Understand
Plans to demolish eight Brighton tower blocks progress with initial notices
Overview
Brighton and Hove City Council has announced that plans to demolish eight tower blocks containing 554 flats are moving forward, although actual demolition is not imminent. The buildings—Falcon Court, Heron Court, Kestrel Court, Kingfisher Court, Swallow Court, Dudeney Lodge, Nettleton Court, and St James's House—were found in 2024 structural surveys to no longer meet safety standards. The council is issuing initial demolition notices, which suspend mutual exchanges and Right to Buy applications while residents are supported in finding alternative housing.
Key points
- Brighton and Hove City Council is progressing with plans to demolish eight tower blocks comprising 554 flats.
- The affected blocks are Falcon Court, Heron Court, Kestrel Court, Kingfisher Court, Swallow Court, Dudeney Lodge, Nettleton Court, and St James's House.
- Structural surveys in 2024 showed the buildings failed to meet current safety standards regarding explosions or large fires.
- Initial demolition notices are being issued to residents, which remain in place for seven years and suspend mutual exchanges and Right to Buy applications.
- The council has reassured residents that demolition is not imminent and that support is being provided to find alternative homes.