Brighton Valley Gardens project blossoms during lockdown

The Valley Gardens project in Brighton has made great strides during lockdown and the area looks completely different now grass has been laid and trees have been planted.

Two stages of the three-phase plan are now complete with the final step set to overhaul the section of road between Old Steine and the Palace Pier.

This includes changing the Aquarium roundabout for a T-junction, aiming to make the area safer to cross and allow visitors to reach the pier more easily.

The first two steps of the project have revamped the area between St Peter’s Church and the junction between Edward Street and Grand Parade.

The area now benefits from bike lanes which aim to take cyclists safely from The Level to the beach.

The road layouts have been changed and the highways have been narrowed to make way for wider pavements along St George’s Place.

Further towards the seafront, including in Marlborough Place and Old Steine, the streets are now lined with potted trees.

The gardens in the middle of this section of road, formerly known as Victoria Gardens, have been a building site in recent years as the major renovations took place – work began in September 2018.

They remain fenced off, but instead of rubble they are now filled with a network of paths cutting across grass areas which are surrounded by a colourful collection of flowers.

The startling transformation has drawn praise from visitors.

Councillor Anne Pissaridou, chairwoman of the city council’s environment, transport and sustainability committee, said: “It’s very pleasing to see phases one and two of Valley Gardens nearing completion and the variety of plants and imaginative landscaping have made a very colourful display.

“Valley Gardens is a key project in our goal to become a carbon neutral city by 2030 and is designed to make it easier for people to travel using public transport, walking and cycling.

“It’s also creating more public spaces for residents and visitors to enjoy and for local events.

“We are currently finalising the detailed design stage of consultation on Valley Gardens three, which will include talking to residents, businesses and stakeholders.

“I look forward to engaging with the community and hearing their views.”

The estimated cost of phase three is £7.84 million, with £6 million funded by a central Government pot of money called the Local Growth Fund.