James Gray: This seems likely to become another of Brighton’s problem areas. On 5 April 1981, I had these photographs taken,[see also jgc_29_003 and 004 below] thinking that comprehensive redevelopment of this rather shabby area was likely to take place before long. I was mistaken. Known as the Golden Lane project plans were agreed by the Planning Officers of Brighton and Hove (at the rear, buildings go through to Waterloo Street, Hove) but recession intervened. Since then little had been done here except that the large central area of business premises has been demolished and the Western Street frontage is boarded up.
James Gray: This photograph, taken in 1928, is of the old tavern at the corner of Western Street and Norfolk Street, just before it was reconstructed. It was originally a beer house, one of many established under the provisions of the Beer Act 1830. It has had an uneventful life and no outstanding event seems to have been recorded about it. jgc_29_006
James Gray: This seems likely to become another of Brighton’s problem areas. On 5 April 1981, I had these photographs taken, thinking that comprehensive redevelopment of this rather shabby area was likely to take place before long. I was mistaken. Known as the Golden Lane project plans were agreed by the Planning Officers of Brighton and Hove (at the rear, buildings go through to Waterloo Street, Hove) but recession intervened. Since then little had been done here except that the large central area of business premises has been demolished and the Western Street frontage is boarded up. This was formerly the Anchor Brewery, Golden Lane, given up some years ago. The main central area now demolished. jgc_29_003
2018: The 1981 photograph shows the Golden Lane project site. The area was partly in Brighton and partly in Hove and development did not take place until after the unitary authority of Brighton and Hove was established in 1997. Photographer: Clare Rogers
James Gray: See caption for jgc_29_005 above. Looking down to Embassy Court, showing 5/11 Western Street still there. jgc_29_004