Brighton Pride Licensing Bid Faces Police Opposition

Pub bosses seeking extended opening hours for Brighton Pride have clashed with Sussex Police over claims that late-night alcohol off-sales contribute to crime and anti-social behaviour.

The Camelford Arms has applied to stay open until 3am on the Friday of Pride weekend, 4am on the Saturday and 1am on the Sunday – hours similar to those granted in previous years.

However, Sussex Police has objected to the venue's request to offer off-sales through a "window bar", arguing that late-night takeaway alcohol could contribute to crime and incidents on Brighton beach.

Representing the force, barrister Edward Elton told a Brighton and Hove City Council licensing panel that police had concerns about an increase in people getting into difficulty on the beach and in the sea.

He said crime across the wider Pride area fell from 192 incidents in 2024 to 131 in 2025, when very few venues with extended hours offered off-sales.

Camelford Arms director Alistair Mackinnon-Musson challenged the police position, noting the pub has operated under similar arrangements for around 16 years without issue.

He argued the venue primarily attracts older customers, who are more likely to head home after celebrations than take alcohol to the beach.

Head of legal Tony Groom also said the pub was not a destination for late-night takeaway drinks, adding that customers would typically have sourced alcohol elsewhere long before the early hours of the morning.

The licensing panel has reserved its decision, which is expected within the next few days.