Hove Co-Working Hub’s Alcohol Licence Sparks Local Row

Plans for a co-working space in Hove to serve drinks until 11pm have hit a wall of opposition from neighbours, a community group and a local councillor.

Foundry, which opened last month inside the new Hove Gardens tower block in Ellen Street, has applied for a permanent licence to sell alcohol daily from 10am to 11pm.

Until now, the business has relied on temporary event notices to serve drinks.

Co-founder Adam Walker originally wanted midnight closing, but scaled back the request after concerns were raised.

The proposal also includes draft conditions — such as limiting alcohol sales to tenants, co-working members, day-pass visitors, event attendees and their guests, not the general public.

But critics argue the move goes against earlier promises. Cllr Jackie O’Quinn said residents were led to believe the space would be a community facility:

“This is extraordinarily disappointing. Local people were told there would be a shared community area.

"Instead, we’re looking at a bar with late hours in a heavily residential area.”

The Hove Station Neighbourhood Forum also lodged objections, warning of “noise, public nuisance and potentially crime and disorder.”

Sussex Police, however, has already agreed a set of conditions with Foundry, including a requirement for trained staff to supervise alcohol service.

A council licensing panel will now decide the application at a hearing on Monday 29 September. The meeting will take place online and will be webcast.