Brighton Hippodrome developer to reveal vision for theatre next month

Developer HIPP Investments was set to unveil its plan for the historic theatre this month, but said more work needs to be done to get the project right.

The plans for the site, which has stood empty since 2007, include the restoration and refurbishment of the theatre, and include a 74-room hotel with a spa as well as 26 apartments.

Aized Sheikh, HIPP Investments CEO, said: “We feel privileged and are excited at the thought of bringing the much-loved Hippodrome Brighton back into use for the people of Brighton and Hove and to ensure its long-term viability for generations to come. We are also very aware that both Middle Street and Ship Street are in need of regeneration and given their importance this proposed development will breathe a new lease of life this this part of the town.

“This project is complex and it needs much thought and deliberation.

“For this reason, we have commissioned a number of specialist firms to deliver a number of reports and strategies for the business case, refurbishment and restoration of the theatre. We anticipate this work being completed by mid-March.

“Given the work involved and timescales, we plan to hold public consultation events later than anticipated, now likely to be late to end March.”

“We very much look forward to sharing our vison for the Hippodrome Brighton with the community in due course we are well aware of its future importance as an iconic cultural mainstay for the city."

Developer HIPP Investments took on the historic site a year ago after plans to convert it into a cinema fell through.

The owners said they are in discussion with Brighton Dome and Brighton Festival regarding the renovation, refurbishment and future management of the theatre and have appointed ARUP, a multinational engineering and design company with extensive experience in the arts and culture sector, to conduct a viability study of the theatre and its future potential.