In case you didn’t notice,  The Level has had a major makeover. The new cafe has a steeply sloping green roof, planted with chalk grassland plants.

Designed and installed by Organic Roofs. Here’s the Argus story.

More than just a cycling-themed cafe at the Level in Brighton

6:30am Thursday 8th August 2013 in News

The city’s first cycling themed café is on track to open in the autumn.

Velo at The Level has been offered the lease on an eco-café as part of Brighton and Hove City Council’s £2.3 million restoration of the area.

Run by a team of local entrepreneurs headed by Nigel Lambe, co-owner of Small Batch Coffee Company, café Velo will combine a cycling theme with great coffee and outstanding food. The new single-storey café has high sustainability credentials, including a green, wildlife-friendly roof, solar thermal and PV panels, air source heating and a rainwater harvesting system.

Its positioning enables visitors to look out over the rest of the park, particularly the southern area with its new sensory gardens, water fountains, children’s play areas, restored pavilions, bridges and pergolas.

The café is expected to be open by the end of September, although the restored south end of the park, including the playground and the new skatepark has already re-opened to the public.

Councillor Pete West, chairman of the council’s environment, transport and sustainability committee, said: “What impressed us about Velo’s bid was the emphasis on sustainable food sourcing, fresh produce and affordable prices, alongside the exciting cycling theme.”

The new skate park at the Level