Police are hunting vandals who smashed windows and spray-painted graffiti at the Brighton Centre in the early hours of Thursday, October 10. The damage came just hours before a heated feminist conference was due to kick off.
Police Launch Investigation After 4am Attack
Officers were called to the Kings Road venue around 4am following reports of criminal damage. Sussex Police confirmed multiple windows were broken and sprayed with paint.
“Police were called to the Brighton Centre in Kings Road, Brighton this morning (October 10) at around 4am following reports of vandalism. It was found that a number of windows had been smashed and spray painted. Officers are investigating the incident and encourage anyone who witnessed anything suspicious, or who has any relevant information or footage to come forward. Information can be reported online or by dialling 101 quoting serial 136 of 10/10.”
Venue Responds to Rising Tensions Around Controversial Event
The women’s conference, which has sparked fierce debate over gender and sex-based rights, has split opinion across the city. Ahead of the event, the Brighton Centre stressed its neutrality amid the backlash.
“We understand the anxiety and stress that many of our trans, non-binary and intersex residents are feeling at this time. As a city, venue and a council, we will continue to strive towards our unwavering commitment to creating an environment where everyone feels a sense of belonging. The Brighton Centre has a long history of hosting events that represent a diverse mix of communities and perspectives. Individual events represent a wide cross-section of opinions that should not be attributed to those of the attendees, audience or venue staff but are reflective of a democratic society. It is not our intention to create division but to host a range of conferences that meet the needs of all people in the area. As a conference venue we seek to provide a neutral space for hire and always seek to ensure we do not show bias to any group or individual but that we protect the principles of freedom of speech, as long as all our booked events operate within the law and in line with our venue hire policy.”
Police Urge Witnesses to Come Forward
No arrests have been made yet. Sussex Police continue their enquiries and urge anyone with information or footage to contact them quoting reference 136 of 10/10. Call 101 or report online.
