Leisure centre redevelopment at King Alfred Leisure Centre (part) And Public Car Park And Lawn West Of Hove Street Kingsway, Hove

What was proposed

The application concerned redevelopment involving the King Alfred Leisure Centre, a public car park and lawn west of Hove Street South.

“BH2026/00490 - King Alfred Leisure Centre (part), Public Car Park and Lawn, West of Hove Street South, Kingsway, Hove…”

Minutes

Officers’ position

Councillors discussed and supported the officer recommendation, while officers described limited heritage harm and public benefits to weigh against it.

“The case officer stated that the location was an allocated site for major development in the city, and it was noted that any building of scale would have an impact when compared to the open site. It was considered that there would be harm to the heritage assets, however, the harm was limited and the planning consideration is to look at the development plan policies as a whole and weigh up public benefits.”

“Councillor Nann supported the officer recommendation, noted the objector’s preference for a refurbishment; however, that was not being considered at this committee meeting.”

Minutes

Who spoke

Objecting residents, a legal representative, a campaign representative, the applicant’s agent, council officers and a councillor addressed the committee.

Members’ debate

Members weighed the new facilities, sustainability, accessibility and public benefits against heritage harm, design, parking, access and the loss of existing amenities.

“Councillor Robinson stated they were conflicted about the application at the start of the meeting. The development is not perfect, with limited harm to heritage. The councillor considered that once the temporary car park had been removed the situation will improve. There is a balance between winning and losing. The development complies with policy, and the public benefit is good. The councillor supported the application.”

“Councillor Guilmant stated they understood objector’s views; however, the existing King Alfred has come to the end of its life and refurbishment, which would lead to two years of use, is not possible. The councillor considered the balance was for the public benefit and sustainable. The councillor stated they were weighing history against what is best for the next generation. The councillor supported the application.”

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The vote

The committee voted by eight votes to one to grant planning permission.

“A vote was held, and by 8 to 1 against the committee agreed to grant planning permission.”

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The decision

The committee was minded to grant permission, subject to the Secretary of State not calling in the application and to conditions and informatives.

“RESOLVED: That the Committee has taken into consideration and agrees with the reasons for the recommendation set out in the report and resolves to be MINDED TO GRANT planning permission subject to the Secretary of State deciding not to call in the application for determination and subject to the Conditions and Informatives in the report.”

Minutes