A large fibreglass shark, standing 31 feet long and suspended from a gallows at a crazy golf course, has become the focal point of a planning dispute in Brighton. Jumble Rumble Adventure Golf installed the attraction last August on the seafront, but is now seeking retrospective planning permission after facing objections from local residents.
One resident, affiliated with the Green Party, lodged a formal complaint on August 29, 2026, describing the shark display as "very offensive" and a "symbol of slaughter and destruction." The complainant argued that depicting a marine animal as a criminal being slaughtered is inappropriate, especially in a children's play area, at a time when efforts are being made to rewild seas and protect marine life. The objection also noted that such a display contradicts educational goals of preserving wilderness and ecosystems.
Social media commentary echoed some of these concerns, with one user calling the shark "revolting" and "grisly," and another noting it might be unappealing to vegetarians. However, the shark has also drawn defenses from some residents who view the controversy as a "fuss over nothing."
A heritage assessment commissioned for the application stated that the shark is visible from the beach and surrounding promenades. The assessment concluded that the addition is in keeping with the area's historical use for recreational activities and does not detract from the significance of the East Cliff Conservation Area or nearby heritage sites. Biodiversity checks also indicated no substantial environmental impact, as the structure is located on an existing site.
Brighton & Hove City Council is expected to make a decision on the retrospective planning permission application at a later date. The Daily Mail has reached out to Jumble Rumble Adventure Golf for comment.