Good morning, Brighton. Evenings are getting a little lighter around town. It’s marginal but I need to hang on to any crumb of evidence that Spring in on the way. Anyway…

In today’s Brighton Scoop:

🏊🏽‍♂️ Historic England has confirmed that Brighton & Hove’s King Alfred Leisure Centre will not be listed in the List of Buildings of Special Architectural or Historic Interest, clearing the way for its redevelopment. The council’s technical assessments found refurbishment is not viable due to the building’s poor structure, fragmented layout and outdated infrastructure.

Instead, the council plans a new, modern, energy‑efficient, fully accessible leisure centre that better serves long‑term community needs and offers better value for money than high‑risk repairs. Although this will upset a large proportion of the public who saw the redevelopment of the existing building as the better option for the community, hopefully this decision will prevent any further delays and we can all get back in the pool ASAP.

🚲 Great new for me as I’m on the hunt for a cargo bike, learning that Fully Charged has opened its sixth UK store at Brighton Marina, offering leading eBike brands, flexible test rides and full technical servicing. The team provides tailored advice for individuals, families, businesses and organisations seeking practical alternatives to car travel, including support for commercial eBike and cargo bike fleets.

The Brighton store builds on existing local cycling culture, combining the expertise of a long-standing local eBike business with Fully Charged’s national systems and aftercare. It also strengthens the company’s presence across the South and South East, giving local riders better access to expert guidance, curated products and long-term support. In April, Fully Charged will host a community event for local riders. Checkout their website for more info.

🇮🇹 Brighton’s beloved Italian restaurant Casalingo on Preston Street will close on 1st February after more than 50 years. Open since the 1970s and run by Angelo and Geri Martinoli since 1988, it became known for classic Italian food, a warm atmosphere and loyal regulars.

The closure marks the couple’s retirement after 37 years, now in their 70s. A farewell celebration featuring drag artist Dave Lynn took place on Sunday. Still a few tables available in the last few days. Book them while you can and say farewell. 👋

The Oui Creperie van dishes up all your favourite crepes and galettes across the city. Loder Rd (Tues 3pm), MODA Hove (Thurs 3pm), St Peter’s Church (Sat 10am), Shoreham Artisan Market (Sat 9am).& Preston Park Food Market (Sun 10am).

☁️ | 📈 8 | 📉 6 | ☔️ 50% | 🌬️ 11mph SE | 🌊 1-2ft

🌧️ | 📈 10 | 📉 5 | ☔️ 95% | 🌬️ 21mph SE | 🌊 4-5ft

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Brighton has endless festivals, conventions and get-togethers year round for everything from coffee, music & trees, to animation, food, Pride and of course the might fringe. Be sure to scan over this each week to see what’s’ on the beautiful horizon.

Great to have you follow the Scoop today. If you liked it, do share us with a friend. There’s a beer on me if you spot me in town.