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Giant Shark Golf Feature Sparks Outrage
12 Sep
Summary
- A 9.5m shark statue on a mini-golf course drew objections.
- Objectors found the shark depiction offensive and ugly.
- The council will decide on retrospective planning permission.
A colossal 9.5-metre fibreglass shark adorning a mini-golf course on Brighton's seafront has become the subject of a planning dispute. Installed last August at Jungle Rumble Adventure Golf, the shark hangs from a gallows-like structure over a pirate-themed hole.
Retrospective planning permission was sought last month after the feature was installed. However, a formal objection has been lodged, describing the shark display as "ugly" and "very offensive." The complainant argues that depicting a marine animal as a criminal is inappropriate, especially in a children's play area, and stresses the importance of sharks for healthy seas.
A heritage assessment acknowledged the shark's visibility from the beach and Madeira Drive. Despite this, it concluded that the feature complements the area's established recreational use without harming the conservation area's significance. Brighton & Hove City Council is expected to make a decision on the application at a later date.
