Final phase of seafront development given go ahead

The work could take up to 18 months to complete

A roundabout adjacent to Brighton Palace Pier will be replaced with a new junction as part of a multi-million pound project.

Work on the final phase of the Valley Gardens project has been given the go ahead following a review of the plans.

The plans - which are adjustments to the original proposals for the project - also include new cycle lanes and more parking bays for blue badge holders.

However, campaigners have raised concerns that the changes will cause gridlocked traffic in the city.

The decision to move forward with the project, which spans from the Old Steine to the seafront, comes after meetings between Brighton and Hove City Council councillors and officers.

As a result, the changes were made, including creating more space for buses to move in and out of stops, an additional taxi rank, improved lighting and a new obstruction-free pavement design.

Councillors have now asked officers to proceed with the procurement of a principal contractor.

Phase one and two of the Valley Gardens project have been completed

Trevor Muten, chair of the transport and sustainability committee, said the review gave residents, businesses and visitors the “best possible scheme, which delivered on its objectives and worked for everyone”.

However, Valley Gardens Forum, a group of residents and businesses, said the plans will create more traffic in Brighton and Hove.

Co-ordinator Daniel Nathan told BBC Radio Sussex: “It will slow down vehicle movements down the seafront, creating more fumes and congestion.

“That isn’t the way forward.”