A jewellery outlet that was part of a criminal probe is being turned into a drinking establishment.
Proposals have been revealed to convert Crown Diamond, previously a jewellers in The Lanes area of Brighton, into a pub or wine bar.
The conversion follows the business’s unexpected shutting down in late 2025. Both Crown Diamond and another retailer called Platinum Fine Jewellery ceased operations without giving reasons.
Sussex Police began inquiries as customers worried about their belongings. The investigation resulted in a woman being held on March 4, 2026 on suspicion of involvement in fraudulent activity. She was later released on bail while inquiries continue.
Mehmet Sever, who runs LDJ Jewellery, filed the application in July 2025 to change the premises from a jewellers to a bar. Brighton and Hove City Council has given the scheme the green light, with the official ruling made on March 24 under reference BH2025/01775.
The application outlined the difficulties in finding appropriate locations for new pubs in Brighton and Hove, as well as concerns about the impact on local amenities, particularly in residential neighbourhoods.
One objection was raised to the plans. A nearby resident warned about the possibility of increased noise from the venue, particularly during late-night hours. The resident stated that existing problems with parking, deliveries, litter, noise and vermin were already at maximum capacity.
Planners at the council echoed these worries, observing that a jewellery shop typically generates less activity than a pub or wine bar. Nonetheless, conditions have been imposed on the new venue’s operating times to limit potential disturbance.
The bar will only be allowed to open between 9am and 11pm Monday to Thursday, 9am to midnight on Fridays and Saturdays, and noon to 11pm on Sundays. Council officers noted these times match those of other pubs nearby.
In January, a spokesperson for Sussex Police confirmed several reports about the sudden closure of Crown Diamond LTD and Platinum Fine Jewellery LTD in Union Street and Brighton Square in Brighton. Officers said they were looking into the circumstances and the location of customer property. Anyone affected was advised to report online or call 101.