Meet the team.

The Master Mariner reopening project is being led by local people who care about the pub, Brighton Marina and its community. The steering committee brings together governance, financial and practical experience to build a responsible plan for the future.

Community steering committee

Local people.
Shared purpose.

Steering committee

Working together for the Master Mariner.

These ten profiles reflect the current working structure of the project and the responsibilities confirmed so far.

Chair · Head Negotiator · Plunkett Coordinator

Lewis Dillon

Chairs the steering committee, leads stakeholder negotiations and coordinates the project’s work with Plunkett UK.

Vice Chair

Jamie Wanless

Supports the chair and helps maintain collective, practical decision-making across the project.

Treasurer

Michelle Baden

Oversees financial planning, budgets and the evidence needed to build a sustainable community pub.

Secretary

Debbie Dillon

Supports governance, records, correspondence and clear communication across the committee.

Refurbishment Lead

Andy Nicholson

Coordinates the assessment of the building, essential works and the practical route towards reopening.

Negotiating Subcommittee Member

John Cole

Contributes to stakeholder discussions and agreement preparation as part of the negotiating subcommittee.

Steering Committee Member

Stewart Stone

Contributes committee input, local perspective and practical support as the reopening plan develops.

Steering Committee Member

Alastair Withenshaw

Contributes local knowledge, constructive scrutiny and practical support to the developing plan.

Steering Committee Member

Samantha England

Brings local insight, constructive ideas and practical support to the committee’s developing plans.

Steering Committee Member

Andrew Hewstone

Contributes practical input and community-focused support as the reopening project moves forward.

A community effort

There is room for more hands around the table.

The committee is supported by residents, volunteers and advisers. Opportunities to contribute will be shared as the project develops.

See how to get involved →