A much-loved pub and grassroots music venue is once again under threat of closure.
An appeal is planned against the decision to reject controversial plans for a four-storey commercial building next to the Prince Albert in Trafalgar Street, Brighton.
The bid was dismissed by Brighton and Hove City Council after a wave of support for the pub.
The venue, which has hosted hundreds of up-and-coming musicians as well as established names such as Fatboy Slim, thought its future had been secured after orchestrating a huge campaign.
It had feared the fact the planned development included two holiday lets could lead to noise complaints about the pub and could eventually force it to close.
Now the owners say they need supporters to rally once again to halt “the biggest threat we have ever had”.
Toby Jones playing a gig at the Prince Albert (Image: @FelixFarrow/X)
Owner George Taylor said: “We found out about it early last week and have just taken a few days to collect ourselves and work out how we can fight it.
“It’s very frustrating and disheartening. We always knew this might happen but we thought with Beak [Brewery, who proposed a new street food market] moving in that was the end of it.
“We know how amazing people can be so we want to get everyone back to their battle stations.”
In a post on Facebook, the Prince Albert said that the owners of the neighbouring property, Camping’s Luxury Coaches, would be appealing the Brighton and Hove City Council ruling from November to the Secretary of State.
Fatboy Slim playing at the Prince Albert
The developers were looking to knock down an old garage in 47 Trafalgar Street.
The campaign to save the Prince Albert amassed a wave of support from Brighton residents, including world-renowned DJ Fatboy Slim who played a gig at the pub in support.
Mr Bates v The Post Office actor Toby Jones also played a DJ set at the pub earlier this year.
Councillors had concerns about the block being overbearing and said the pub should be protected due to its popularity.
The appeal means that the decision could be overturned and the planning application could be approved.
Comments on the application appeal are due by the end of July with a decision date not yet set.
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