Planning permission and listed building consent has been granted to start the restoration of the Grade II* listed Madeira Terrace.
The restoration of the terrace, which has been part of Brighton’s seafront since the 1890s, will be undertaken in phases. Phase 1 consists of the 40 arches between the Royal Crescent Steps in the west and Shelter Hall – the Concorde 2 venue – in the east.
The restoration work will address several areas:
- Repairing and protecting the cast iron
- Redesigning the mid-deck walkway
- Restoring decorative elements
- Installing new seating, lighting, and space for pop-ups on the deck and at ground level, to accommodate events such as food festivals or live music
- Improving public spaces on Madeira Drive
- Safeguarding and retaining the historic Japanese green spindle plants to re-establish the Green Wall at the back of the terrace
A brand-new lift will be installed at the Royal Crescent Steps, allowing access 24 hours a day to Madeira Drive and the deck from Marine Parade.
Along with the restoration of the eastern side of the Royal Crescent steps, a new staircase will also be created to the west of the Madeira Shelter Hall Lift.
Contractors will begin cleaning up the site this year and undertake preparation for restoration work starting on site in autumn 2023. Brighton & Hove City Council stated that phases of the restoration will be delivered as funding becomes available.
Council Leader Phélim Mac Cafferty said: “The revitalisation of Madeira Terrace is one of the most significant projects on which the council has embarked for a long time.
“Now the next chapter opens for the Terrace. Rebuilding this historic part of the seafront and restoring the country’s longest cast iron structure will return this Victorian landmark to the city, offering facilities fit for the 21st century, welcoming all communities.
“The successful regeneration of Madeira Terrace will further re-enliven the eastern end of the seafront, with featured attractions and staged events appealing to residents and visitors alike. The refurbished Terrace will further strengthen our offer to visitors and grow the local economy, in a city where tourism accounts for 21,000 jobs.
“We are determined to place Madeira Terrace at the heart of a rejuvenated city, protecting this unique, historic asset for generations to come while ensuring we enhance and care for our precious environment.”
Bill Puddicombe, chair of the Restoration Advisory Panel, added: “The Advisory Panel are delighted that the planning application for the first stage of the renovation has been approved.
“An important milestone in the project has been reached. We look forward to seeing further progress very soon.”
