Sussex get planning clearance

Sussex have confirmed that Hove will undergo a facelift after plans for redevelopment were rubber-stamped by the council

Sussex have announced they have been granted permission for all three phases of their forthcoming ground development at Hove.

Brighton and Hove Council’s Planning Committee, which met on December 16 to go through the designs, gave their unanimous approval to the proposals which will now see work on the £8million second phase take place from the end of the 2010 season.

Work is due to finish in time for the start of the 2011 season.

The development plans at the ground officially started last week, with the North end of the venue being prepared for the new groundsman’s facility.

This winter will also see the installation of the upgraded floodlight system and the demolition of the Gilligan Stand, to improve facilities for members, corporate guests, spectators and players and to enable the generation of additional income throughout the year.

Dave Brooks, Sussex chief executive, said: “This permission is a great step forward for the club after many years of planning.

“With the costs of running the grounds and club increasing annually, it is imperative we offer a better match day experience and generate increased non match day revenues to keep Sussex at the top of the domestic game.”