21st Century City

As the new millennium approached, Brighton and Hove underwent a renaissance that is continuing into the new century.

In 2000, the Queen granted Brighton and Hove city status.

The new seafront development turned a run down area into an attractive, trendy magnet for visitors. The newly created artists' quarter, clubs, bars and restaurants revitalised the area and turned it into (or restored it as) one of the most fashionable beachfronts in Britain.

And enormous amount of development and investment is still happening. 2002 sees the completion of some major infrastructure projects such as the Brighton Dome, the Aquarium Terraces, Brighton Marina waterfront, redeveloped Brighton and Hove museums and art galleries among many others.

• 2000 Brighton & Hove awarded city status by HM The Queen.
• 2002 Brighton Dome and Museum reopen.
• 2002 The city launches its bid to be the European City of Culture in 2008.