local elections, I can't see the council approving any plans for taller buildings in the next four years. Maybe the Brighton Centre if anything. The leader of the Conservatives is still considering options to try and block the King Alfred development.

I'm not trying to start a political debate here, but generally I found Labour more progressive when it comes to development in Brighton and Hove.

Well yes Labour do appear to be more progressive towards development of the city but don't forget that all the Conservative councillors on the planning committee voted for the I360 tower, and most of them voted for the marina tower as well, the main development they are against is the king alfred which is understandably a very controversial project.

I do remember reading in the past that conservatives would support a tall building as part of the Brighton centre scheme, so I don't think we need to worry too much about the tories, and anyway as you say it is still a hung council, Labour and the Greens will still together have a big say in the way our city develops for the future.

I love this city!

I agree, no need to worry too much about the Tories. It's overall inward-looking backwardness that is the enemy, and none of the parties realy suffer from that here, unlike my old town.

Does anyone know anythng about the yellow buses that I read about in the Insight City News?

I just dont understand how someone in politics can make decisions on planning, without any clue of urban design or town planning behind them, how can they justify schemes and projects based upon looking at a picture and going 'nah, thats too tall'.... plain stupid!

Does anyone know anythng about the yellow buses that I read about in the Insight City News?

Ah yes the big lemon :)

http://www.thebiglemon.com/

Although Brighton & Hove buses are pretty decent, their fares are quite expensive if you are not travelling very far, hopefully the big lemon will provide a bit of healthy competition for them.

Ah yes the big lemon :)

http://www.thebiglemon.com/

Although Brighton & Hove buses are pretty decent, their fares are quite expensive if you are not travelling very far, hopefully the big lemon will provide a bit of healthy competition for them.

It is a bit of a one-size-fits-all approach from B&H buses. When I was getting myself together to move down here, the super saver fare got me from Twells and back, and being able to hop all over the city looking at flats, and back again. But if it's raining I'm not going to pay pretty much the same fare to go to work and back, now that I live here, when i't only a 20 minute walk. I remember when Brighton Buses still existed just after regulation (my dad lived here then) and you could get anywhere for 50p!!! Competition will be good thing.

About that new £12million scheme - when it says 'tube-like buses", what does that mean? Do they mean bendy buses? Or small loading guage trains designed for deep bore tunnels? Or are they bringing back the little white train thing that trundled along the seafront by the west pier years ago?

Not sure if this is of interest to anyone but....the good people of George Wimpey put a leaflet through my door this weekend relating to their plans for the Royal Alexandra Childrens Hospital site on Dyke Road. Basically, the old hospital will be entirely demolished and replaced by some pleasant but rather uninspired looking apartment blocks, (similar in style to those in the New England Quarter). I don't know much about the history of this building but it certainly has a lot of character and it seems a shame to lose it just because the developer can make more dosh by knocking it down. Any thoughts?

There's a public exhibition later in the week if anyone wants to find out more...

This is potentially good news, we need more department stores in this city so this is an ideal opportunity to bring one in.

Post office could become big store
By James Lancaster
A city centre post office could become a major department store.

The Ship Street branch in Brighton is set to be closed and moved to a corner of WH Smith in Churchill Square as part of cost-cutting measures by Post Office Ltd.

The announcement has provoked a storm of protest from traders in Brighton's commercial centre who claim businesses will suffer as a result of the move.

But Post Office Ltd says it has to sell the cavernous building, along with 75 other prime sites across the country, to help stem £70 million losses.

Now it has emerged the building could become a department store.

The site is identified in the local plan for possible redevelopment. The policy states that in the event of the post office relocating to another site in central Brighton, planning permission would be granted for retail on the ground floor.

Any department store would probably incorporate the TK Maxx site and four other stores, currently on short-term leases, which front on to North Street.

Although the Grade II listed building is not ideal, business leaders say it is likely to be the only chance to bring a new department store to Brighton in the foreseeable future.

Unusually for a city of its size, Brighton has just one department store, Debenhams in Churchill Square, following the closure of the Co-Op store in London Road.

House of Fraser has been mooted as a possible candidate for the Ship Street site.

Tony Mernagh, executive director of the Brighton and Hove Economic Partnership, said the potential redevelopment of the site represented a "silver lining" after Post Office Ltd's announcement, which would give North Street a much-needed lift.

He said: "It's unfortunate the post office is moving because, in my experience, when dedicated post office services move into shops the service is not as good.

"But the Post Office is in a state where it quite clearly needs to drag itself into the 21st Century and the sale of the Ship Street building was always a matter of when not if.

"North Street desperately needs a boost.

"It has been in a state of flux for seven years and a department store could be just the thing it needs.

"It is de facto the prime pitch in Brighton, acting as bridge between Churchill Square and The Lanes and North Laine, but it doesn't have the classy shops."

The post office moved into the Ship Street building less than three years ago. The staff of 22 employed there will either be able to apply for a position at WH Smith, move to another job with Royal Mail or take voluntary redundancy.

The relocation is expected to happen before the end of summer 2008.

Not sure if this is of interest to anyone but....the good people of George Wimpey put a leaflet through my door this weekend relating to their plans for the Royal Alexandra Childrens Hospital site on Dyke Road. Basically, the old hospital will be entirely demolished and replaced by some pleasant but rather uninspired looking apartment blocks, (similar in style to those in the New England Quarter). I don't know much about the history of this building but it certainly has a lot of character and it seems a shame to lose it just because the developer can make more dosh by knocking it down. Any thoughts?

There's a public exhibition later in the week if anyone wants to find out more...

Welcome to the forums DanB, I've heard about this but haven't seen any images of the scheme myself, I think you're right it would be a shame to lose the building for another bland apartment block.

There's a small article on the demolition of the hospital on the Brighton Business site. There is a render of the new building, which looks pretty dull. I agree that it would be a real pity to lose the current building.
http://www.brightonbusiness.co.uk/htm/ni20070509.872576.htm

This in the Argus today, potentially good news, but is seven storeys too high for this north laine site? I guess it depends on the design of the building.

Eyesore site in line for development
By Katya Mira

A new area of shops, offices and homes is earmarked for a derelict site in the heart of the North Laine, Brighton.

Developers want to follow in the footsteps of the newly-regenerated Jubilee Way by constructing a seven-storey building on the corner of Portland Street and Church Street.

It is near to the award-winning Jubilee Library, a block of restaurants and bars which were recently constructed.

The site has been a vacant lot since 1997 when the previous building was demolished and has been described as "an undeveloped eyesore prone to fly-tipping, graffiti and vandalism".

The development from Rustington-based Hargreaves Properties would include seven offices, 21 parking spaces and 42 different homes, 40 per cent of them affordable.

It would also include four shops along the Church Street side which it is anticipated would be snapped up by independent retailers and an art installation made of illuminated sticks to reflect the artistic character of the area.

Previous proposals for office blocks and town houses on the site failed to become reality because no tenants could be found. But project manager Tim Farlham said there had been a regeneration of the central city district since then.

He said: "I would like to think we would be adding to the regeneration of the North Laine by complementing and continuing the improvements which have been going on down there.

"I think Brighton has seen a resurgence in office development and lots of companies have been attracted in.

"The city has changed for the better in the past few years and there has been a shift in the North Laine area. It has become a vibrant place for people to live and work in and the creation of modern new developments reflects this."

Peter Stocker, from North Laine Trading Association, said it would be good to see the empty building being used again and would welcome new shops and homes but he was concerned about the height of the building.

He said: "North Laine is a small scale place and it is that which makes it so nice and so special.

"A seven storey building will be out of keeping with the area and will seem even higher as it is going up the hill.

"I know we have the library now which is high, but even that was very small scale in comparison to some of the other plans."

The application has been submitted to Brighton and Hove City Council

I've just heard on local BBC news that the Beetham tower by the station has been rejected by the government, not suprised really and I think it was the right decision as the tower wasn't anything special, I wonder what Beetham will do now? possibly come back with a redesign? maybe a shortened tower is on the cards?

And here's the article in the Argus.

I don't know why Beetham even bothered taking this to appeal, did they really think they could get the decision overturned?

It has been a complete waste of time, nearly 2 years has been lost due to this whole process, the site could have been developed by now if they had come back with a more suitable design when it was originally rejected by the council.

To be honest I'm not too bothered about there being a tall building on this site anymore, as long as the building is a large city-scale development and it's a good quality design, that is the most important thing for me.



Government dumps Beetham Tower plans
By Ruth Lumley

The final nail has been driven into the coffin of the plans to put a 42-storey tower block next to Brighton station.

Proposals to build the Beetham Tower near the station received fierce opposition from residents when they were unveiled.

But now the scheme seems doomed after the Government backed locals and councillors and rejected the plans.

Ruth Kelly, the Secretary of State for communities and local government, agreed with Brighton and Hove City Council that plans for the tower should be refused because the structure would have a detrimental impact on the surrounding area.

In April 2005 the council's planning committee voted unanimously against the application on the grounds it would damage the character and appearance of the area, having an impact on listed buildings and conservation areas. They also said there was a lack of outdoor recreation space in the plans.

The Beetham Organisation appealed against the council's decision and a public inquiry was held in November 2006.

Yesterday, after taking the advice of a Government planning inspector, Ms Kelly told the council she supported its decision and the reasons for it and said the tower would not provide any additional regeneration benefits over and above those in the previously agreed masterplan for the New England Quarter.

She added that the 400ft building would be alien to the form of Brighton.

Plans for the tower included 146 flats and a public rooftop garden, while the rest of the site would have contained a four-star hotel and a pedestrianised square.

The developer claimed a publicly accessible rooftop garden just below the tower's highest point would provide better views than the i360 planned for the foot of the West Pier, while the square at the foot of the tower would create a safe public space and provide a natural route from The Level, up Ann Street, to the station.

Martin Randall, city planner for the council, said: "I'm pleased that the secretary of state shares the council's view that a very tall landmark building is inappropriate on this elevated site.

"The council now looks forward to working with the owners of the site to secure an appropriate development, including the required pedestrian link from London Road to the railway station and the restoration of the green corridor that runs through the New England Quarter."

Green councillor Keith Taylor, who represents St Peter's and North Laine ward, spoke against the application in the public inquiry.

He said: "Together with local residents, I breathe a sigh of relief this wholly unwelcome project has been binned.

"The massive tower would have loomed above the historic North Laine and dominated the city centre's skyline.

"Ruth Kelly has done well to uphold the wishes of local people and the city council."

No-one from the Beetham Organisation was last night available for comment.

Thanks Brighton Boy. I admit I'm glad this one got chucked out. Perhaps Beetham should read threads like this, as if even the people who usually love tall buildings don't like the project then they don't stand a chance:lol:

I'm hoping they'll now submit a world class design for the site. Perhaps they need to go down the green route and submit something like the Multiplex Tower that is currently under construction at Elephant and Castle.

Perhaps Beetham should read threads like this, as if even the people who usually love tall buildings don't like the project then they don't stand a chance:lol:
.

Absolutely! I'm glad too, I've said before Beetham should wake up to fact the design was rubbish and no-one liked it, and thats just the skyscraper fans :lol: Maybe I'm being too harsh, but really I'm looking forward to everything else going on around here and happy this one has been declined.

Thanks for the update Btn Boy its good to keep up to date with all the goings on in Brighton! Not surprised about Beetham not getting through.. its just a shame they didn't propose a really stunning design in the first place as then it might not have been rejected and we would still be getting a tower on this site. I still think this site is perfect for a tower.. right by the station, in a central location, and being on higher ground it would have had amazing views.. just a real shame it was such a dull and uninspiring design.. and like others have said.. if we didn't even like it then the average Brighton resident would have hated it! It looks like a tower in on this site is out of the question now so my prediction is that rather than fight a new (better) design Beetham will sell on the site to another developer to place a midrise hotel on the site.. but who knows mabye they will push on with a new tower design? fingers crossed!

I’m disappointed with this decision. I accept that this tower isn’t a particularly striking design. But surely its materials and interior layout are more important.

This is not just supposed to be a work of art for the public to look at and talk about. It is supposed to house people. We can talk about surface appearance and landmark towers, but we should remember that there are one million homeless children in this country. We need mass housing of good quality, reasonable design away from conservation areas and near public transport. In other words we need developments like this to address our housing crisis.

As for ‘looming above the historic North Laine’. Theobald House, Brighton Station and several office blocks already do that. This is hardly Rottingdean.

Further news regarding the explore living Brighton marina scheme.

New-look marina plans are put on show
By Ben Parsons

The breathtaking new vision for the future of Brighton Marina has finally been unveiled.

Half a billion pounds of investment is being poured into projects to transform the concrete shopping centre and car parks into a thriving residential quarter of Brighton and Hove.

The 28-storey Marina Point tower has a 'pack of cards' design which forms the centrepiece of a £320m plan being unveiled today by developers Explore Living.

Furthest out to sea is the Roaring Forties skyscraper, a 40-storey building which is part of a £250m project led by Brunswick Developments.

Backers of the two schemes hope to turn the marina into a self-supporting district of the city, with thousands of new and affordable homes.

Amenities like a doctor's surgery, post office and bank are included in the designs in addition to the restaurants, pubs and shops already trading from the site.

While the Roaring Forties has already been approved, Explore Living is expected to apply for planning permission from Brighton and Hove City Council later this month.

The plans are going on show to the public tomorrow.

They are the result of 15 months of consultations which saw one building reduced from 15 to four storeys and the Marina Point tower moved closer to the Roaring Forties tower from its original site near the cliffs.

Rooftop gardens and a new Harbour Square to replace the roundabout at the bottom of the entrance ramp have been designed to make the marina more attractive and pedestrian-friendly.

The plans include the creation of 8,000 square metres of green space within the man-made marina structure.

Explore Living, the residential arm of construction giant Laing O'Rourke, is planning 1280 new flats in five separate complexes.

Car parking is underneath the buildings, with provision for 60 per cent of residents.

A transport interchange, designed to take account of a proposed rapid transit system, is designed for buses, taxis and tuc-tucs near the cafes and shopping area of The Octagon.

The flats - in addition to the 850 already approved as part of the Brunswick development - will create 2,000 new homes at the site.

Affordable homes account for 40 per cent of the residential units, with key workers targeted for either rented or shared ownership with housing associations.

The project is expected to create 700 new jobs.

If approved, the full development would not be complete until 2015.

Business leader Mark Froud, the chief executive of Sussex Enterprise, was among the first to welcome the plans.

He said: "The marina has a chequered past and this could be our last opportunity to see such significant private investment turn the area into a thriving city district.

"It will create jobs, attract more business and help invigorate the surrounding economy."

The Explore Living buildings are designed to use 81 per cent renewable energy and heat generated by Asda to provide cheaper hot water for their residents.

A fitness centre, cycle club and jogging track form part of the plans.

An 'eco-quarter' is included in the plans, creating a space for children next to the cliff face.

Nearly £1 million is being earmarked for public art and almost £1 million for investment in education in east Brighton.

Explore Living project leader Jim Dennis said: "We have spent over a year listening to the community to explore what their aspirations are for the western quarter of the marina.

"As a result of speaking to over 4,000 people and listening to their concerns our designs have significantly evolved to create a development that we are confident provides a balanced response to the desires of all."

Artist Jason Bruges won a competition run with the city council to design lighting for the site.

The spectacular proposals include projections on the cliff face activated by the movement of people above and below as well as reflective water features and underwater lights to illuminate the underside of the flyover.

In Park Square 'floating' light masts will move with the wind while on the sea wall floodlights will come on according to the movement of the tide and the presence of pedestrians, changing colour according to wind speeds.

European artist Lars Wolter has been commissioned to design sculptures along the side of the Sea Wall buildings.

Andrew Goodall, the managing director of Brunswick Developments, said the future of the marina has never been brighter thanks to the two projects.

He said: "It is going from strength to strength.

"When it's complete I think it will be fabulous."

When the planning application is lodged, neighbouring businesses and residents will be notified and asked for their views.

The application will go before the city council's planning sub-committee within 13 weeks.

If that committee approves, the application must then go before a meeting of the full council for consideration.

The terms of the Brighton Marina Act require full council approval for any proposed development which is higher than the cliffs at the marina.

After a launch tonight the plans will be exhibited in the information centre in The Octagon from Saturday May 19 to Friday 25 May from 10am to 4pm.

Good news on the King Alfred front, GOSE have decided NOT to call in the plans for the seafront site.

From Brighton Business website -

King Alfred decision confirmed by Ruth Kelly
Brighton & Hove City Council has been told by government officials that they will not be ‘calling in’ the King Alfred application.

This confirms the decision by the city council’s planning committee on March 23 to grant planning permission

The Government Office for the South East had been considering whether to call in the application since April 3, when they received information requested from the council on the various representations for and against the scheme.

GOSE has told the council that the Secretary of State’s view was that intervention would not be justified as there was not sufficient conflict with national policies, or any other sufficient reason to warrant calling in the application.

Thanks Brighton Boy, your updates are really useful. Great news.

I'm still upset about Beetham though. The North Laine is a nice area, but architectually it's not significant. It is predominantly tiny workers cottages surrounded by ordinary office blocks, and run-down in places. I would't be happy to see this building near Brunswick square, but it seems perfect in this location.

Yes I agree that this site is ideal for a tall building, but I don't think we can allow such a bland faceless building to be constructed on such a prime elevated site, we need something outstanding on this site if it is to be seen from miles around, hopefully Beetham will now come back with a truly special proposal.
I'm guessing something in the region of 20 storeys may be on the cards.

This from the Argus -

Plans for high rise tower block to be reviewed
By Ruth Lumley


An organisation is to review its plans for a high rise tower block in a city centre after the Government threw out the proposals.

Hugh Frost, chairman of the Beetham Organisation, which was hoping to build the 42-storey tower next to Brighton train station, said they intended to work in close collaboration with Brighton and Hove City Council on the development for the New England Quarter.

The proposals for the building, which would have been 400ft high, contained 146 flats, a public rooftop garden, hotel and pedestrianised square, faced fierce opposition from residents and councillors.

On Wednesday, Ruth Kelly, the Secretary of State for communities and local government, agreed with Brighton and Hove City Council's planners to reject the tower following a public inquiry last November.

Mr Frost said: "We are reviewing the incisive comments made in the inspector's report to the Secretary of State as a result of the public inquiry.

"We remain committed to delivering an exciting building to house a first-class hotel and apartments, incorporating a public square, landscaping and the provision of a link to the station, which will be a tremendous enhancement to New England Square.

"The site is concealed behind a nondescript 1980s building and the Victorian railway station and therefore it is important that the hotel design delivers a building with a sense of presence. We are confident that we can produce a new plan for the site that will satisfy both Brighton and Hove City Council and the local community."

Great news about King Alfred. At last we have 3 projects - King Alfred, i360 and the Roaring Forties, that have no other hurdles save getting the contractors onsite.

I originally wanted the New England tower approved, but I see everyones point that it isn't special enough given its elevated location. I still like it, but perhaps it is more suited to a place like next to the towers in the city centre if anywhere. I really hope the developers come up with something more unique... or Brighton like.

Any pictures of the Marina stuff yet?

yes i have them here. ill write something on it and put them online on skyscrapernews :)
looks an interesting building btw.

http://www.skyscrapernews.com/news.php?ref=937

Cheers for that Gothic, I like the look of this :)

Marina Point Tower
http://www.skyscrapernews.com/images/pics/5127MarinaPoint_pic1.jpg

I love it! This is where the current Asda petrol station stands right? It's stunning and really original looking (Beetham take note!!) :banana:

Excellent! Looks about 80m? Approx same as Sussex Towers?

Wow, Marina Point looks great. Wouldn't mind that angled top section to start from a lower floor. I see there is already a huge amount of whinging about the project on the Argus comments pages :ohno:

Oh i just read its designed by the same guys who designed the Brighton Beetham.. wonder why they couldn't come up with something like this for Beetham? If this scheme goes ahead it will totally transform the marina.. Asda will be demolished and rebuilt (bigger than before), as will the petrol station and McDonalds.. i think it looks like a great project and will provide much needed new housing for the area (40% affordable) the towers are both great looking and original but i think the public transport provisions could be better.. i wonder if they will ever build that proposed tram/monorail to link the marina with the city centre?

http://www.brightonmarinaregeneration.co.uk/action/updates.aspx?widID=15&uID=34

you can see more renders and online presentation

Looks very nice indeed.

i wonder if they will ever build that proposed tram/monorail to link the marina with the city centre?



We already have a light rail system linking the city centre with the marina!

In the form of the volks electric railway of course! :D

http://www.colinfparsons.btinternet.co.uk/twinp/colhome/volks/train-start.jpg

It would be good if they could somehow upgrade the existing volks railway with new larger carriages, and an extension into the heart of the marina, but then I guess it wouldn't be so much of an historic attraction.

Anyway I think the council are pushing for a bus based 'rapid transit system' with 'tube like buses' to run along the seafront from the marina to the king alfred, I don't quite know exactly what is planned but I think there will be dedicated lanes for these new buses, which could mean a guided bus system is on the cards.

Letter in today's Argus from Keith Taylor of the Greens in Brighton - who actually supported the King Alfred at first.

King Alfred project was ‘design by chequebook’

Your correspondent P Brickman (Letters, May 22) is entirely wrong to say the Green Party supported the recently refused Beetham Tower planning application at Brighton Station.

Following my ten year involvement with residents and campaigners in trying to secure a sustainable development of the station site, I gave evidence to the Beetham public inquiry, together with fellow Green councillor Sue Paskins.

Like many others, we breathed a sigh of relief as this unwelcome and wholly inappropriate development was binned.

We also stand accused of voting through the King Alfred project. This is also wrong.

We support the idea of paying for leisure facilities and affordable homes through market housing - after all, Brighton and Hove City Council's coffers are empty and the Government denies us the opportunity to raise cash for housebuilding ourselves.

But even after securing extra money for seafront transport and training in construction skills and many other concessions, nothing could disguise the fact the King Alfred project was asking for too much from too small a site. The initial design ideas were good, but then "design by chequebook" took over to the ultimate detriment of the project and its surroundings.

We tried to broker a deal to relocate some housing off-site to reduce the project's impact, but that agreement was back-tracked by the then-Labour council. Basic questions, such as which schools children will attend, remain unanswered.

The granting of the King Alfred permission was a travesty, the effects of which are still rumbling through a now-divided council planning department.

Senior officers are quitting their long-held jobs in tight-lipped farewells. I have not seen such corporate interference in planning matters since the Falmer stadium approval was pushed through.

The long-term interests of the city have not been best served.

Councillor Keith Taylor, St Peter's and North Laine ward and Green Party convenor, Brighton and Hove City Council

As soon as king alfred is built i'm sure all this ridiculous rant will end. I really think this development will help hove.

Cheers for that Gothic, I like the look of this :)

Marina Point Tower
http://www.skyscrapernews.com/images/pics/5127MarinaPoint_pic1.jpg

That looks realy good! I hope it goes ahead, has the planning permission been submitted yet?

Cheers Schmeek, there are indeed some great projects happening at the moment, my favourite has to be the roaring forties tower at the marina which has just started construction so expect to see some pics of this beauty rising some time soon! :)
http://www.brightonmarinafuture.co.uk/images/future1.jpg

I have had a browse at some of the Bristol projects and I'm glad to see that broadmead is currently undergoing a major transformation, it really did let Bristol down so it's good to see lots of quality construction in that area and will greatly improve Bristol's retail scene.


Has this really started construction, any photos?

That looks realy good! I hope it goes ahead, has the planning permission been submitted yet?

Not yet, I think they plan to submit the plans within the next couple of months.

Also we're still awaiting the the arena plans to be submitted, they seem to be taking their time over it.

Has this really started construction, any photos?

They have started building the platform over the beach at the marina which the tower will eventually be built on, so yes the scheme is underway but nothing rising as of yet, as soon as we start to see some towering action I shall be ready with my camera and will post the pics on here :)

Just thought you'd all like to know there is a documentary hosted by Simon Fanshaw next Monday (18th June) on BBC 1 at 22:35 about Brighton's new developments. :)

Building Britain
Time - 22:35 - 23:05 (30 minutes long)
When - Monday 18th June on BBC 1 South + South East


Journalist and broadcaster Simon Fanshawe makes a passionate plea for people in his home town of Brighton and Hove to stop complaining and accept the exciting new developments taking place in the city. He focuses on three high profile building projects that will radically alter Brighton's seafront.

From the Argus today.

We still like to buy beside the seaside
By Simon Barrett

Brighton and Hove has been named as the most desirable place in the UK for people looking to buy a new home.

Although the Albion might have stuttered to a mid-table finish last season, the city itself is in pole position for attracting homebuyers.

Each month a league table of towns is published based on the 'Moving Location Index', complied by the UK Property Shop.

Brighton and Hove topped the league for May.

Brighton features regularly in the league table and was last voted top in May last year. Reasons given for its popularity include the city combining the benefits of a Regency beach resort, strong on culture and entertainment, with proximity to London.

The news has come as no surprise to civic leaders and estate agents alike in the city.

Adam Spender, senior negotiator at the city's Mason Mackay estate agent, said: "Brighton and Hove is consistently popular with people looking to relocate.

"The city has so much going for it and it is not hard to see why people want to move here. As well as a bustling city life you are only a short drive away from the downs or a quiet Sussex village, so it's the best of both worlds really.

"The market has levelled out a bit at the moment and prices have steadied, but Brighton is really still a seller's market."

City Councillor Georgia Wrighton said: "It doesn't surprise me at all. This is a city which has a lot going for it and attracts people from far and wide.

"The quality of life factor comes into play and I think people see Brighton and Hove as just a really nice place to live. I suppose it is also no coincidence that Brighton has been named top just as the summer approaches."

Appearing as a regular monthly report, 'Moving Location Index' details the top 50 most popular locations for people buying a home. The index is based on data from people using the company website, www.ukpropertyshop.co.uk, to contact estate agents.

UK Property Shop spokesman Guy Burgess said: "Our service is aimed at anyone who is interested in the residential property market - house buyers, sellers, landlords, tenants and estate agents. The Moving Location Index is a reflection of people's aspirations to relocate and capitalise on their property investment, or who simply wish to achieve a high standard of living in a popular area such as Brighton."

we would say groundwork has started on the marina, except of course it is being built over the sea so not strictly ground!

Work is finally to begin on the Brighton eye :)

Brighton Eye builders to begin within weeks
By Andy Chiles

WORK will begin on the 172m tall Brighton i360 within six weeks.

The developers behind the seafront structure have announced that construction will begin on Monday, July 23, and will be completed in 2009.

The needle tower with an ascending and descending circular viewing platform will be built at the foot of Brighton's wrecked West Pier.

London Eye architects Marks Barfield, who are running the project, made the announcement to members of the West Pier Trust on Thursday. (june14) Trust general manager Rachel Clark said: "We are absolutely delighted there is finally going to be some significant work and the pier is ready to experience a bright new dawn."

The go-ahead for the project was granted after the Noble Organisation, the owners of the Palace Pier, dropped their objections against it.

The firm had continually attempted to block any redevelopment at the site of the rival West Pier.

The Trust said it hoped building the i360 would eventually lead to a new pier being built at the site.

The original, built in 1866, was destroyed by arson attacks in 2002 after lying derelict since 1975.

The first stage of work on the i360 will be to remove various artefacts of the original pier which are being stored under the remaining base area.

Many were preserved while hopes remained that the Grade 1 listed piercould be rebuilt as a heritage project. Some have not been moved for 30 years.

The market which is held in the area will be moved while work is carried out but will eventually return to the same site.

The seafront footpath running alongside the base of the pier will be closed during construction with a replacement put in place further down the beach.

David Marks, from Marks Barfield, said: "We are looking forward to seeing things get started. It is all starting to move along now."

The new tower has been backed by Brighton and Hove city councillors and tourism bosses who believe it will attract even more visitors to the city.

The i360 will be Britain's highest observation tower providing panoramic views across the channel, along the south coast and over the South Downs.

The pod, which has a capacity of 125 people, would be more than nine times the size of a London Eye capsule.

West Pier Trust board member Adam Trimingham said: "It is a wonderful step forward. It has been 32 years since the pier closed and this is the first really positive move since then."

Our retail scene is looking very healthy indeed, we just need to provide the space so that all these quality retailers can set up shop here.

To be honest I'm suprised that no other significant retail scheme apart from the expansion of churchill square has been proposed, I think some buildings on North street and Western road could be expanded/redeveloped to help house some of these new retailers.

It is good to see that John Lewis, who will be opening up the road in Crawley in a few years as part of a retail expansion, are still interested in opening here in Brighton, as it was feared they would not open two stores in Sussex.


Big stores fight for space in Brighton
Hundreds of high street retailers are fighting to get a foothold in Brighton and Hove.

Big name stores clamouring to get into the city include House of Fraser, John Lewis and Muji.

The city has become one of the top ten most sought after destinations in the country to trade.

The list of 450 retailers vying to set up shop in Brighton and Hove has increased the value of the city's premises.

The freehold for the building which houses the Strada shop in North Street, Brighton, last year sold for £5.1 million.

It measures 7,066 square feet over two floors and generates a yearly rental income of £272,980.

The building which houses Hugo Boss and East in East Street, Brighton, is expected to attract bids in excess of £5 million.

It measures 4,254 square feet over two floors and generates a yearly rental income of £241,000.

Brighton & Hove Business Forum executive director Tony Mernagh said the East Street shop will attract a lot of interest but most big name retailers want a larger shop.

He said: "If I had £5 million I would buy it because it is a good investment.

"East Street is one of the classiest areas of the city.

"So many retailers want a place in Brighton and Hove but cannot find the space.

"The demand for retailers willing to pay the rent means it is not surprising that when a freehold becomes available is sells for a high price.

"If you think of another town and think of the stores there which are not in Brighton and Hove, they all want to come here."

The combined income of the shops in Brighton last year totalled just under £1 billion.

If the retailers who wanted to trade in Brighton were given space, the yearly income would rise to £2.2 billion.

The premises in East Street is being sold by estate agents Savills of Grosvenor Hill in London.

Director of high street investment Jeremy Lovell said: "Brighton is a powerful retailing centre.

"There is an imbalance of supply and demand in the area.

"There are lots of quality retailers wanting to take space but there is a little amount of space to take.

"East Street has become the equivalent of Bond Street in London.

"East Street has evolved so well and attracts the top end boutiques is because buildings in The Lanes are too small for larger retailers.

"You can tell there is a lot of retail opportunity in the city.

"There are no boards up outside the shops because retailers are not looking to leave."

To be honest I'm suprised that no other significant retail scheme apart from the expansion of churchill square has been proposed, I think some buildings on North street and Western road could be expanded/redeveloped to help house some of these new retailers.


I have a strong hunch an expansion for the Churchhill Square shopping area will be included in the Brighton Centre redevelopment plans.

great stuff Brighton:)

I have a strong hunch an expansion for the Churchhill Square shopping area will be included in the Brighton Centre redevelopment plans.

Yes, I hope plans for the Brighton centre area are released soon as I'm getting very impatient!

This site is such an important site in the heart of Brighton, and must be done properly so I guess it is good that they are taking a while drawing up the plans as we need to get this right, only the highest quality development will be acceptable here.

They have started building the platform over the beach at the marina which the tower will eventually be built on, so yes the scheme is underway but nothing rising as of yet, as soon as we start to see some towering action I shall be ready with my camera and will post the pics on here :)

Cracking stuff can't wait to see this grow. Looking forward to your updates.

Anyone watch the program on Monday night BBC (forget which channel) at 2235 about modern architecture in Britain? It was all about the Marina, i360 and the King Alfred developments, featuring interviews with the MD of Brunswick, the guy behing King Alfred at Karis and the guy from the pair that are doing the i360, along with a couple of interviews from opponents, and an interview with the council.

There wasn't really anything in there we don't already know (it was only half an hour) but it was still exciting to watch, and the presenter is quite enthusiastic about are new projects around here. What I did realise is how similar the overall bulk of the Marina and King Alfred projects are, and how they will have a symmetrical effect, being equidistant from the city center.

It was also intersting to that the council declared they have a tall buildings policy - does anyone know what the detail of this is or how to find it?

Yes I saw the program, I think Simon Fanshawe did a good job at presenting it, and made some very good points.

The tall building policy is here - http://www.brighton-hove.gov.uk/downloads/bhcc/localplan2001/15_SPGBHTall_buildings.pdf

:)

Oh excellent thanks!

Took some pictures in town today, mainly around the up and coming northern half of the city centre although I move out of this area towards the end of this set. :)


Here's the new Jurys inn hotel, coming along nicely.
http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1116/601956264_aa065ef856.jpg?v=0

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1245/601668871_6065046181.jpg?v=0

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1236/601669553_4a1d4b073f.jpg?v=0


Other buildings under construction as part of the new england quarter
http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1158/601958612_86f4bf4f7f.jpg?v=0


Preston circus, not the most attractive entrance into central Brighton.
http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1347/601671711_4474ddf7c1.jpg?v=0

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1362/601960780_31ce80be2e.jpg?v=0


Looking towards the new england quarter from Ditchling road
http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1176/601674321_4c76eb68e4.jpg?v=0


Baker street looking towards London road and the new england quarter.
http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1184/601675209_dbddab8b3f.jpg?v=0

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1320/601964226_60df1236df.jpg?v=0

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1002/601965086_6ed6c55f11.jpg?v=0


The open market with St Bartholomews church in the background
http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1184/601965620_4222f606f5.jpg?v=0


Oxford street looking towards London road, with St Barts church looming over in the background.
http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1197/601678733_ed09cbca26.jpg?v=0


London road must be finally on the up, a Costa has arrived ;)
http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1395/601679339_1f5d169475.jpg?v=0


Not far away is this, the old Sainsburys store all boarded up
http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1404/601968450_5b619cca05.jpg?v=0


Cheapside looking up towards the trafalger place office complex
http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1013/601969890_b6bdc823e0.jpg?v=0


Looking up London road with the former Co-op department store in the distance
http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1418/601970822_a0724d10d1.jpg?v=0


Following the success of their venues in London, Liverpool, Birmingham etc Barfly have decided to take over what used to be the Gloucester nightclub and turn it into a live music venue, the Brighton Barfly.
http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1157/601971638_bf639467fc.jpg?v=0


Buildings on Grand parade
http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1165/601972608_4438d6ba65.jpg?v=0


The old Astoria theatre, plans were announced around 10 years ago to turn it back into one of Brighton's premier theatres, today it still stands derelict and forgotton, what has happened to the plans?
http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1411/601684645_990cc90446.jpg?v=0


Fountain back in operation on Victoria gardens
http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1248/601685327_8a1f01db3c.jpg?v=0


Usual Saturday traffic on Grand parade
http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1305/601685983_190f2ecb25.jpg?v=0

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1175/601978680_5cf748874b.jpg?v=0

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1393/601690539_b32b0b89a0.jpg?v=0


Lloyds TSB Offices
http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1211/601686703_dc73391103.jpg?v=0

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1090/601977340_4b2c83d45e.jpg?v=0


The site where the grow Brighton scheme will be built, the old municipal market on Circus street.
http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1079/601689047_cc7b102a77.jpg?v=0


Marlborough place
http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1222/601691911_2704c4dfbd.jpg?v=0


The Old Steine
http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1055/601981150_5dbf18a2a4.jpg?v=0

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1280/601693297_dd3dd7eb88.jpg?v=0

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1229/601982676_cf9a0e7dda.jpg?v=0


Looking towards the Old Steine from Castle square
http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1122/601694529_c94fe41749_o.jpg


North street
http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1081/601983840_a87902d34f.jpg?v=0


New road with it's new pedestrian friendly makeover is now almost complete, I love the new wooden benches running along the length of the street.
http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1293/601984516_0597ca8e18.jpg?v=0

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1400/601985190_db3315fc23.jpg?v=0

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1215/601986072_03ebd5024f.jpg?v=0

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1007/601986996_db8491eeae.jpg?v=0


The new 'myhotel' boutique hotel under construction at Jubilee square
http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1119/601987690_7a2eef8f2c.jpg?v=0

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1304/601699941_78c390b715.jpg?v=0

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1345/601700735_117e159b0d.jpg?v=0


Couple of North Laine pics
http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1094/601989996_98b1243512.jpg?v=0

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1151/601702273_e5b050b65c.jpg?v=0

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1416/601703113_bfbf9d2735.jpg?v=0

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1044/601993186_018c856dab.jpg?v=0


The new Brighton Carling Academy coming along nicely
http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1398/601705661_d7494ff0aa.jpg?v=0

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1208/601994548_21a5c0ef13.jpg?v=0

Surprise surprise, the Tories are trying to block the King Alfred. Story from the Argus today:bash:


Shock blow to King Alfred plans

Brighton and Hove's flagship King Alfred project was thrown into doubt after extraordinary scenes at a planning meeting this afternoon.

The city council's planning committee voted to take back power from officers just as they were about to rubberstamp the finer details of the application. The move prompted legal threats from Josh Arghiros, joint managing director of developer Karis Holdings.

Speaking after the meeting Mr Arghiros told The Argus: "I'm pretty sure it was held up at the request of the leader of the council.

"This is contrary to their obligations. It is a political manoeuvre to stifle the King Alfred project.

"We are now considering our position. We have had our lawyers here today and we will be using all legal remedies to address this."

More than 750 new homes and a state of the art leisure centre would be included in the redevelopment of the dilapidated King Alfred sports centre site on Hove seafront.

World-renowned architect Frank Gehry's tower design for the site has divided opinion across the city.

Under the planning consent given by the then Labour-dominated committee in March, a series of conditions from Karis Holdings had to be met.

These included financial contributions towards a variety of schemes such as improved public transport and the inclusion of police offices and a doctor's surgery.

The latest twist means the planning committee will have the final say on what planners refer to as a "section 106 agreement".

This has prompted criticism from the developers who see this as nothing more than a delaying tactic by the new Conservative administration which has long been opposed to the £290 million development.

Surprise surprise, the Tories are trying to block the King Alfred. Story from the Argus today:bash:

All that's happening is that the planning committee are making sure Karis carry out the Section 106 commitments they agreed to when planning permission was granted. What's the problem with that?

All that's happening is that the planning committee are making sure Karis carry out the Section 106 commitments they agreed to when planning permission was granted. What's the problem with that?

I hope that's all it is and that the Argus have sensationalised the story, but I think most people are highly suspicious of their (the tories) motives, as they have been vehemently opposed to this development. I think the fear is that this is part of some underhand attempt, led by Brian Oxley, to scupper the project now that the tories are the single biggest party on the council.

I hope that's all it is and that the Argus have sensationalised the story, but I think most people are highly suspicious of their (the tories) motives, as they have been vehemently opposed to this development. I think the fear is that this is part of some underhand attempt, led by Brian Oxley, to scupper the project now that the tories are the single biggest party on the council.

If the developer is/was intending to make good on the commitments with which it got planning permission, then there shouldn't be a problem, should there? As far as I can see it, it's completely in their hands - which is why it seems a little strange for their response to be to threaten to sue the council.

If the developer is/was intending to make good on the commitments with which it got planning permission, then there shouldn't be a problem, should there? As far as I can see it, it's completely in their hands - which is why it seems a little strange for their response to be to threaten to sue the council.

Taken at face value yes I think you are right, but to me it seems unlikely to be a coincidence that they have taken what appears to be a highly unusual step on a project that they just happen to despise.

I am less than convinced that the Tories motivation was to ensure that the developer complies with all their planning obligations, and judging by the developer's reaction neither are they. I am not basing this on any in depth knowledge of the planning process as I have none, just on my mistrust of Conservative politicians.

Well I think it was kind of to be expected, GOSE didn't call it in, a judicial review looks very unlikely, and this was probably the only possible way the tories could delay the project for a short time whilst they think of a way to try and halt the project.

I personally don't think they will be able to do anything, the scheme has the official go ahead and i think this is just their way of saying 'oh well, we tried our best' to all the king alfred objectors and tory supporters as it was a part of their manifesto to see if there was a way of stopping the project.
This is just to show they have made some effort in order to please their voters.

ING and Karis could sue the council for up to 60 million pounds, so I really cannot see the council delaying this scheme any further, it is a last ditch attempt to delay the scheme, nothing else.
The council simply would not be able to deal with a 60 million pound fine.

Anyways, welcome to the forums El Dude Brother. :)

Taken at face value yes I think you are right, but to me it seems unlikely to be a coincidence that they have taken what appears to be a highly unusual step on a project that they just happen to despise.

I am less than convinced that the Tories motivation was to ensure that the developer complies with all their planning obligations, and judging by the developer's reaction neither are they. I am not basing this on any in depth knowledge of the planning process as I have none, just on my mistrust of Conservative politicians.

Well, surely someone has to make sure the planning obligations are complied with? The questionable thing was taking that power away from the (elected) councillors and giving it to (unelected) council officers in the first place.

As far as I can see, if the developer complies with all the commitments they agreed to, then they should get the go-ahead. If they don't, they won't. That seems pretty reasonable to me - unlike threatening to sue the council and effectively punish every council tax payer in the city in response.

Although, that said, no-one seems to be able to say what Karis would actually be suing the council for...?

Well I think it was kind of to be expected, GOSE didn't call it in, a judicial review looks very unlikely, and this was probably the only possible way the tories could delay the project for a short time whilst they think of a way to try and halt the project.

I personally don't think they will be able to do anything, the scheme has the official go ahead and i think this is just their way of saying 'oh well, we tried our best' to all the king alfred objectors and tory supporters as it was a part of their manifesto to see if there was a way of stopping the project.
This is just to show they have made some effort in order to please their voters.

ING and Karis could sue the council for up to 60 million pounds, so I really cannot see the council delaying this scheme any further, it is a last ditch attempt to delay the scheme, nothing else.
The council simply would not be able to deal with a 60 million pound fine.

Anyways, welcome to the forums El Dude Brother. :)

Cheers!

There is a bit more about the story here, but it doesn't really shed much more light on the subject:
http://www.brightonbusiness.co.uk/htm/ni20070628.411035.htm

Hope Fitz is right and it's a non-story. As a Hove resident I can't wait for this to get built.

What seems a bit odd is that they've taken the power away from un-elected (and therefore supposedly unbiased) officials to sign various documents confirming compliance with the section 106, and put it into the hands of a partisan group of elected officials who have already gone through the democratic process of giving planning permission. They've done this at the last minute, only those who want the project stopped have pushed this motion, it changes the playing field into a very different one from the one the developers agreed to.

Smells mighty fishy to me.

What seems a bit odd is that they've taken the power away from un-elected (and therefore supposedly unbiased) officials to sign various documents confirming compliance with the section 106, and put it into the hands of a partisan group of elected officials who have already gone through the democratic process of giving planning permission. They've done this at the last minute, only those who want the project stopped have pushed this motion, it changes the playing field into a very different one from the one the developers agreed to.

Smells mighty fishy to me.

But the reason the development had to have no fewer than 85 conditions attached to its permission in the first place was because it was rushed in front of the planning committee just weeks before local elections the (then) council were widely expected to lose - and which they did.

It's a bit rich to complain that one "partisan" group of councillors is now (supposedly) blocking the development when another, just-as-partisan group of councillors has spent the last four years bending rules and spending council tax money supporting it.

Surely the only change in the playing field for the developers is that it's now more of a level one.

Perhaps it is "fairer" now, maybe a balance has been made, I just think it's an unprofessional way of going about it, and the developers are right when they say other developers will think twice about whether they can work with the council if this carries on too much.

Perhaps it is "fairer" now, maybe a balance has been made, I just think it's an unprofessional way of going about it, and the developers are right when they say other developers will think twice about whether they can work with the council if this carries on too much.

Let's be honest, there's been little in the way of professionalism from anyone since the whole saga of the KA began. Getting the local paper to print front page stories about how Brad Pitt was helping Gehry with the design wasn't very professional, was it?

I don't see any reason why developers or businesses would be put off Brighton by the KA - why would they not look at the way the Marina is now on its way to being built, or the i360, which was passed by unanimous vote at the planning committee?

Incidentally, nice of someone to try and send me a virus via a private messages here. Classy stuff, Richie...

Incidentally, nice of someone to try and send me a virus via a private messages here. Classy stuff, Richie...

I'm dissapointed that you think it was me, as I totally respect you and your opinions Fitz, I would never stoop so low.

Besides, how can someone send a virus through private on here anyway?

I'm dissapointed that you think it was me, as I totally respect you and your opinions Fitz, I would never stoop so low.

Besides, how can someone send a virus through private on here anyway?

Apologies if it wasn't you, BB.

It was a link to a site that my office was warned about last week as being a trigger for a virus.

Good news here I think guys, what do you all make of this?

King Alfred to get planning permission within days
By Lee Gibbs

Council leader Brian Oxley has cleared the way for the King Alfred development to be built.

He will ask members of Brighton and Hove City Council to sign off a raft of conditions which need to be met if the towers are to get planning permission - known as the Section 106 legal agreements.

Coun Oxley said he called a meeting of the planning applications sub-committee to "avoid further delay and speculation about the project".

The Frank Gehry-designed project is now likely to get planning permission by the end of next week.

Conservative councillors unexpectedly announced a plan to take back control of conditions attached to the scheme from senior planning officers last week.

Developer Karis and financial backer ING responded by threatening to sue the council for up to £60 million if the project was delayed or disrupted.

Councillor Oxley said: "Sufficient progress had been made in the three days leading up to the last planning committee that the developers were asking for the Section 106 agreement to be signed immediately.

"The redevelopment proposals have generated a huge amount of local feeling so I felt honour-bound to make sure councillors were given the opportunity to consider the detail of the Section 106 legal agreement, rather than leaving that responsibility to officers."

On Thursday last week, The Argus asked council leader Brian Oxley if he would respond to ten questions relating to Wednesday's meeting. We have not received a response.

Coun Oxley said: "We understand our contractual commitments to the developers and have no intention of trying to break the terms of the agreement.

"Officers have worked well to produce a very comprehensive set of conditions for members to consider.

"I believe the extra time we are taking to make sure that this decision isn't rushed, and that councillors have the time they need to get the appropriate legal advice from officers, is a very sensible investment in the future of our city.

"With hindsight I believe more openness and transparency at the earlier stages of this scheme may have prevented such a high level of suspicion locally.

"The council has now established the major projects sub-committee to work on large scale developments of this sort that have city-wide repercussions. I believe strongly that this will lead to more transparent decision making.

"This new committee is also a clear sign to developers looking at other local projects of our commitment to working with them in a constructive and professional manner to deliver developments that will really benefit our city."

The planning applications sub-committee will meet on Wednesday next week at 9.45am at Hove Town Hall.

Gill Mitchell, leader of the Labour opposition, said: " I welcome Coun Oxley's decision to bring to an end this unnecessary delay and to hopefully now get this important development underway.

"I totally refute any suggestion that the process has not been an open one. This has been a long and careful procedure, with decisions taken in public at key stages based on full information being made available - unlike the debacle witnessed at the last planning committee meeting where information was only made available to councillors at the last minute and an attempt made by the Conservative chairman to push the vote through with no debate.

"Next Wednesday, the committee must base its decision on the interests of the city as a whole."

Karis Holdings, the company behind the King Alfred, said: "We understand that the leader of the council is now satisfied that everything is in order and we expect the Section 106 to be signed off and planning permission to be issued by the end of next week."

Re: King Alfred: Sounds like some council members obtained a legal opinion!

Thanks for update Brighton Boy. I still don't see why the sign off of section 106 should have been removed from the planning officers in the first place. Surely with years of experience in handling planning applications they are in a far better position to ensure compliance with section 106 than the city's councillors, some of who have only been in the job a few weeks and will not have had any specific training or background in planning.
Had a quick look at the section 106 document on the council website (I know I need to get a life!). Link here if interested http://wam.brighton-hove.gov.uk/PlanningWAM/doc/Supporting%20Document(s)-754400.pdf?extension=.pdf&id=754400&location=VOLUME1&contentType=application/pdf&pageCount=9

Thanks for update Brighton Boy. I still don't see why the sign off of section 106 should have been removed from the planning officers in the first place. Surely with years of experience in handling planning applications they are in a far better position to ensure compliance with section 106 than the city's councillors, some of who have only been in the job a few weeks and will not have had any specific training or background in planning.
Had a quick look at the section 106 document on the council website (I know I need to get a life!). Link here if interested http://wam.brighton-hove.gov.uk/PlanningWAM/doc/Supporting%20Document(s)-754400.pdf?extension=.pdf&id=754400&location=VOLUME1&contentType=application/pdf&pageCount=9

As far as I know, the planning department recently lost both its head of Development and the head of Planning for Hove.

Excellent news for the city today, SEEDA have confirmed they are to invest in the massive Brighton centre redevelopment plans which paves the way for the scheme to get off the ground, as previously there was a funding gap. :)



SEEDA makes Brighton and Hove Diamond sparke with £23M Investm
Source: South East England Development Agency (SEEDA)
Published Wednesday, 4 July, 2007 - 12:15
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The South East England Development Agency (SEEDA) has today announced major investments of £23million to accelerate substantial redevelopment projects throughout Brighton and Hove - the heart of a key " Diamond for Investment and Growth" with potential for economic benefit all along the South Coast.

This significant investment from SEEDA will play an integral role in the transformation of the City ' s Convention Centre into a world class venue as part of a major retail development, and will provide funding for the transport infrastructure necessary to enable the Community Stadium in East Brighton to be built, should it be granted planning permission by the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government.

The Regional Economic Strategy (RES) for the South East 2006-2016 has identified Brighton and Hove as a crucial location which has the potential to act as a catalyst to stimulate greater economic and social prosperity across wider areas; offering scope for other areas to benefit from sustainable growth based on targeted investment in their own infrastructures. The Coastal South East is also recognised as an area of 'untapped economic potential' , and SEEDA, working collaboratively with a wide range of partners, is looking at innovative and imaginative ways to release this potential for growth.

Pam Alexander, SEEDA's Chief Executive explained:"Brighton and Hove is widely heralded as one of the key urban areas in the South East and our funding demonstrates our long-term commitment to investing in its future prosperity. A thriving and vibrant Brighton and Hove is central to our vision of a region synonymous with world-class business excellence and economic prosperity for all; yet embracing a sustainable and impressive quality of life."

"One of SEEDA's key objectives within the RES is to release the enterprise potential of the creative industries, leisure facilities and the visitor economy on the Coastal South East. These factors are all prevalent in Brighton and Hove and were a major influence in designating the City as one of eight > '> Diamonds for Investment and Growth in the RES.

"This significant investment which we are making with Brighton and Hove City Council in the new retail development will help the City to re-establish itself as one of the leading convention centre destinations both in the UK and in Europe, providing a major boost for the local economy, attracting both business and leisure travellers.

"Our support for the Community Stadium in East Brighton, subject to planning decisions, will not only have significant benefits for the local community in terms of infrastructure but will also help to open up other opportunities for investment which will themselves generate further jobs in an area of serious disadvantage, and a gateway to Brighton and Hove. The Brighton & Hove Economic Partnership has been instrumental in bringing together support for these projects across the City."
The investments will also assist the development of the higher education and research cluster along the City 's Academic Corridor's improving transport links between the universities and the City centre.

The existing Brighton Centre is 30 years old and as the meetings industry under-goes significant changes so too must the building if it is to remain successful. The proposed new £100 million Convention Centre, which will be designed to the highest architectural quality and standards of sustainability, will primarily be used for conferences for up to 1,500 delegates and will offer increased exhibition space and banqueting facilities.

Brighton and Hove City Council is working closely with Standard Life Investment, which owns the adjacent Churchill Square Shopping Centre. The preferred way forward is to incorporate the new Brighton Convention Centre into a much larger retail scheme and create a prestigious four star hotel which will release significant value to support the Centre and is expected to create a significant number of new jobs. The investment is subject to approval by the Department of Trade and Industry and SEEDA will be working with partners to agree the full funding package in support of the long-term benefits of this development.

Welcoming SEEDA's funding announcement, Brighton & Hove City Council Leader,
Cllr Brian Oxley said: "It is fantastic news that SEEDA has made this decision and endorses the excellent work that our team has been doing to progress our vision for the Brighton Centre as a major part of the City's economic future. We look forward to the decision of the Department of Industry to confirm SEEDA'ss approach."

The Chairman of the City Council's Major Projects sub committee, Cllr Garry Peltzer Dunn, added: " This is a massive vote of confidence by SEEDA in the future of Brighton & Hove and reinforces the council's determination to ensure that the City remains in the forefront of the leisure and conference industry not only in the United Kingdom, but worldwide."

Danny McHugh, Investment Director at Standard Life Investments, commented:" SEEDA's support and involvement will assist in the aim to realise a challenging and exciting project. The potential to combine a new Brighton Centre with an expansion of Churchill Square and the introduction of a further mix of uses in such a prominent site presents a fantastic opportunity." Tony Mernagh, Chief Executive of Brighton & Hove Economic Partnership, added:"These schemes could not have got this far without the assistance of SEEDA. This is another example of excellent partnership working."

Oh goody, we are a key diamond opportunity cluster thang for SEEDA. Hurrah. Let the good times roll. We are a diamond. We get £23m, in a town where that buys 40 family-sized houses. Instant transformation obviously.

New England is looking totally shit - that new block you see from the station, the long white one, is just shit. And it's going to look a whole lot shitter once it ages and stains with rain and bird shit and grime. It's windows are shit also. What a grotesque, mean, pointless pile of shit. The Sainsbury's is total shit also - hateful - the London Road branch had character, this new one is just hideous. I can't shop in Sainsbury's anyway as they dont tell you which of the wines are vegetarian.

I wonder if a private equity developer conglomerate should buy the whole New England site, plus the station, and put in a huge fuck-off proposal for SKYSCRAPERS there: the south east of England could meets its housing growth targets with a cluster of very very tall buildings on that huge site. The air rights over Brighton station must be huge, you could have a Hong Kong style experience all the way down to London Road. And restore Sainsbury's as part of it.

"Pam Alexander, SEEDA's Chief Executive explained:"Brighton and Hove is widely heralded as one of the key urban areas in the South East and our funding demonstrates our long-term commitment to investing in its future prosperity. A thriving and vibrant Brighton and Hove is central to our vision of a region synonymous with world-class business excellence and economic prosperity for all; yet embracing a sustainable and impressive quality of life."

You really couldn't make it up, could you? They go beyond parody. RDAs are like comics who have over-used a gag so much it's become funny again - you think "go on, go on, say world class, say it, you know you want to, you have spoken 30 words and not said world class......" and they do. It's all world-class business excellence. Couldn't be "world-class business shit" could it? Or "shit-class business excellence". No. We get "world class" and "excellence" at the same time, like a twix or whatever they are called thesedays.

Without that 23m investment by SEEDA it was reported a while ago that the whole Brighton centre scheme which is an extremely important development for the city, would have been put on hold.

Regarding the new england site - I don't think the new buildings that have been completed are ugly, I just think they are a little bland, and agree that some higher density mid to high rise buildings would have been better on this important site which was Brighton's largest brownfield site.

Although not all is lost, beetham are said to be coming up with a new plan for the block J site after their original 42 storey tower got rejected, fingers crossed for something truly spectacular, as the area is crying out for a signature building that stands out above the rest.

Let's be honest, there's been little in the way of professionalism from anyone since the whole saga of the KA began.

So true. In the article Brighton Boy posted Coun Oxley hit the nail on the head...

"With hindsight I believe more openness and transparency at the earlier stages of this scheme may have prevented such a high level of suspicion locally"

It has caused a lot of nonsense because all parties allowed it to happen, indeed they didn't seem to be aware that in a vacuum of facts this always happens.
I'm glad this chapter of it is finally over - so it seems for now.

So true. In the article Brighton Boy posted Coun Oxley hit the nail on the head...

"With hindsight I believe more openness and transparency at the earlier stages of this scheme may have prevented such a high level of suspicion locally"

It has caused a lot of nonsense because all parties allowed it to happen, indeed they didn't seem to be aware that in a vacuum of facts this always happens.
I'm glad this chapter of it is finally over - so it seems for now.

The unfortunate thing about the whole episode is that, wherever you stand on the issue of the KA, there obviously is a massive need for new housing in the city, and affordable housing in particular.

What's saddening is that for a lot of people (and not just blue-haired Tory ladies in Hove), whenever that very real problem is now raised, they're just going to associate it with the not-especially-admirable way in which this development has been pushed through ever since 2003.

Brighton has this year been named as the place most in demand for retail space, this is of little suprise and whilst there are plans to expand churchill square shopping centre I think more needs to be done, areas/buildings on Western road and North street, could be redeveloped/refurbished to make way for larger units for example, maybe the imperial arcade could be modernised and expanded.

From the Brighton business site -

Everyone wants to open a shop in Brighton

For the past 20 years Brighton has proved itself to be a winner with retailers but now it is awash with high street names trying to find over 2 million square feet of space that just doesn’t exist.

The property consultancy Focus has just released its 2007 retail report which shows that demand for retail space in the city has virtually doubled over the last year and now stands at a staggering 2.1m sq. ft being sought by 165 different companies.

Little of that demand is for small units - just 6% amounting to some 126,000 sq. ft. Instead, most is from retailers looking for large, modern units. Amongst those operators said to have the city on its target list are big space occupiers like Harvey Nichols and House of Fraser.

Others are being attracted by extremely promising forecasts for the growth of its retail market. A report by GVA Grimley, commissioned by Brighton & Hove City Council, has identified, for example, that retail turnover could grow to £2.6bn by 2016. Little wonder then that so many retailers want a piece of the action.

But the city's perennial challenge is where to accommodate them. There are approaching 1,500 shops in Brighton city centre (not including Hove, London Rd or Kemp Town) but the average size is measured in hundreds of square feet rather than thousands. Brighton's dual problems are the constraints of its city centre which make new, large scale retail development very difficult though not impossible (see earlier story in knowledgebase) and the limitations of its wider topography.

The retail report can be read here - http://www.focusnet.co.uk/public/documents/Retail%20Demand%20July%202007.pdf

Karis were given the go-ahead today, btw.

:banana: Another dancing banana moment I think. Finally we can start to look forward to the construction of the new king alfred.

King Alfred gets green light
By Lawrence Marzouk

The controversial King Alfred development has overcome its final hurdle.

Brighton and Hove City Council planners have agreed to sign off a package of investment linked to the £290 million Hove seafront project.

The section 106 money needed to be agreed before planning permission was given.

Green and Labour councillors voted for the conditions while Conservative members abstained.

Council leader Brian Oxley said: "As this development has already been given landlord's consent and conditional planning approval I'm anxious to see that the city gets the best possible package of benefits out of this valuable site."

A fortnight ago councillors voted to reclaim the power to approve the section 106 pledges from council officers.

Building work is expected to start next year and the Frank Gehry sports centre could be open two years later.

Further details released today in the Argus on the Brighton centre development, it seems more retail space is now planned, doubling the amount proposed before with 40,000 sq m of new retail space which will double the size of the churchill square mall (originally only a 20,000 sq m extension was planned), which is absolutely brilliant news, and should fullfill the majority of retailers requirements.
I can't wait to see some renders! :)

A glass palace for a brighter future


New details about a £400 million replacement for the Brighton Centre have been released.

Planning documents show the building with a mix of meeting rooms and convention halls, a hotel and cinema.

The convention centre would be acoustically designed so sound would be contained and noisy events could take place simultaneously.

It would feature rooms with moving floors and walls to divide larger spaces and transform a banquet hall into an auditorium with seats.

The idea is for the venue to hold mainly business events. Concerts and shows now held at the 30-year-old Brighton Centre would be relocated to the planned Brighton International Arena at Black Rock.

The draft plans detail a four-star hotel, where each room would have a sea view and which would be a "landmark architectural statement" or "iconic tower" to highlight the importance of the convention centre. There would be an integrated shopping mall-style development, which would create 40,000 extra square metres of shops, the size of the current Churchill Square.

It would also include a cinema.

Planners believe the development would transform Brighton and Hove into a leading business destination.

Last week the South East England Development Agency (Seeda) announced it would invest £18 million in the project.

The plans were discussed by Brighton and Hove City Council's new major projects sub-committee yesterday.

City councillor Gary Peltzer Dunn, chairman of the sub-committee, said: "The drafts are like our wish menu of how we are going to transform Brighton into a leading business hub in the country.

"There is still a long way to go in getting this project off the ground but it feels like quite a landmark to have it all set out officially for the first time. It is turning the scheme from a possibility to a probability."

Tony Mernagh, chairman of Brighton and Hove Economic Partnership, said: "A new convention centre has been our number one priority for at least five years and it is nice to get to the point where everyone is starting to come together and put their money where their mouth is.

"I think the drafts seem exactly what we need and we could go from having a 30-year-old dinosaur to having the best convention centre in the world. The difference it could make to the city is immense - the difference between people gradually slipping away to different centres elsewhere to attracting the highest-paying delegates in the world.

"The expansion of Churchill Square is like jam on the cake. There are so many big name shops queuing to get into Brighton and this way there would be space for them."

Brighton was historically a leading destination for business conferences but in recent years it has lost ground to larger and more modern venues across the country, leading to a downturn in business for hotels.

Over the past ten years, the council has pursued a number of failed projects to replace the out-of-date Brighton Centre. It now hopes to have the new centre open by 2012.

Coun Peltzer Dunn said: "The Brighton Centre has stood the city in good stead. It has helped take us from being an old seaside resort to an international destination.

"But it has been overtaken over the past few years and it is essential we do something now to put us back and retain our position in the forefront.

There is no reason why we can't be second to London as a business destination and we need to put the city back in a position it deserves."

In April, The Argus revealed a glass palace designed by the architect behind London's famous Gherkin building would replace the Brighton Centre.

Make Architects has been handed the job of transforming the ageing conference centre, Churchill Square and the Kingswest building.

Hi BB I come in peace, but check this out:

UK Shopping Venue Rankings 2006 by Javelin Group.

London West End 1687

1) Glasgow 536
2) Birmingham 454
3) Edinburgh 390
4) Manchester 384
5) Norwich 382
6) Leeds 348
7) Nottingham 340
8) Brighton 334
9) Southampton 299
10) Hull 298 (in with a bullet and still rising)
11) Oxford Street 297
12) Liverpool 287
13) Reading 270
14) Leicester 269
15) Newcastle upon Tyne 267
16) Kingston upon Thames 264
17) Aberdeen 256
18) Cardiff 254
19) Guildford 251
20) Cheltenham 244

Thats before St Stephen's (£200M opening Sept 07) and Quay West (£300M opening 2011). I reckon Hull might even oust Southampton, Brighton and Nottingham over the next 5 years.

Hi BB I come in peace, but check this out:
Thats before St Stephen's (£200M opening Sept 07) and Quay West (£300M opening 2011). I reckon Hull might even oust Southampton, Brighton and Nottingham over the next 5 years.


Hi Chris I wouldn't take those figures too seriously, (hull better than oxford street?) in other more respected sources like Experian for example, Hull ranks around 35th and Brighton 18th so I wouldn't look too much into this.
Guildford, Newcastle, Reading, Leicester, Liverpool, Cardiff (which are below Hull in this list) are far better shopping destinations than Hull, I don't think there can be any argument about that and you'd have to be seriously deluded to think otherwise.
Hull doesn't have any of the top end stores which is what is required for a truly successful retail centre along with a good variety of independent shops, and of course the main high street stores.
I guess this is down to Hull's low wage economy and high level of unemployment, which understandably isn't going to attract the top names, that is why there are many cheaper stores in Hull, to cater for the market there.
I think Hull will probably make it into the top 25 soon but I doubt would ever catch up with places that have larger catchments like Southampton, Brighton, Nottingham etc
Especially seeing as there are major retail developments happening/planned in almost all the main retail centres at the moment, just today for example a massive retail expansion in Brighton is planned as part of the Brighton centre.

I think this is the latest experian retail ranking -

1 West End, Greater London

2 Glasgow

3 Birmingham

4 Leeds

5 Nottingham

6 Manchester

7 Southampton

8 Cardiff

9 Norwich

10 Bluewater, South East

11 Chester

12 Reading

13 Liverpool

14 Newcastle upon Tyne

15 Leicester

16 Edinburgh

17 Kingston upon Thames

18 Brighton

19 Merry Hill, West Midlands

20 Meadowhall, South Yorkshire

Just out of interest. In those tables, are Brighton and Hove's figures combined?

Do these plans include the Kingswest development, or is that a whole seperate thing?

Just out of interest. In those tables, are Brighton and Hove's figures combined?

No it is just for Brighton city centre not Hove.

Do these plans include the Kingswest development, or is that a whole seperate thing?

Yes they do the kingswest is going to be demolished along with the actual Brighton centre to make way for the Brighton centre scheme. :)

Cheers BB. Make sure you always try to add pro skyscraper comments on the Argus website when a related storey materialises. Today there was an article on housing, and I said the only way is to build up. We have a bit of a nightmare with the new tory dominated council.

Cheers BB. Make sure you always try to add pro skyscraper comments on the Argus website when a related storey materialises. Today there was an article on housing, and I said the only way is to build up. We have a bit of a nightmare with the new tory dominated council.

I think the torys were only really against the king alfred development, they have supported the i360 tower, the marina tower, and look like they shall be behind a tower proposal as part of the Brighton centre, so I don't think we need worry too much about the tories, they seem to be all for major regeneration and development.

No it is just for Brighton city centre not Hove.


I thought Brighton wasn't a 'city' without Hove. Sort of like a little seaside version of Budapest?

I thought Brighton wasn't a 'city' without Hove. Sort of like a little seaside version of Budapest?

What's that got to do with retail though Legs?

They are comparing city centre retail for each city, our main retail centre is in Brighton city centre, not Hove, although central Hove is joined on to central Brighton so it does kinda feel like one big central area for the city of Brighton & Hove, as you can see here - http://62.73.191.157/towncent/2002/South_East/146.htm

Hove only has a small selection of high street shops and isn't taken into account when judging the city's retail offer.

Hove is also where I live :P

..

[QUOTE=Brighton boy;14216021]Further details released today in the Argus on the Brighton centre development, it seems more retail space is now planned, doubling the amount proposed before with 40,000 sq m of new retail space which will double the size of the churchill square mall (originally only a 20,000 sq m extension was planned), which is absolutely brilliant news, and should fullfill the majority of retailers requirements.
I can't wait to see some renders! :)


so when will visuals be produced? I cannot wait to see this development .I really can see brighton becoming a place for modern extraordinary buildings working with the existing buildings that make brighton what it is. As long as the tories don't have anything to do with it ofcourse, who consistently live another era. I just wish the public spaces would be worked up to the quality of new road as this, to me, is what lets down brighton. It makes it look tatty and unclean especially as you approach brighton by car.

[QUOTE=Brighton boy;14216021]Further details released today in the Argus on the Brighton centre development, it seems more retail space is now planned, doubling the amount proposed before with 40,000 sq m of new retail space which will double the size of the churchill square mall (originally only a 20,000 sq m extension was planned), which is absolutely brilliant news, and should fullfill the majority of retailers requirements.
I can't wait to see some renders! :)[quote]


so when will the visuals be produced? I cannot wait to see this development .I really can see brighton becoming a place for modern extraordinary buildings working with the existing buildings that make brighton what it is. As long as the tories don't have anything to do with it ofcourse, who consistently live another era.It could be So much better.

I just wish the public spaces in Brighton would be worked up to the quality of new road as this, to me, is what lets down brighton. It makes it look tatty and unclean especially as you approach brighton by car.