Brighton Seafront Development: Ensuring Community Voices Matter

Brighton Seafront Development: Step Towards Community Engagement

Derek Wright, known for his passionate advocacy for Brighton’s seafront, has voiced significant concerns regarding the newly proposed Seafront Development Board established by Brighton and Hove City Council. His apprehensions stem primarily from the belief that the board's recruitment process is excessively selective, potentially excluding valuable community input.

Raising the Bar: The Recruitment Criteria Under Scrutiny

The new board, tasked with revitalising Brighton's iconic seafront, is chaired by Lord Steve Bassam, a seasoned figure in seaside town revitalisation. However, Wright criticises the stringent requirements outlined for board candidates, suggesting that they favour professionals with business acumen or urban planning expertise. In a community discussion he initiated on Facebook, Wright raised a pivotal point: the invitation to participate isn’t explicitly welcoming to everyday residents, children, and families who truly experience the seafront's offerings.

Community Voices: Missing from Vital Discussions

Wright maintains that the current structure could alienate the very community that relies on the seafront and its amenities. He articulated that while the council claims to encourage applications from various backgrounds, the requirements like previous experience in professional roles create an almost exclusive environment that might not consider the insight of residents. “Residents possess invaluable lived experiences that contribute to deeper understanding of the needs along the seafront,” he asserts.

Future Options: Encouraging Broader Participation

Lord Bassam responded to these concerns by affirming that any and all expressions of interest from local residents will be welcomed. He emphasized the necessity of inclusivity and represented commitment to establishing a board that truly reflects the community’s diversity. Regular engagement events are planned, which will provide platforms for community voices to be heard in shaping future initiatives.

A Calls for Action: Get Involved in Your Local Community

As the development progresses, it is crucial for residents to seize the opportunity to contribute their thoughts and experiences. Wright’s grassroots approach underscores the importance of community engagement in decision-making processes. Whether through social media, direct emails to council members, or participation in events, the pathway to involvement is open; it's time for the local community to advocate for their rightful place in the planning of Brighton’s future.