Plans for offices next to 'iconic' pub approved

Plans to build a four-storey office block next to an "iconic and important" pub in Brighton, East Sussex, have been approved on appeal.

The appellant was the owner of the former Thrifty Car Hire site, at 47 Trafalgar Street, next door to the Prince Albert pub.

She appealed against a unanimous decision by Brighton & Hove City Council's Planning Committee to refuse her application in November 2023.

Planning inspector David Smith received more than 500 objections to the appeal, raising concerns about the effect on the Grade II listed pub, reports the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

More than 1,200 people objected to the original application and 22,000 signed a petition to protect the pub.

It has become well-known as a grassroots music venue with an eye-catching mural of musical legends on one wall, which also features a facsimile of the Banksy work Kissing Coppers.

Mr Smith said he considered whether the proposed building would affect the Prince Albert's operation as a music venue.

He said noise from the venue would have less effect on a commercial business, and the council had put forward a condition that the offices should close at 20:00 GMT when live music starts at the pub.

He said: "There is evidence that other music venues have had to close due to noise complaints and so this is a valid concern.

"The Prince Albert is regarded by many as iconic and an important social hub.

"In this case, a combination of the use of the proposed building and the soundproofing measures that could be required combine to reduce the likelihood of this occurring."

Mr Smith also considered the effect on the character and appearance of the proposed building's design on the North Laine Conservation Area.

The existing building was described as "an unattractive warehouse last used for car rentals" which "detracts" from the area's character and "weakens" the quality of the street scene.

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