Brighton Marina includes many unsatisfactory areas, which we have the opportunity to improve:
- there are pathways leading into, as well as within the marina, which feel unsafe to pedestrians and cyclists;
- car traffic dominates the landscape from the moment you arrive;
- there are huge areas of land dedicated solely to car parking;
- existing retail areas could be better connected.
Inside the marina
When you arrive at the marina, the first thing you will notice is that cars get precedence and that it is very hard to move about on foot, cycle or even bus.
We believe that the road systems inside the marina must be addressed strategically, so that it becomes a safe and enjoyable location for pedestrians and cyclists.
Transport Interchange
A key feature of the regeneration will be a new centrally located transport interchange permitting easy access to trains, buses and taxis.
People make public spaces
The successful elements of the marina exist predominately along The Boardwalk today unfortunately, they do not exist or connect with the western area.
This situation can be corrected if we choose the right solution to the public realm areas that connect our sites.
Getting to the Marina
At present, getting to the marina is only easy by car. We are looking at ways to improve the pathways and stairways into the marina, so that it is easier and more enjoyable to arrive on foot and bicycle.
We are also looking at methods to tie in with local transport initiatives to make it easier for people to choose the bus to come here.
We are trying to find ways to reduce traffic outside the marina, including:
- improvements to pedestrian and cycle links;
- reduced parking provision (to discourage unnecessary use of private vehicles to the area);
- upgrading the existing public transport services and promoting new innovative services;
- modifications to key junctions directly affected by the development.
Visual impact
Verifiable views (the photo montages of our proposals set in their existing contexts) will show the scheme from various important viewpoints.
Many of these views have been used to assess Brunswick Development's scheme and have been carefully chosen by our townscape consultant, Brighton and Hove City Council Planning Offices and English Heritage.
We are aware of how important the issue of building height is.
The masterplan for enhancement indicates suitable areas for tall buildings, including the Estates Management office, Merchants Quay, etc. At what points across the western area do you think tall buildings would best sit?
Ecological Aspirations
- Draw wildlife into the site through the use of chalk and shingle roofs, recreating cliff and beach habitats.
Hydrological Aspirations
- Collect and store rainwater run-off for reuse as irrigation.
- Develop a water body at the foot of the cliff for recycling water from the buildings.
- Use locally adapted plants.
Microclimate Aspirations
- Careful siting of buildings to provide shelter from cold southwesterly winds and aid dispersal of airborne pollutants.
- Maximise solar access to public spaces, and consider use of glazing to prolong enjoyment of the outdoors.
- Use salt and wind-tolerant trees to provide additional wind shelter and dappled shade in summer.
- Develop a low-energy landscape.
Which area of Brighton Marina are we looking at?
Since publishing this map a fourth area of development, completely separate from our proposals, has come forward for an office scheme over the Eastern Breakwater. Details of this can be found on Brighton & Hove City Council's website
We are committed to ensuring that we link up effectively with any other schemes in the area that proceed, so that our regeneration is not carried out in isolation.
