New life for Aquarium Terraces?

Simon Burgess has commented on architect David Kohn's plans for a new beachfront restaurant at the Aquarium Terraces on Brighton seafront. The architect described his ideas and enthusiasm for creating a new restaurant that will hopefully respect its historic setting much better than the building erected in the 1990's which and has stood vacant since then.

Simon commented; "There are sadly a number of vacant buildings that were part of the Aquarium Terraces development that took far too little account of the surroundings and were little better than industrial units in feel. I am really pleased that his plans for the unit (next to Burger King) involve opening up more promenade by removing the modern glass pavilion which is wedged in so tight as to be of no use. We will then be able to see the original stone pavilion that is stuck behind it far better, creating open space as was originally intended. The plans also includes extending the current glass frontage to nearer the roof line and putting in windows down the eastern side. The current building is very dark and the amount of extra natural light will be a great improvement.

I have some reservations in that an admittedly not great, and too long, disabled ramp will be removed and will be replaced by a wheelchair lift. As someone who has worked with people who use wheelchairs over many years I have rarely come across outdoor wheelchair lifts that are easy to use, and suitably weatherproof to be very reliable which is essential if we are to ensure everyone gets the access they deserve. The other issue that is not being addressed at all is the northern side next to the pavement which has very poorly designed roof lines that have made the issue of keeping drunk revellers off them a so far unresolved problem. It is a great pity that the other vacant buildings are not being redesigned at the same time but I am very encouraged that the architect says he has been actively talking to the King's Cliffe Society, of which I am a member, about his plans. The Society knows and understands the architecture and heritage of the area better than almost anyone - I really hope they are listened to."

In the picture taken by Simon Burgess, the unit is the one next to Burger King, the modern glass pavilion next to it is to go with the original stone pavilion behind becoming more visible from the south and more promenade becoming usable by the general public. The changes if approved will also open up another daytime route through the site for pedestrians heading down to the beach).