Give Brighton hospital new lease of life, say campaigners

Once hailed as ‘an important addition to the attractions of Brighton’ (The Argus, July 21st 1881), the Royal Alexandra Hospital for Sick Children has been a familiar landmark on Dyke Road for well over 120 years. The work of Thomas Lainson, a local architect who also designed the Grade II*-listed synagogue on Middle Street, it is a testament to its creator’s ability to work in a variety of architectural styles.

‘The Royal Alexandra Hospital is an attractive and well built part of the history of Brighton,’ said Heloise Brown, Conservation Adviser of the Victorian Society. ‘It makes a significant contribution to the Conservation Area in which it stands. Government guidance states that buildings which enhance historic neighbourhoods like this should be preserved. This certainly applies to the Royal Alexandra.’

Yet the future of the former hospital is far from secure: plans are underway to raze the historic building to the ground and erect 156 residential units and 751 square meters of commercial floor space in its stead. The Victorian Society has opposed this planning application and is pushing for a conversion scheme which will keep the fine quality red brick and terracotta landmark in use for many years to come.

‘The loss of the Royal Alexandra Hospital would be a great shame for Brighton,’ continued Miss Brown. ‘It is a handsome building with a lot of potential for adaptation. In the right hands, it could be a great asset and a source of local pride. We urge Brighton and Hove City Council to throw the demolition plans out.’