The plan
The project will rejuvenate run-down spaces and create improved outdoor leisure facilities along the stretch from Hove Lagoon to the King Alfred Leisure Centre.
Responses to a public consultation in 2021 were extremely positive with 86% of respondents supporting the scheme. Feedback from an online survey and public engagement events have also helped shape the plans and determine what facilities and sports have been included.
As well as landscaping the area and improving existing sports provision for bowls, tennis and croquet there are plans for a new pump track, skate park and roller area as well as paddle tennis and sand sports.
Sand sports
Kasia Chmielewska, director at Beach Tennis UK, who runs sessions in central Brighton says: “Sand sports are becoming increasingly popular so it’s fantastic to see them included in the plans. They have health benefits for people of all ages, whether it’s for fitness, spending quality time with friends and family or for competitive play.”
“As a playing surface, sand is low impact, softer and kinder to joints and places less stress on ankles, knees, hips and back allowing for a softer landing and reducing the chances of injuries.” I’ve been running regular sessions for 12 years and have players of all abilities and ages from 10 to 75 years old taking part.”
Roller skating
Peggy Pollock, manager @ Rollagirls, says: “Skating is more than a hobby for a lot of people, it’s a lifestyle and a way into community, support and most importantly, joy. We all need a little more of this!
“Skating has boomed since lockdown. When gyms were closed, people found they could still enjoy skating while being socially distanced.
“The city desperately needs a dedicated area for skaters to enjoy and learn. As it stands right now, there is no dedicated outdoor space for skaters to practice their sport safely.
“Whether you’re 4 or 74, skating offers so much more than just exercise, and fun. Skating welcomes you into an entire family”.
New facilities for all age groups
Councillor Martin Osborne adds: “Development of this scheme to date has been a joint effort involving community groups and local people.
“The mix of new outdoor facilities proposed reflects what most residents have told us they want to see.
“This is a golden opportunity to provide people of all ages with a range of sport and leisure opportunities as well as creating a new must visit destination for Brighton & Hove.”
Give your feedback before 28 October 2022
The Planning consultation period will run for 3 weeks from when the application is registered giving residents and businesses a further opportunity to give feedback on the plans. The application will be considered by the Planning Committee at the end of the year and if the application is approved, work on site will begin in Spring 2023.
