A martial arts school has applied to open from 7am, with some neighbours objecting and others offering support.
Kickboxfit (KBF) Martial Arts Academy, in Hallyburton Road, Hove, currently has permission to open from 8am to 9pm from Monday to Friday and from 9am to 3pm on Saturdays.
KBF wants to open from 7am to 9pm on week days – an extra hour in the mornings – and from 8am to 5pm on Saturdays and Sundays.
The site, on the corner of Dorothy Road, used to be a lawnmower and garden machinery sales and servicing business that opened at 9am until 2023, when the academy took over and was given permission to open at 8am opening.
A report to Brighton and Hove City Council’s Planning Committee recommends granting permission at a meeting that is due to be held next Wednesday (6 May).
KBF co-owner Mark Howell, 45, said that demand for training had grown and national-level competitors using the academy needed extra training time.
He said that the extension would allow the business to spread more classes evenly throughout the day.
Sixteen people have objected to the application, raising concerns about traffic, noise and parking.
One anonymous objector, whose details were redacted by the council, said: “Dorothy Road is a quiet residential street when the club is closed.
“However, when the premises are in use, the character of the road changes noticeably, with increased noise, traffic and general activity.
“In our view, the proposed extension of weekend opening hours would intensify these existing impacts and would be harmful to the residential character of the area.”
Another anonymous objector, whose details were also redacted, said: “Parking linked to KBF already causes significant problems.
“Users frequently park on double yellow lines, on white lines near junctions and in ways that obstruct visibility for pedestrians and drivers.
“This regularly creates congestion and safety issues. Dorothy Road is a cul-de-sac accessed only via Hallyburton Road. This junction is often blocked because of KBF-related parking and traffic.”
Mr Howell said in his application that the business had introduced measures to minimise disruption, including asking members to park considerately, managing class times to avoid congestion and discouraging early arrivals.
He said: “We continue to monitor this closely and remain committed to responding constructively to any future concerns. There have been no ongoing or unresolved issues.”
An anonymous supporter, whose details were also redacted by the council, said: “Extending the opening hours would be extremely beneficial for families like ours.
“It would provide more flexibility around school and work schedules, allowing more children to take part in these valuable activities.
“The club is a great asset to the local community and plays an important role in keeping young people active, focused and engaged in a positive way.”
The Planning Committee is due to meet at Hove Town Hall at 2pm next Wednesday (6 May). The meeting is scheduled to be webcast.
Ironically, extending the hours could alleviate the congestion complained about!
Seriously let the club crack on with it.
Always someone moaning about something nowadays.
At least they something at 8am in the morning, 1 hour soon passes by quickly.
Kickboxing is great for mental health because it combines physical exercise with focus and discipline. It’s an effective way to release stress, boost mood, and build confidence through real progress. You’re not just working out—you’re learning control, timing, and mental resilience.
For kids, it’s especially valuable. It teaches respect, boundaries, and self-discipline in a structured environment. It also gives them a healthy outlet for energy while helping them build confidence and social skills. A good class focuses on technique, safety, and personal growth—not aggression.
Overall, it’s one of the few activities that develops both mental strength and physical fitness at the same time.