Concerns have been raised about the number of events held in Madeira Drive as plans to close the road for 21 days next year go before councillors.
Whitehawk residents in particular have complained after the roads there were in gridlock after the annual Mini Owners Rally in May.
At a public meeting in June, many complained roads were blocked as there were too many cars to fit in Madeira Drive during the event, which attracted 10,000 visitors.
East Brighton Labour Councillor and committee deputy chair Nancy Platts has raised residents’ concerns with officers about the number of events and the impact on residents.
September is the busiest month with five events over three weekends. May has four events planned over three weekends, including next year’s mini rally on the 19, according to a report going before Brighton and Hove City Council’s Tourism, Development and Culture Committee tomorrow (Thursday 22 November).
Speaking before the meeting, Councillor Platts said: “I am keen that we strike the right balance between Brighton as a lively and vibrant city for everyone who lives and works here, Brighton as tourist destination – and clearly tourism contributes hugely to or local economy – and the needs of local residents who want to enjoy the natural environment of the beach.
“I have received two written complaints from residents about this matter and I am supporting them to make their views known through the democratic process.”
The council can allow major events for 28 days throughout the year.
The biggest event is the London to Brighton Bike Ride on Sunday 16 June, with 50,000 people participating.
Brighton Marathon is second with 40,000 people pounding the streets on Sunday 14 April.
Fees charged for events in Madeira Drive contributes to the costs of the outdoor events team helps reduce the cost of charitable and community events and free public entertainments across the city.
The Tourism, Development and Culture Committee meets in public at Hove Town Hall from 4pm on Thursday 22 November.
Planned events
February
Sunday 24: Brighton Half Marathon
March
Sunday 24: Pioneer Motorcycle Run
April
Saturday 6: InCarNation
Sunday 14: Brighton Marathon
Saturday 27: Glow Run
May
Saturday 4: Children’s Parade
Saturday 11: Brighton Run2Music
Sunday 12: Historic Commercial Vehicle Run
Saturday 19: Mini Owners Rally
June
Sunday 2: Classic Car Run
Sunday 16: British Heart Foundatios London to Brighton Bike Ride
September
Saturday 7: Speed Trials
Sunday 8: Ace Cafe Reunion
Sunday 15: Do it for Charity London to Brighton cycle event
Saturday 21: Brighton Breeze (VW vehicles)
Sunday 22: Ragnor Rally White Cliffs 2019
October
Sunday 6: Bright10
Sunday 13: Brightona
November
Sunday 3: Veteran Car Run
Sunday 17: 10K Road Race
December
Saturday 21: Burning the Clocks
Why are people complaining about these events? Brighton and Hove needs well-organised events like these and we thrive on them.
They are great to take part in or for us locals to observe, and they usually attract a lot of business to the city.
For sure, the city gets busier on these days – just as it does on hot sunny weekends.
These events are part of the unique life we have here.
Let’s hope the minority of moaners don’t get their way.