Millions of pounds is set to be invested in the arches under King’s Road in Brighton with work starting this summer following a huge funding boost.
The Department for Transport (DfT) has awarded the city more than £22 million to bolster and repair the Victorian era arches which sit under the A259 along the city’s seafront.
The funding would pay for phases 4 and 5 of the work, focusing on the area between the bandstand and The Seahorse before moving onto the arches just west of Shelter Hall.
Phases 1 to 3 have already helped with the creation of new shops, public toilets and Shelter Hall.
Read more about the rebuilding of the seafront arches.
As well as the £22 million from the DfT, the council would contribute a further £3.9 million.
Councillor Trevor Muten, Cabinet member for Transport and City Infrastructure, said: “This is fantastic news and vital for the future of this key part of the city.
“This funding means we can strengthen the Victorian-era arches so they can support the road, pavement and cycle lane on one of the city’s busiest routes for another 100 years.
“But we’ll also be able to create a better home for local businesses in this vibrant space on the seafront and, working with local communities, look at options for a new and improved King’s Road paddling pool area.”
Roads and Buses Minister Simon Lightwood said: “Brighton is home to a whole host of attractions, from its iconic beach and legendary pier to the fantastic local businesses dotted across the nearby lanes.
“This funding will mean that everyone can continue to enjoy all of these for the next 120 years by revamping the Victorian arches that dozens of businesses along the seafront call home – boosting growth across Brighton”.
The closure of the King’s Road paddling pool while the work takes place, gives the council an opportunity to work with the local community on creating a new and improved facility.
The council is currently reviewing potential options for the site before holding a public consultation to gather the thoughts of city residents.
The playground and public toilets will also need to close during the work.
