It is the largest of its kind in southern England,[3] and is regularly used for conferences of the UK political parties and other bodies of national importance.

[5] It was designed in a Brutalist style by architects Russell Diplock & Associates, who made extensive use of textured concrete.

[6] The venue is situated in the centre of Brighton on the sea front and is within 200 metres of major hotels.

Champions of the event included Chris Evert, Martina Navratilova and Steffi Graf.

On 17 December 2006 comedy rock duo Tenacious D performed as part of their Pick of Destiny Tour, Neil Hamburger was the opening act.