Brighton Hippodrome updates revealed in new application

Planning permission for a large-scale renovation of the historic site was granted in July 2024.

This involved creating a new mixed-use development, including a multi-format performance space, an apart-hotel, and a restaurant/cafe with a rooftop bar and terrace.

The plans also included the erection of a new building housing a second apart-hotel, the creation an additional rehearsal/performance space, and the provision of a members club with an external terrace.

The magnificent ceiling has already been restored (Image: Brighton Hippodrome) However, a new application sought to amend these plans, removing reference to the restaurant/cafe with rooftop bar and terrace, the rehearsal/performance space, and members club with external terrace.

Permission for these amendments was granted by Brighton and Hove City Council on June 4, 2025.

The application stated that the changes were due to an operator for the new Hippodrome site now being found.

A drawing from plans approved in 2024 showing the outline of the new apart-hotel building (Image: Matsim Properties) The planning application read: “The original permissions had been intended to be as flexible as possible, as at the time of application an operator for the scheme had yet to be found.

“An operator has since been found and the requirements for the development are now better understood.

“The proposed changes of this application relate to the mention of restaurant, café, and rooftop bar uses.

“The operator has expressed a preference for a bar only, without the restaurant and members club.”

The venue previously fell into a state of disrepair The Grade II* listed Hippodrome was originally constructed as an ice rink in 1897.

The venue has hosted performances from many famous names, including The Beatles and The Rolling Stones, though performances ceased in 1964.

More recently, the building was converted into a bingo hall in 1969, but has been vacant since 2006.

After years of disuse, the derelict Hippodrome venue was purchased in 2020 by the Lambor family, who run Matsim Properties in Brighton.

They have since spent millions on repairing and restoring the famous old venue, including more than £5 million replacing the roof.

The venue hosted a one-off performance in August 2024 before closing again for the extensive restoration works to continue.

A shot of the Hippodrome’s interior from 2023 (Image: Andy Li) READ NEXT: Popular DJ to perform at opening of new pub at sports ground

A council planning report read: “The inclusion of the restaurant/café with rooftop bar and terrace, rehearsal/performance space, and members club with external terrace as part of the proposal was not a policy requirement or otherwise required in order to make the proposed use viable.

“There are therefore no material consequences identified for the removal of these from the description of development.”

Matsim Properties have been contacted for further information on the new Hippodrome operator.