Walking, cycling and accessibility improvements on the A259 

The recent six-week consultation on proposals for the area between Fourth Avenue and Wharf Road has now closed. The comments and data are currently being analysed.. 

This proposed plans include:

  • increasing pavement space
  • extending the protected westbound cycle lane
  • increasing the number of parking spaces for Blue Badge holders
  • additional pedestrian space, including outside seating space 
  • raised table junctions and dropped kerbs to assist wheelchairs, mobility scooters and pushchairs 
  • extension of the westbound cycle lane with cyclists separated from motor vehicles 
  • additional cycle parking spaces, including space for larger and adapted bikes 
  • additional loading bays and parking spaces for Blue Badge holders

About the plans

View the plans for the Active Travel Scheme.

Previous improvements to the A259

In spring 2020, we secured funding through the government’s Active Travel Fund to make walking and cycling improvements to the A259. This is the iconic seafront space in Brighton & Hove. It is used by thousands of residents and visitors all year round. 

In August 2020 we installed a temporary westbound cycle lane from West Street to Fourth Avenue.  

Since the cycle lane was installed the area has seen an 85% increase in cycling compared to 2019, with 4,897 trips recorded along this stretch on an average day during June 2021. 

In February 2021, a public consultation was held. It allowed people to comment on the temporary cycle lane between West Street and Fourth Avenue and proposals to improve the space between Fourth Avenue and Wharf Road. 

At a special meeting of the Environment, Transport and Sustainability (ETS) committee in July 2021, members agreed that the council should consult and engage further with the businesses and residents directly impacted by the plans for the area between Fourth Avenue and Wharf Road. 

In November 2021, councillors on the ETS committee agreed make the temporary cycle lane between West Street and Fourth Avenue permanent. 

What happens next 

All comments received during the consultation are being carefully considered. A summary of the consultation will be reported to the council’s Environment, Transport and Sustainability Committee on 15 March 2022 where decisions will be made. 

The report will be made public before the committee meeting. Check our committee page for more details.