£65m new leisure centre planned for Hove seafront

An artist's impression of how the new leisure centre on Hove seafront will look

Plans have been revealed for a new multi-million pound sports and leisure facility on Hove seafront.

The venue, which is set to include a "wide mix of facilities" such as swimming pools, a gym and a café, will replace the ageing King Alfred Leisure Centre, which first opened in 1939.

Back in July 2024 Brighton & Hove City Council announced plans to demolish the original building to make way for a modern upgrade.

Councillor Alan Robins, cabinet member for sports, recreation & libraries, said: "I really believe we can deliver a spectacular new leisure centre that the whole city can be proud of."

The council said the proposals were set to transform the current site into "a modern, accessible and sustainable leisure destination for all".

Up to £65m in funding has been earmarked for the project as part of an "ongoing commitment to invest in sports and leisure facilities across the city".

The proposals will then be discussed in various meetings later this month and, if agreed, residents will be invited to view designs for the project and share feedback in the autumn.

Subject to cabinet members' approval, a planning application could be submitted by the end of the year, although work is unlikely to begin before early 2026.

The new facility is not expected to launch before spring 2028. Until then, the existing King Alfred Leisure Centre will be kept open for as long as possible.

The existing King Alfred Leisure Centre opened in 1939

"I'm delighted that we're pushing forward with the next stage of this exciting project," said Mr Robins.

"Residents were clear they wanted the leisure centre to stay on the seafront and we're moving forward with that plan at pace."

Councillor Joy Robinson added: "As a regular user of the current King Alfred centre I know how essential it is to build a new facility that meets users' needs.

"This is such an important project and I can't wait to see the eventual finished product."