Work, Wi-Fi… And Wine? Hove Hub’s Drinks Licence Bid Under Fire

A co-working hub in Hove has sparked controversy after applying for an alcohol licence – despite saying it only wanted to serve drinks for a couple of hours a day.

The Foundry, based in the new Hove Gardens development on Ellen Street, told a Brighton and Hove City Council licensing panel yesterday (Monday) that it wanted to give members access to a beer and prosecco tap as an end-of-day perk from 4pm to 6pm.

But paperwork lodged with the council asked for permission to serve alcohol from 10am until 10pm, seven days a week – with the possibility of later hours for events.

That mismatch has caused concern among neighbours and councillors, who questioned why an office space needed a licence at all in the middle of a densely populated area.

Labour councillor Jackie O’Quinn, who represents Goldsmid ward, told the panel she was worried about how the site would be monitored in the evenings, with reception only staffed until 6pm.

Former councillor John Allcock also raised fears of noise and disruption for residents in surrounding flats.

The Foundry’s legal team insisted alcohol would be tightly controlled, available only to tenants, co-working members, event attendees and their guests.

They added that the bar area would be locked outside staffed hours and that conditions had already been agreed with Sussex Police – including a requirement for trained staff to be present whenever alcohol was being served.

Co-founder Adam Walker said the business had already created 300 jobs locally and wanted to maintain good relations with its neighbours.

“We’re very keen to engage with the community and make sure concerns are addressed,” the panel was told.

Councillors have now retired to consider the application. Their decision is expected within five working days.