> ## Content Index > Fetch the complete content index at: https://www.scenemag.co.uk/llms.txt > Use this file to discover other available public pages before exploring further. # Brighton LGBTQ+ venues unite behind five-point plan to safeguard city's queer nightlife - URL: https://www.scenemag.co.uk/brighton-lgbtq-venues-unite-behind-five-point-plan-to-safeguard-citys-queer-nightlife/ - Published: 2026-09-15T10:39:49.000Z - Updated: 2026-09-15T12:00:56.000Z - Author: Graham Robson - Tags: Community Corner, News A coalition of Brighton's LGBTQ+ businesses has unveiled a five-point action plan aimed at protecting the city's queer nightlife, warning that the future of Brighton's LGBTQ+ scene is at a "critical point" following a series of venue closures. The newly formed **Brighton LGBTQ+ Business Group**, which brings together operators from across the city's LGBTQ+ quarter, says urgent action is needed to ensure Brighton retains its reputation as the UK's LGBTQ+ capital and remains a thriving destination throughout the year. The group's proposals come after the loss of five LGBTQ+ venues in recent years, with most failing to be replaced by new LGBTQ+-focused businesses. Operators warn that without intervention, Brighton risks losing a vital part of its cultural identity and visitor economy. ![](https://www.scenemag.co.uk/content/images/2026/09/772122582_1280324854047956_8408304405980599282_n.png.jpeg) The five-point plan calls for greater recognition and investment in Brighton's LGBTQ+ Quarter, centred on **St James's Street**, **Marine Parade** and surrounding roads, alongside measures to improve safety, strengthen destination marketing, reform licensing policies and develop a long-term strategy for the city's night-time economy. Among the proposals are calls for permanent LGBTQ+ quarter signage and public art, enhanced CCTV coverage and lighting, increased **Night Safety Marshal** provision, improved hate crime reporting, and year-round promotion of Brighton as an LGBTQ+ destination rather than focusing primarily on Pride. The group also wants the council to create a more supportive licensing environment for responsible operators and to develop a broader strategy to support venues, transport, accommodation and winter tourism. The proposals were discussed at a meeting on 7 September involving venue operators, **Brighton & Hove City Council** representatives, **Sussex Police** and licensing officials. According to the group, the council has already committed to a number of immediate and longer-term measures, including restoring eight Night Safety Marshals, reviewing lighting and CCTV provision, exploring ways to make the LGBTQ+ Quarter more visible and progressing a wider night-time economy strategy. Monthly meetings have also been agreed to monitor progress. ![](https://www.scenemag.co.uk/content/images/2026/09/rbar2-1.webp) Facebook **Sean Pettit-Scheepers**, managing director of **The Birdcage**, said LGBTQ+ venues played a crucial role beyond nightlife. "At The Birdcage, we believe LGBTQ+ venues should be more than places to go out. They should be safe, welcoming spaces where our community can connect, celebrate and feel that they belong. "We fully support this five-point plan because urgent change is needed to protect these spaces, support responsible operators and ensure Brighton's queer community can thrive all year round. Working together, we can preserve what makes Brighton special while building a safer, more inclusive and sustainable future." The campaign has also received backing from Brighton Kemptown and Peacehaven MP **Chris Ward**, who described LGBTQ+ venues as a fundamental part of the city's identity. "Brighton's LGBTQ+ venues are part of the fabric of our city," he said. "They are businesses and employers, but they are also safe spaces, community hubs and a huge part of what makes Brighton such a special place to live and visit. "The recent loss and threatened closure of venues should be a wake-up call. We cannot simply assume that Brighton's LGBTQ+ nightlife will always be there without doing the work needed to protect it." Ward welcomed the collaborative approach between businesses, the council and police, adding that making the LGBTQ+ Quarter safer and more visible would be key to preserving Brighton's status as a leading LGBTQ+ destination. The business group's plan highlights concerns around public safety in the area, citing rising levels of hate crime and reductions in Night Safety Marshal provision. It also argues that Brighton has become too reliant on its historic reputation and Pride celebrations, calling for dedicated investment in promoting the city's LGBTQ+ venues and culture throughout the year. The Brighton LGBTQ+ Business Group includes operators from **Bar Broadway, Brighton Cruise Bar, Camelford Arms, Charles Street Tap, Legends, Marine Tavern, R-Bar, Revenge, The Birdcage, The Brighton Sauna, The Bulldog** and **The Queens Arms**. The group says it will continue working with Brighton & Hove City Council, Sussex Police and other stakeholders to ensure the commitments translate into meaningful action, while maintaining public scrutiny of progress.