Expression of Interest: Kings Road Paddling Pool
We're seeking proposals from experienced operators, investors and leisure providers to fund, design, deliver, maintain and operate a new public paddling pool and playground on Brighton seafront.
About the opportunity
A seafront fit for the future.
We wish to explore innovative partnership opportunities that deliver a high-quality, family play facility which is free of charge for public use, whilst enabling a commercial leisure operation on an adjacent site to support long-term investment and sustainability.
We're seeking a development partner for a prime seafront site to deliver:
- a free-to-use children's playground
- a publicly accessible, free-to-use paddling pool
- associated landscaping, seating, toilets and changing area
- an adjacent commercial leisure site and unit for development and operation by the successful partner.
You can download an earlier feasibility study into potential designs, facilities and costs for reference.
We're inviting proposals from organisations capable of delivering a sustainable scheme that enhances the visitor experience, increases footfall and contributes positively to the seafront economy.
The successful operator would be responsible for:
- funding the design and construction of the paddling pool and playground – budget estimate £1.6m to £2.2m
- securing all necessary approvals and consents (subject to council requirements)
- ongoing operation, maintenance, repair and renewal of the paddling pool and playground
- covering all associated running costs throughout the term of any agreement
In return, we're prepared to consider granting a 20 year lease over an adjacent site to enable the development and operation of a commercial leisure offer, subject to agreement of terms.
The Site
The proposed redevelopment site includes:
- existing playground and paddling pool area (to be modernised)
- 1,000m² adjacent land to the west suitable for commercial development
- a prominent and highly visible seafront position
- existing toilet facilities (to be modernised)
- brick built unit available for commercial or ancillary use
Commercial offer
The council is interested in proposals which deliver a commercial leisure offer on the adjacent land comprises 1,000m²
Examples may include (but are not limited to):
- family entertainment facilities
- adventure leisure attractions
- hospitality and food and beverage offers
- health and wellbeing
- activity-based recreation
- visitor attractions
- seasonal leisure activities – summer and winter
Innovative proposals are encouraged.
Expectations and information we request
Interested parties should submit a proposal addressing the following areas:
Expectations
We'd like to see proposals which:
- deliver a high-quality, free to use playground
- deliver a high-quality, free to use paddling pool
- have innovative ideas for a flagship site where the paddling pool space could be converted for a different commercial use during the winter
- have proposals for year-round commercial offers on the adjacent site
- enhance the attractiveness of the seafront
Organisational information
We will need:
- your organisation name and contact details
- your relevant experience and track record
- examples of comparable projects delivered and operated
Vision and concept
We expect to see in any proposal:
- the proposed commercial leisure offer
- site layout concepts
- design approach and visitor experience
- supporting visuals, plans or illustrations (where available)
Illustrative vision
The images below are artistic impressions provided by The Splash. They are two different designs and intended purely to demonstrate the scale and ambition of the Council's aspirations for the site. They do not represent an approved design and should not be interpreted as a final scheme – see the feasibility study for more images and costs.
Investment/business model
We'd want to see:
- the total capital investment proposed
- how the public facilities would be funded and maintained
- long-term operational arrangements
- annual operating costs
Commercial terms
We want to know your:
- rental offer to the council (if applicable)
- revenue share proposals (if applicable)
How to submit a proposal
Submission deadline
Submit your proposal by 27 September 2026 by sending an email to seafront.lettings@brighton-hove.gov.uk
This exercise is being conducted to test market interest and explore potential delivery models. The council reserves the right not to proceed with any subsequent disposal, lease, concession or partnership opportunity arising from this market engagement exercise.
Submission of a proposal does not create any contractual relationship or guarantee progression to a future letting process.