Work to restore and strengthen a major section of the cityโs historic seafront arches is set to begin in the next couple of weeks.
The Brighton & Hove City Council project will see construction start on the next phase of the Kingโs Road Arches programme, focusing on the stretch between the Bandstand and The Seahorse Restaurant.
The Victorian-era arches support Kingโs Road, one of the cityโs busiest transport routes, carrying thousands of vehicles, pedestrians and cyclists every day. The work will help ensure the structures remain safe and resilient for future generations while also creating improved spaces for businesses along the seafront.
The scheme forms part of the wider council programme to restore the arches running beneath the A259, building on previous phases that have already delivered new business premises, public toilets and the popular Shelter Hall.
Earlier this month, the council's Cabinet also agreed to commit ยฃ4 million towards a funding bid of more than ยฃ41 million to complete phases 6 and 7 of the project further east along the seafront.
In preparation of the work starting, a work compound has been built to the west of the Bandstand. The area around the arches has also been fenced off.
Councillor Trevor Muten, Cabinet member for Transport and City Infrastructure, said: โItโs great news that work on this important section of the arches is about to get underway.
โThese historic structures are a vital part of our seafront infrastructure and this investment will help protect them for many years to come.
โAs well as safeguarding the road and active travel routes above, the project will create better quality spaces for businesses and help ensure our seafront continues to be a welcoming destination for residents and visitors.โ
The arches were built more than a century ago and have been exposed to the harsh marine environment for decades.
The restoration programme includes repairing damaged brickwork and concrete, replacing corroded structural elements and carrying out essential maintenance to extend the life of the structures.
Information about access arrangements and any temporary changes will be communicated to businesses, residents and visitors throughout the project and can be found on on the council's website.
