DEMONSTRATORS on foot, bikes and horseback marched yesterday to protest against the closure of an A27 crossing.

Brighton and Hove Friends of the Earth (BHFOE), Brighton Excelsior Cycling Club and Bricycles organised the rally in response to proposals to permanently close the Sussex Pad crossing near Shoreham.

The plans have been put forward by developers planning to build an Ikea store and 600 homes at New Monks Farm in Lancing.

There are controversial plans to close the Sussex Pad junction and open a new roundabout junction about 600 metres away.

Hundreds of walkers, cyclists and equestrians who use the crossing marched from Shoreham Tollbridge to the Sussex Pad junction.

Chris Todd of BHFOE said: “The current Sussex Pad junction across the A27 is a direct, safe and convenient route for people accessing the South Downs National Park.

“Its loss would be a major blow for people wanting to safely access the Sussex countryside.

“Unfortunately, the proposal to create a new bridleway under the A27 don’t meet minimum design standards and will create conflict between walkers, cyclists and horseriders and discriminate against disabled people.”

BHFOE and the other groups organised a count at the crossing over the weekend of June 30 and July 1 to see how popular it was.

They found that nearly 900 cyclists, 125 walkers and three horse riders used it.

Bob Harber, chairman of Brighton Excelsior Cycle Club, said: “This crossing is important for riders near and far. While it could be improved, to lose it would be disastrous.

“We’ve already shown how popular the crossing is from our count the other weekend.

“Whether you are a cyclist, a walker or a horse-rider, the loss of this crossing will adversely affect you.”

The £170 million development, led by Brighton and Hove Albion, would create 1,000 jobs, contribute £11 million to the local economy and bring £40 million of transport improvements.

The final decision on whether it will go ahead is being held on Wednesday.

A spokesman for New Monks Farm Developments Limited said: “We are very pleased that the council officer’s report has recommended that the planning committee approve the plans for the development at New Monks Farm.

“We have been working closely with the local authorities and statutory bodies to ensure the plans met the necessary criteria and to address any concerns or issues which have arisen.”

Brighton and Hove Albion was contacted for comment.