The economic power of positive private-public sector partnerships was underlined by Brighton & Hove Albion Executive Director Martin Perry when he addressed a packed meeting of The Sussex Property Alliance.
Mr Perry praised the support of Adur District Council in bringing the vision of the club’s training ground to life in Lancing between Shoreham and Worthing – and the original foresight of Brighton & Hove Council in helping the Seagulls create the AMEX Stadium, which has become one of the city’s economic powerhouses.
“Moving to the AMEX was a 10 year process and was a great example of how private-public sector partnerships can succeed,” said Mr Perry. “Since our move, we have created 1,000 full time equivalent jobs, contributed £38m to the local economy and entertained 3 million spectators in the first five years. In addition, it’s estimated that last year’s Rugby World Cup games at the Amex alone generated £46m for the city.
“Likewise, Adur Council immediately recognised the economic and social benefits of the training centre at Lancing and made it a strategic priority. Today it is home to all our teams – from academy and women’s teams through to the first team – and is a community resource used by 83 local clubs and 33 schools. It has created 100 full time equivalent jobs and added £3m to the local economy.”
Mr Perry then spoke of the collaborative approach of the Adur Council, which it is hoped will result in a mixed commercial and residential development on land adjacent to the training centre which will provide both jobs and housing.
“Together, we are working on a scheme that will create employment, 600 homes, a country park and infrastructure improvements. This type of positive partnership activity creates value for the council, the community and helps to drive the football club forward as we target a place in the Premier League.”
The Sussex Property Alliance, which is supported by Carpenter Box chartered accountants, Michael Jones commercial agency, and Bennett Griffin solicitors, also heard from Scott Marshall, of Marshall Regen, who works closely with the football club on its development activities.
