Britannia Hotels Group has submitted plans for the first phase of the long-term restoration and regeneration of Brighton’s iconic Royal Albion Hotel.
HNW Architects has developed a phased regeneration strategy to secure the long-term future of the site following the devastating fire of July 2023.
The proposals focus on the careful restoration and refurbishment of the surviving Grade II* listed eastern parcel of the hotel, bringing 101 guest rooms back into use whilst safeguarding the building’s architectural and historic significance. A key feature of the proposals is the restoration of the terrace and the reinstatement of its traditional balustrade.
Designed by Amon Henry Wilds and completed in 1826, the Royal Albion Hotel occupies a prime position at the southern end of Old Steine.
Paul Streets, director of Britannia Hotels Group, said: “The Royal Albion Hotel occupies a unique place in Brighton’s history and on its seafront. Since the fire in 2023, our focus has been on developing a viable strategy that secures the future of the site. The submission of these proposals marks an important milestone in our ongoing efforts to bring this landmark historical building back into active use again.”
Lee Davies, director at HNW Architects and RIBA conservation architect, added: “The Royal Albion is one of Britain’s most recognisable historic buildings and occupies a prominent position within the city’s seafront townscape. The challenge has been to carefully balance the conservation of a highly significant listed building with the practical requirements of a modern hotel. These applications represent an important step in securing the long-term future of the Royal Albion and restoring a landmark building that has played a significant role in Brighton’s history for almost 200 years.”
The project team also includes Archaeology South East, Lewis & Co Planning and Bloomsbury Surveyors.
