Millions of pounds invested in exciting city plans announces VisitBrighton.com.

* Creation of 20-acre New England Urban Village * myhotel group invests �14 million in its third UK hotel * Europe's first surfing museum to open

Hundreds of millions of pounds are being invested in the city of Brighton in order to enhance visitors' experiences of the destination in 2006 and beyond.

2006 sees the culmination of the New England Urban Village after 18 months work, transforming 20 acres of central Brighton into a blend of contemporary homes and shops, including two new hotels - the first to be confirmed is a 249 room Jury's Inn, a college, community centre and public square.

Meanwhile the myhotel group are scheduled to open their third UK property in Brighton's new Cultural Quarter in 2006. At an investment of �14 million, the hotel was designed by New Yorker Karim Rashid in 'digi-pop' style, offering the latest in high-tech comfort and design.

Brighton beachfront will also play host to Europe's first surfing museum from May 2006, which will document the history of the sport from the 1770s to the present day and builds on Brighton's famous reputation as a fashionable Regency seaside destination. There will be numerous displays of vintage books and magazines, photographs and even a board owned by Britain's first professional surfer, Viscount Ted Deerhurst.

Nick Vowles, marketing manager at VisitBrighton says: "Brighton has always been a centre for development and innovation in the leisure sector, and the council's plans for 2006 mark the city's commitment to this progression. Openings like the Urban Village and redeveloped Cultural Quarter will only serve to heighten the range of activities and entertainment on offer to the Brighton visitor. We look forward to a year on year growth in tourism to the city and are set for record visitor levels in 2006."

The year also celebrates the 40th anniversary of Brighton Festival (Saturday 6 May - Sunday 28 May), England's largest arts festival, where the world's most cherished performers, composers, artists and entertainers will bewitch audiences of more than 400,000.

Details of the new developments for 2006 can be found at www.VisitBrighton.com

- Ends - About VisitBrighton.com

VisitBrighton.com is the official tourist guide to Brighton and it is funded and affiliated with Brighton and Hove City Council. VisitBrighton.com was established to provide tourists with details of where to stay, what to see and where to visit during their stay.

The website offers comprehensive information on visiting the city, and also provides exclusive offers and discounted rates on attractions, entertainment and accommodation.

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For further information please contact: Jo Hartley, Rooster: tel: 020 7559 6620 email: jo.hartley@rooster.co.uk web: www.rooster.co.uk