Approval Granted for New Offices Next to Iconic Brighton Pub and Music Venue
Brighton officials have approved plans for a four-storey office block next to the Prince Albert pub, despite over 1,200 objections.
Brighton, Prince Albert, Office Block, Planning Approval, Music Venue
Brighton: Plans for a new four-storey office block next to the Prince Albert pub got the green light. This decision came after an appeal by Patricia Campings, who owns the nearby former Thrifty Car Hire site.
She appealed against a previous decision by the Brighton and Hove City Council. They had refused her application back in November 2023. The planning inspector, David Smith, received over 500 objections regarding the appeal.
Many people were worried about how the new building would impact the grade II listed pub. In fact, more than 1,200 people objected to the original application, and a whopping 22,000 signed a petition to protect the pub.
The Prince Albert is famous as a grassroots music venue. It features a mural of musical legends and a replica of Banksy’s Kissing Coppers. Mr. Smith looked into whether the new building would affect the pub’s music events.
He noted that noise from the venue would likely have less impact on a business. The council suggested that the offices should close by 8 PM when live music starts at the pub.
Mr. Smith acknowledged concerns about noise complaints affecting music venues. He recognized the Prince Albert as an iconic social hub. However, he believed soundproofing measures could help reduce potential issues.
As part of the planning permission, the new building will be limited to business use, with restricted hours and sound insulation to protect the Prince Albert.
Mr. Smith also considered how the new building would fit into the North Laine Conservation Area. The existing structure was described as an unattractive warehouse that detracts from the area’s character.
In April 2024, Beak Brewery from Lewes received permission to operate a taproom at the site.