A planning dispute has arisen over a 31-foot-long fake shark installed on a crazy golf course without prior planning permission. The fiberglass sculpture, which hangs from a gallows at Jumble Rumble Adventure Golf on Brighton's seafront, has drawn objections from residents who deem it offensive and a negative symbol.
Jumble Rumble Adventure Golf applied for retrospective planning permission for the shark in August 2026, after it became a fixture at the course the previous August. A resident, identifying as a member of the Green Party, formally objected to the structure, stating it unfairly depicts the marine animal as a criminal that has been slaughtered without reason. The objector argued that sharks are vital for marine ecosystems and that a symbol of destruction is inappropriate for a children's play area, especially amidst efforts to rewild seas and protect biodiversity.
Other social media comments echoed these sentiments, describing the shark as a "revolting, grisly thing" and celebrating "the torture of a creature on a rack."
However, some locals have defended the shark, dismissing the objections as an overreaction to a minor issue. They suggest that there are more pressing matters to address in Brighton.
A heritage assessment submitted as part of the planning application notes that the shark is visible from the beach and nearby promenades. The assessment concluded that the sculpture aligns with the historical recreational use of Brighton's seafront and does not detract from the character of the East Cliff Conservation Area or adjacent heritage assets. The plans also reportedly passed biodiversity checks, as the installation is within an existing site and is not expected to have a significant environmental impact.
Brighton & Hove City Council is expected to make a decision on the retrospective planning application at a later date. The owners of Jumble Rumble Adventure Golf have been approached for comment.