City Park, Brighton & Hove, East Sussex
The challenge
The property had been vacant for several years, and the subject of three refused planning applications and one refused appeal. The demolition of the existing building would include major asbestos remediation.
The solution
Following the acquisition Cuckfield Group entered into a period of negotiation with Brighton & Hove City Council, to fully understand their aspirations for the site. Cuckfield Group then designed a commercially viable scheme which worked both for the Council and local residents.
Cuckfield Group obtained detailed planning consent for a mixed-use scheme, comprising Grade A office accommodation in three new buildings; private residential apartments; affordable accommodation and a nursery
Incorporated in the proposals were the re-use of surface water, a green travel plan, off-site highways works, creative landscaping plus other off-site contributions to benefit the local community.
Following extensive collaboration with specialist contractors, consultants and the Health and Safety Executive, the site was successfully remediated.
The added value
The granting of the scheme led to the biggest ever speculative office development for the city, and the successful re-development of a landmark site.
The uplift in value was significant after all costs.