Case Study: Project and Construction Management for the Royal Albion Hotel, Brighton

The Bloomsbury Group has been awarded the contract for the rebuild and refurbishment of the Grade II* listed Royal Albion Hotel following extensive fire damage. This prestigious project requires meticulous planning and execution to restore the iconic seafront landmark while ensuring compliance with UK building regulations and preserving its historical significance.

Royal Albion Hotel Project Timeline

13 June 2025

Phase 2 nears completion. Demolition and asbestos clearance of the Lions Mansion is substantially finished, with the site now made safe. Planning for Phase 3, the proposed demolition of Clive House, is underway, pending permissions and a full A259 closure. Phase 4—renovation of the original Royal Albion Hotel—is expected to begin in autumn 2025. Expressions of interest are open for dry lining, partitioning, M&E, HVAC, plumbing, and electrical contractors. Phase 5 will involve rebuilding Lions Mansion in collaboration with key stakeholders, aiming to deliver a high-quality, expanded hotel offering up to 250 rooms.

4 May 2025

New drone footage showcases the evolving site and strategic redevelopment efforts around the Royal Albion Hotel and the wider Old Steine area. The project continues to honour Brighton’s architectural heritage while contributing to the regeneration of the Valley Gardens corridor.

2 April 2025

Scaffolding installation begins along the frontage of the Grade II* listed Royal Albion Hotel, marking the next phase of works. The first planning application, prepared by HNW Architects, is set for submission by Lewis & Co Planning. Temporary full and partial closures of the A259 are scheduled over a two-week period to enable this work safely. Heritage assessments by Archaeology South-East are now complete.

12 March 2025

The first machine arrives onsite. Demolition begins with urgency to allow the A259 to reopen in time for the marathon. Bloomsbury Group and partners at KSD Group lead this critical stage of the project.

2 March 2025

Demolition and clearance works progress well. The team plans to submit the Listed Building Consent application later this month. Thanks to the design team—HNW Architects, Lewis & Co Planning, Archaeology South-East, KSD Group, and Garratt Consultants—for their valuable contributions and support.

28 February 2025

The Bloomsbury Group begins managing the restoration of the Royal Albion Hotel in Brighton, ensuring its future on the historic seafront. Initial site safety works begin to allow partial reopening of the A259 ahead of the Brighton Half Marathon. Significant preservation works have already been undertaken by Britannia Hotels, including making the building watertight. Demolition and clearance will continue into spring and summer 2025, with heritage consultants supporting planning and listed building consent applications. The hotel's 200th anniversary restoration plans are underway.

Site Set-up August 2024

1.1 Site Security and Access

• Implementing a robust site security system in accordance with the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015 (CDM 2015).
• Establishing controlled access points with biometric entry systems.
• Installing CCTV coverage across the site perimeter.

1.2 Temporary Facilities

• Erecting site offices, welfare facilities, and first aid stations as per the Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992.
• Implementing a waste management plan in compliance with the Site Waste Management Plans Regulations 2008.

1.3 Traffic Management

• Developing a comprehensive traffic management plan in consultation with local authorities.
• Installing clear signage and designated delivery areas to minimise disruption to local traffic.

Scaffolding

2.1 Design and Installation

• Commissioning a bespoke scaffolding design by a qualified temporary works engineer.
• Erecting scaffolding in compliance with the Work at Height Regulations 2005 and TG20:13 guidelines.

2.2 Safety Measures

• Installing debris netting and protective fans to safeguard pedestrians and adjacent properties.
• Conducting regular inspections as per the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015.

2.3 Public Protection

• Implementing a covered walkway along the seafront to ensure public safety and maintain access.
• Installing hoarding with viewing panels to allow public engagement with the restoration process.

CDM Compliance

3.1 Principal Designer Appointment

• Appointing a qualified Principal Designer at the project's outset, as required by CDM 2015.
• Developing a comprehensive pre-construction information pack.

3.2 Risk Management

• Conducting thorough risk assessments for all stages of the project.
• Implementing a permit-to-work system for high-risk activities.

3.3 Contractor Management

• Ensuring all contractors are competent and CDM compliant.
• Holding regular safety briefings and toolbox talks.

Strip Out

4.1 Asbestos Management

• Commissioning a comprehensive asbestos survey in line with the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012.
• Engaging licensed contractors for asbestos removal, following HSE guidelines.

4.2 Structural Assessment

• Conducting a detailed structural survey to assess fire damage.
• Developing a phased strip-out plan to maintain structural integrity.

4.3 Waste Management

• Implementing a rigorous waste segregation system.
• Aiming to achieve over 90% recycling rate, exceeding the requirements of the Waste (England and Wales) Regulations 2011.

Reconstruction

5.1 Fire Safety Design

• Developing a comprehensive fire strategy in compliance with Approved Document B (Fire Safety).
• Installing a state-of-the-art fire detection and suppression system.

5.2 Structural Reinforcement

• Utilising advanced carbon fibre reinforcement techniques to strengthen fire-damaged structural elements.
• Ensuring all works comply with Approved Document A (Structure).

5.3 Energy Efficiency

• Incorporating high-performance insulation and glazing to meet Part L (Conservation of Fuel and Power) requirements.
• Aiming to achieve an EPC rating of 'B', significantly improving the building's energy performance.

5.4 Heritage Preservation

• Working closely with local conservation officers to preserve and restore key historical features.
• Sourcing materials to match original specifications where possible.

5.5 Accessibility

• Improving accessibility throughout the building in line with Approved Document M (Access to and Use of Buildings).
• Installing lift access to all floors and creating wheelchair-accessible rooms.

5.6 Building Services

• Upgrading all electrical systems to comply with BS 7671:2018 (18th Edition IET Wiring Regulations).
• Installing a new HVAC system meeting current energy efficiency standards.

Ongoing Project:

The reconstruction of the Royal Albion Hotel presents numerous challenges, from ensuring public safety in a busy seafront location to preserving the building's historical character while meeting modern building standards. Through meticulous planning, strict adherence to UK building regulations, and innovative construction techniques, The Bloomsbury Group is working to deliver a project that will not only restore this iconic landmark but also enhance its safety, accessibility, and energy efficiency for future generations.

As the project progresses, it continues to demonstrate The Bloomsbury Group's expertise in handling complex reconstruction projects, particularly those involving historically significant buildings in sensitive urban locations. Our commitment to regulatory compliance, coupled with our innovative approach to construction challenges, is ensuring the delivery of a high-quality, safe, and sustainable restoration that respects the Royal Albion Hotel's heritage while meeting the demands of modern hospitality.

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