Brighton Dome Set For Major Repairs After Plans Approved

Extensive repair works to the Grade I listed Brighton Dome have been given the go-ahead by councillors.

The 18th-century landmark will undergo a programme of preservation using traditional materials to protect its historic features.

At a meeting of Brighton and Hove City Council’s Planning Committee on Wednesday (3 September), members heard that the works will include repainting gutters, low-pressure jet washing of stonework, and repairs to the roof’s stone merlons – the upright sections of its crenelated design.

Stainless steel pins and resin injections will be used where needed to secure the structure.

The proposals, submitted by Brighton Dome and Brighton Festival, were backed by the council’s heritage department, which welcomed the use of linseed putty around windows and lime-wash treatments following tests on sample sections.

Councillors from across the chamber praised the plans. Cllr Carol Theobald (Conservative) said:

“I think it’s a really good thing to do these external repairs to a Grade I historic building.

"I wish some of our other buildings in the city could probably have this sort of refurbishment. I’m sure they’ll do a brilliant job.”

Cllr Julie Cattell (Labour) added:

“I’m sure we’ll be using specialist contractors as we are on Madeira Terraces.

"I’m really glad this is happening. You learn something every day – today I’ve learned what a merlon is!”

Committee chair Cllr Tobias Sheard (Labour) said restoring a building of this age requires some materials to be replaced, joking:

“Apparently, Mario and Luigi need to come in as well – just in case the plumbing needs doing.”

The work will begin once contractors are appointed, with the aim of preserving one of Brighton’s most iconic cultural venues for future generations.