Councillors to consider revised Royal Pavilion Garden plan

A revised planning application for the Royal Pavilion Garden has been submitted to Brighton & Hove City Council and will be considered at a meeting on 7 August.

The plans had been due to be considered in May, but the application was deferred so that further detailed designs around access could be prepared.

Gates removed

The amended plans include the removal of the previously proposed gates, providing 24-hour access to the garden for residents and visitors. 

Entrances will be widened with new bollards and piers.

Regency architecture

The proposal for the Royal Pavilion Garden aims to secure the long-term sustainability of the city centre garden, providing a setting for residents and visitors to enjoy, but also enhancing the Regency architecture of the Royal Pavilion, Corn Exchange and Dome.

The plans include:

• Restoration of the Regency planting and protection and promotion of local biodiversity
• New visitor and community facilities, more accessible information and increased community engagement opportunities
• Repairing, conserving and enhancing historic elements, including the garden entrances and pathways
• Reinstating the historic boundary based on the original 19th century railing designs.

Cultural destination

The project is part of a wider plan developed by the council to enhance the Royal Pavilion Estate as a key cultural destination. 

Phase One of this plan, the refurbishment of the Grade I listed Corn Exchange and Grade II listed Studio Theatre was completed in 2023. The garden restoration is Phase Two of these plans.

The council and Brighton & Hove Museums have already secured £4.3 million from the National Lottery Heritage Fund for this work.