Work starts today to improve and extend the basketball court on the seafront.

The court between Shelter Hall and the i360 in Brighton will get a colourful overhaul with a new wave design and new hoops and backboards.

It was commissioned by Brighton and Hove City Council after a consultation with residents.

There are also plans to make the court more accessible and host more basketball events.

More than 500 residents responded to a consultation, commenting on a proposed design and sharing their thoughts on how the court could be improved.

Councillor Alan Robins, cabinet member for sport and recreation, said: “I’d like to thank all those who took the time to respond to the consultation and share their views with us.

“By working together we can create something really special, supporting those who already enjoy playing basketball and encourage new players to have a go.

“It’s all part of our commitment to promote sport in the city and encourage healthy lifestyles.”

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The results of the consultation have been incorporated in the new design and include:

  • 90 per cent of the responses were happy with the proposed design
  • 98 per cent wanted to see new hoops and backboards, which are being installed
  • 86 per cent wanted to see a bigger, court – as a result the court will be increased by 4 metres in length and 2 metres in width
  • 88 per cent wanted to see more basketball events – an event schedule is being drawn up

The project is being funded by the council, while Hoopsfix, a not for profit organisation which aims to expand and raise the profile of basketball, is supporting the project with funding towards basketball equipment.

The work will be carried out in two phases because contractors need good weather to add the graphics.  Initial work will see the playing area increased with basic lines put in place.

The graphic will be added next spring before an official opening event, the council said.