The Hove Park Tennis Alliance is eagerly anticipating the upcoming review of their proposal for a pavilion near the tennis courts in Hove Park by council members, with hopes for a favourable outcome.
Having submitted a revised application for a timber building in close proximity to the tennis courts and table tennis tables, the alliance has taken diligent measures to address concerns raised during the initial submission, which was rejected by the Brighton and Hove City Council’s Planning Committee. This included collaboration with the Friends of Hove Park, local ward councillors, and the council’s parks and gardens team, Cityparks, to identify an alternative location for the pavilion.
The new application has garnered substantial support, with over 80 comments in favour lodged with the council, alongside nearly 50 objections and a petition signed by 206 individuals expressing dissent. Operating as a volunteer-run, not-for-profit community sports club under a 25-year lease from the council, the tennis alliance aims to establish a space that includes seating, toilet facilities, storage, and a refreshment area.
In the planning application, the alliance emphasized the design of the timber pavilion, highlighting its compatibility with the surrounding environment and its contribution to the improvement of the site’s biodiversity through the integration of a bio-solar roof and the planting of small trees and wildflower grasses. The proposed pavilion, if approved, would be shared by the tennis club, comprising 400 adult members and 100 juniors, and the Russell Martin Foundation, which manages the football pitches at the park.
While the project has found favour with many, concerns have been raised by several objectors regarding the size of the building and its impact on the park’s landscape. Some have expressed reservations about potential obstruction of views and restriction of space for children to play safely.
The final decision regarding the proposed pavilion is set to be reached at the upcoming meeting of the Planning Committee on Wednesday, 6 December at Hove Town Hall. The session will be available for live viewing on the council’s website.
The Hove Park Tennis Alliance is eagerly awaiting the impending verdict with optimism, hoping for a positive outcome that will enhance the park’s sporting amenities while addressing the concerns of all involved parties.