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Resolved to:
 
This Council
Notes:
 
1) Brighton & Hove
is home to nationally significant heritage, from Saxon churches to
the Royal Pavilion;
2) 18 at risk sites
are listed by Historic England, others, are less well-known
3) Patcham, is home to
Brighton’s oldest church, a 16th century dovecote; a 1930s
clocktower; Patcham Place sports pavilion, included in the list of
planned pavilion upgrades in Administration’s’s Playing
Pitch Strategy; and Patcham Peace Gardens which the U3A
maintain;
4) Tourists and
residents note the poor state of the city’s heritage caused
by fourteen years of austerity under the previous national
government and the subsequent lack of funding for the maintenance
of the country’s heritage assets, recognising that the total
national budget for Historic England was only £117m in
2023/24
5) The reputational
damage and concern expressed by residents and visitors has led to
this administration’s determination to begin the restoration
programme for Madeira Terraces and the seafront heritage lanterns,
whose restoration begins autumn 2025.
6) That officers have
recommended a review be completed of all council-owned heritage
assets to establish the full extent of the problem.
 
Therefore, resolves
to:
 
1) Request that the
Place Overview & Scrutiny Committee consider undertaking a
cross-party Task & Finish Group review of all
council-controlled heritage assets, addressing potential timelines
and funding for restoration and maintenance;
2) Note the ongoing
consultation with residents and community groups to guide future
investment in the city’s heritage, recognising the social,
educational and public value of cultural regeneration.
3) Request the Place
Overview & Scrutiny Committee considers as part of any review
how the Council can strengthen partnerships with local arts
organisations, schools, colleges, universities, and heritage groups
to promote cultural education and inclusive access to our
heritage.