Tucked away just off Western Road, Brighton’s Imperial Arcade is marking over a century of life, stories, and change. Opened in 1923, it once shimmered as a hub of boutique retail and buzzing footfall, connecting the city’s vibrant streets with a stylish corridor of independent shops. Now, 101 years later, its future is being rewritten, quite literally, with restoration underway and a vision of modern city living in the works.
Time has not been gentle to the arcade. After its heyday in the early 20th century, the number of shops dwindled, especially when Western Road was widened in the 1930s. Once filled with 17 storefronts, only eight remained by the mid-century. Over the years, footfall declined further, and many of the units were left abandoned. Recently, it’s been described as eerily empty, home more to pigeons and passing shelter-seekers than the bustling shoppers it once welcomed.
But things are shifting. Moretons Investments, a Brighton-based property firm, purchased the site last year and set out on an ambitious mission: to bring Imperial Arcade back to life. Their vision blends past and present, with plans for an “exciting commercial space” on the ground floor and stylish residential flats above. Cosmetic updates are already underway, with striking CGIs giving locals a glimpse of what’s to come. New entrances from both Western Road and Dyke Road will soon greet a new generation of visitors.
In the words of Michael Blencowe, director at Moretons, “Once a prime space for boutique retail, Imperial Arcade has unfortunately experienced a decline over the years. But we are eager to revitalise this piece of Brighton real estate.” And it seems they’re not alone in that enthusiasm.
Newlands Commercial has joined the effort, tasked with attracting tenants that can reinvigorate the arcade’s potential. According to their managing director, Richard Lowrey, there are already discussions with well-known retailers keen to move in. “We’re excited to see what comes next,” he said, “and we’re already in discussions with several commercial operators who recognise the potential of this location.”
And what a transformation it’s becoming. It’s morphed into a huge games place where you can find popular games including slot machines, just like you’d find at any decent online slots site. But there’s much more on the table than neon lights and gaming buzz, plans also include an eclectic mix of food vendors, lifestyle brands, and independent retailers to bring back that uniquely Brighton charm.
Brighton and Hove City Council’s new Labour administration has also voiced support, aiming to rethink and repurpose high streets across the city. They’ve called the arcade a “retail gem” and expressed interest in turning similar vacant properties into meaningful spaces for residents and small businesses alike. Ideas floated by the community include weekend markets and even seasonal art installations.
Once derelict and nearly forgotten, Imperial Arcade is inching its way back into the heart of Brighton’s culture and commerce. With careful planning, bold vision, and a little local magic, it might just reclaim its place as one of the city’s favourite hidden gems.
