Brighton’s transport chief promises “better home for businesses” under Victorian arches
Brighton City Council's secured £22 million funding to revitalise commercial spaces along the seafront
Businesses situated under Brighton's historic Victorian Arches are being promised that they'll get a new lease of life - after £22million in government funding was secured for structural improvements.
Brighton City Council's Cabinet Member for Transport and City Infrastructure, Councillor Trevor Muten, says: "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...
"It also gives us the ability to create a better home for local businesses in this vibrant space on the seafront."
The investment targets phases 4 and 5 of the restoration project, working on the arches between the bandstand and The Seahorse, moving westward towards Shelter Hall. Previous phases have supported developments in nearby commercial and public areas, leading to increased vitality for the community.
"We see further along, where we have done work on the arches already, the vibrancy and renewal of the local economy," Muton remarked. "Great for businesses, the community and visitors to our city."
What We Know About the Plans
The project is scheduled to start this summer and focuses on strengthening the Victorian arches to improve commercial conditions for businesses underneath.
Councillor Muton emphasised that the initiative includes collaboration with local communities to explore options for enhancing public areas such as the King's Road paddling pool and play area.
The City Council is also contributing £3.9 million to ensure the project's success, aiming to boost the seafront’s economic activity.
Potential Disruption During Construction
Though the project promises to bolster Brighton’s lower promenade, Councillor Muton acknowledged the temporary disruptions expected during construction.
"The work itself will mean closure of that area while the construction is taking place," Muton stated. "But we will ensure traffic will keep moving in both directions throughout the work and also for the cycle routes and pedestrian routes to be kept open throughout the working area."