Dry Dock
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ECE Planning
ECE Planning secured planning permission on behalf of Shoreham Port Authority for the redevelopment of the Dry Dock site in Southwick, delivering a mix of employment and café uses while safeguarding vital port operations.
The proposals included a replacement building featuring a reconfigured workshop, first-floor office space, and a new café with outdoor seating, elevational enhancements, and parking provision. A key challenge was navigating restrictive policy designations within the Shoreham Harbour Joint Area Action Plan (JAAP), which safeguard the site for port-related operations, and addressing flood risk concerns given the location is within flood zone 3.
ECE Planning engaged in pre-application discussions with the Local Planning Authority and the Environment Agency, demonstrating through robust evidence—including sequential testing and technical assessments—that the mixed-use scheme would enhance the port’s operational offer, provide economic uplift, and support regeneration aims.
The team led on all aspects of the planning strategy, coordinating specialist consultants and preparing a comprehensive Planning and Design & Access Statement. By proactively managing discussions with officers, addressing flood risk, heritage, noise, and air quality constraints, and aligning with sustainability policies, ECE Planning secured approval for a high-quality, policy-compliant scheme that balances regeneration with the operational integrity of the port.
