Planning permission has been granted for a new Sand Sports Centre at Hove Beach Park, following a decision by councillors at the Planning Committee meeting on Wednesday, 5 March.

The proposal, submitted by Yellowave Brighton, includes the development of three sand courts for beach volleyball, beach tennis and footvolley, as well as a versatile multi-use area designed for 5-a-side beach soccer, life-saving training, and fitness activities.

In addition to the courts and multi-use space, the new centre will feature a sports reception area, a small café, an accessible toilet with baby-changing facilities, and a free kids’ sandpit. A Beach House room will also be available for hire, providing an indoor space for a variety of community activities such as school beach education days, yoga sessions, First Aid training, and parent and toddler groups.

The planning application also includes the change of use of existing public toilets, the demolition of a detached accessible WC, and the construction of a single-storey detached community facility with associated perimeter fencing and a newly landscaped surface around the water fountain. New public toilets will be opened nearby as part of the Hove Beach Park development at the new Outdoor Sports Hub.

Councillor Julie Cattell, the lead member for major projects, spoke at the Planning Committee, highlighting the significance of the project. “This proposal is the last piece of the jigsaw puzzle that will complete Hove Beach Park – the first new park in the city for more than 100 years,” she said.

The committee considered feedback from 91 objectors and 111 supporters. Councillor Cattell noted that many comments highlighted the public health benefits of the proposed sporting facilities.

Katie Mintram, director of Yellowave, expressed her excitement about the project, saying: “We are thrilled to be able to bring beach sports to Hove. We will be working with a whole host of local sports clubs, schools, and colleges to offer more beach volleyball, beach tennis, and beach soccer in the city, to complement the sports on offer at our Madeira Drive site.”

The new Sand Sports Centre is expected to enhance Hove Beach Park and offer local residents and visitors a range of outdoor sports and community activities.

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