Safestay receives planning approval for new Brighton hostel

Safestay has received planning approval to develop a new 170-bed hostel in the heart of Brighton. 

The planning approval follows the hostel group’s acquisition in June 2024 of the freehold property on Pavilion Parade for a total consideration of £2.275m.

Set over five storeys, the building is a Grade II listed, Regency-style end of terrace property spanning 15,300 sq ft. It is situated in the centre of Brighton, just 600 metres from the Brighton seafront and opposite the Royal Pavilion. It is also within close range of The Lanes, the city’s shopping and leisure district.

Safestay will invest approximately £1.0m in the conversion of the property, with the hostel anticipated to open in early 2026.

Larry Lipman, chairman of Safestay, said: “We’re delighted to have obtained planning approval to convert our Brighton location into a 170-bed hostel. Once operational, the site will create approximately 20 new jobs in the area as well as making a significant contribution to the local economy by enabling potentially thousands more visitors a week to stay in one of Brighton’s most vibrant and commercial areas.

“Brighton is an amazing city, attracting millions of visitors throughout the year, making it a perfect fit for Safestay’s strategy of building its portfolio offering fantastic, highly affordable accommodation in premium locations across some of Europe’s most vibrant travel locations.”

He added: “We have a proven track record of acquiring and developing hostels across Europe to create value. Our Edinburgh Cowgate hostel which opened in 2024 following refurbishment has performed incredibly well, proving hugely popular with visitors to the city looking for safe, welcoming, and great value accommodation. 

“I am very confident that Safestay Brighton will be another fantastic addition to the group’s portfolio, and I can’t wait for us to begin to welcome visitors in early 2026.”