A259 Hove to Brighton Active Travel Scheme

Why here?

The A259 is a key route identified for active travel improvements in the city’s Local Cycling and Walking Infrastructure Plan (LCWIP) and forms part of the National Cycle Network (Route 2). It is a popular route for commuters, residents and visitors, offering access to local shops, businesses and attractions along the seafront.

The current layout was introduced as a temporary scheme during the Covid pandemic, using emergency funding available at the time. It was then decided to keep the wider cycle lane making the arrangement permanent. The new design makes better use of the available space that benefits all users.

What’s wrong with the cycle lane already there?

The original cycle lane is too narrow for two-way cycling based on current user numbers and national design guidance. The current arrangement uses a whole traffic lane for cyclists travelling westbound, separated from traffic by wands. Moving to a single, two-way cycle lane would simplify the layout and make better use of the available space while also separating cyclists, pedestrians and motor vehicles. It would also allow us to introduce new parking spaces.

Are you moving lampposts?

We will be relocating the modern lampposts between Fourth Avenue and the Peace Statue. This will create more space for the cycle lane, improve pedestrian facilities and access, and provide additional car parking. None of the heritage lamp posts will be moved.

How is it being paid for?

We have secured £780,000 in funding from Active Travel England to deliver improvements along this route to support walking, wheeling and cycling. Nearly £4m has also been allocated by the Department for Transport over four years. It may be necessary to deliver the cycle lane in phases, as further funding becomes available. However, we are keen to consult on the full proposed scheme now, so everyone can understand and comment on the complete vision.

Couldn’t the money be used on things like fixing potholes?

No, the funding cannot be used for maintenance works and must instead be used to deliver active travel improvements.

Will you be removing parking bays?

We are proposing to introduce approximately 70 new parking spaces as part of the scheme. These will include a mix of disabled bays, loading bays, new electric vehicle charging bays, paid-parking and permit bays. By replacing the temporary scheme with a permanent one, we can make better use of the available space and bring parking back into this busy area.

How will the changes affect the conservation area?

The proposals will be designed to be sympathetic to the conservation area. We have consulted the council’s conservation team and will be involving them further during detailed design phase, especially when considering materials.

Why have you incorporated sustainable drainage/rain gardens?

SuDS features, including rain gardens, have been introduced in the proposed design to help manage surface water. We are aware that some areas are prone to surface water issues, and we want to address this as part of the wider proposals for the area. In addition, introducing green spaces along the route will help make the area more attractive and contribute to an improved overall environment.

Are you improving any of the bus stops?

There are two bus stop locations directly affected by the scheme, and both serve sightseeing buses. We are taking this opportunity to improve their layout, as passengers currently get off into the cycle lane. The new design will be safer, helping to reduce conflict between cyclists and bus passengers when boarding and getting off.

When would work start and finish?

We hope to start work late 2027 or early 2028. We expect to deliver in phases depending on the funding available.