The plans are for two Olympic sized ice rinks one of which can be covered to convert the space into an 11,000 capacity arena for shows and events. There will also be 64 low rise homes, 26 of which would be affordable, and the scheme would support 126 full-time and 225 part-time jobs. The development is expected to add about £8m to the local economy when it is completed in 2008.

One of the issues that has dogged the scheme is the transport problem associated with delivering and removing up to 11,000 people from the site at the end of Madeira Drive after music concerts or major sporting events.

Black Rock from the A259

Originally both a Park & Ride on the outskirts of the city and a rapid transit system were expected to contribute to the overall transport solution but these have not materialised and sustainable transport solutions are limited.

The Brighton & Hove Economic Partnership will be responding to the planning application.