It’s Official: Our Fiveways Patio is Here to Stay. Thank You, Brighton.
We did it. We actually did it.
After what feels like a lifetime of paperwork, late-night planning meetings, and more than a few nervous glances at the letterbox, we finally have the news we’ve all been waiting for. Application BH2025/02510 has been officially approved.
For those who haven't been following every twist and turn of our planning saga, this is the one that secures the future of our beloved outdoor seating area. Our patio, the heart of our Ditchling Road spot and the place where so many of you have shared laughs over a fresh pint of Sussex pale ale, is officially here to stay.
This isn’t just a win for us at Lost and Found; it’s a win for the Fiveways community, for independent business, and for everyone who believes that Brighton taprooms should be spaces where people can gather, breathe, and enjoy the best of what our local brewers have to offer.
A Long Road to the Finish Line
Let’s be real: it wasn’t an easy ride. Navigating the world of town planning can feel like trying to explain the nuances of a wild-fermented sour to someone who only drinks mass-produced lager. There were moments when we weren’t sure if we’d be able to keep the outdoor vibe alive.
When we first envisioned Lost and Found, we didn't just want to be another taproom in Brighton. We wanted to create a sanctuary. A place that felt like an extension of your own living room, but with better beer and a chance to meet your neighbours. The outdoor space was always a massive part of that vision.
However, we also knew that being part of a residential community like Fiveways comes with a huge responsibility. We aren’t a late-night club in the city centre; we’re your locals. We live here, we work here, and we care about the peace and quiet of our street just as much as you do.
The Promise: Harmony and Hops
Throughout this process, our message to the Brighton & Hove City Council and our neighbours was clear: we want to be the best neighbours possible. To make this work, we made some serious commitments that are now part of our official operating plan.
First off, we’ve agreed to a 9pm limit on the patio. While we’d love to sit under the stars until midnight, we know that the sound of happy chatter can carry. By clearing the deck at 9pm, we ensure that our closest neighbours can enjoy their evenings in peace while we keep the party going inside.
Secondly, we’ve invested in specialist noise limiters. We’re serious about the science of sound. These measures aren’t just boxes to tick; they are our promise to the community that we are here to contribute positively to the atmosphere of Fiveways, not disrupt it.
We want to give a massive shout-out to the council for recognising what independent Brighton venues bring to the table. In a world where high streets are increasingly dominated by corporate giants and "craft" brands owned by global conglomerates, protecting spaces like ours matters.
To Our Supporters: We Owe You a Pint
To everyone who wrote a letter of support, shared our posts, or simply told us "good luck" while ordering their round, THANK YOU. We were blown away by the volume of support from the Fiveways locals.
It’s easy to feel small when you’re up against planning departments and legal jargon, but seeing our community rally behind us was a powerful reminder of why we do this. You didn't just support a craft beer taproom; you supported a space that brings people together.
We also want to thank our neighbours. We know that change can be a bit daunting, and we appreciate the open dialogue we’ve had with many of you. We’re committed to sticking to our promises and ensuring that Lost and Found remains a positive, respectful part of the Ditchling Road landscape.
The Counter-Culture to Big-Label Beer
This victory reinforces our mission. We are the counter-culture to big-label beer. We don’t stock the corporate stuff you can find in every supermarket. Instead, we spend our time hunting down the most exciting, independent Sussex breweries.
Whether it's a crisp lager from down the road or a punchy IPA from a small-batch producer in the South Downs, every keg we tap tells a story of quality and passion. We’re here to give those brewers a platform and to give you a place to discover them.
And it's not just about the beer. While we don't have a kitchen of our own (we leave the cooking to the experts!), our weekend street food vans bring a rotating feast to our doorstep. From the legendary MOMO dumplings to mouth-watering smash burgers, there’s always something new to pair with your pint on the patio.
Celebrate With Us
So, what’s next? Well, we celebrate!
The patio is open, the sun (hopefully) is shining, and our fridges are stocked with the finest local independent beers for you to enjoy here or take away.
Looking for a Brighton party venue? Now that our outdoor space is officially secured, there’s never been a better time to plan your event with us. We offer free venue hire for up to 80 people, and our team is ready to help you host an unforgettable night: complete with the best craft beer selection in the city.
Like what you’ve tasted? Want to try some more? Come down this weekend, grab a seat on the decking, and let’s toast to the future of Fiveways. We’re proud to be rooted in this craft, and we’re even prouder to be part of this community.
It's official. We're here to stay. See you on the patio!
Cheers,
Jon & the Lost and Found Team
