What next for the Valley Gardens project in Brighton?

It will include replacing the Aquarium roundabout in  front of Brighton Palace Pier with a T-junction.

The Valley Gardens project started in September 2018, aiming to change radically the space between St Peter’s Church and Brighton Palace Pier.

Phases one and two of the three-stage scheme have been completed, with new road layouts, green spaces, bike lanes and pathways introduced between The Level and Old Steine.

The completed Valley Gardens phase two from above Credit: Brighton and Hove City Council

Phases one and two of the three-stage scheme have been completed, with new road layouts, green spaces, bike lanes and pathways introduced between The Level and Old Steine.

Phase two was completed last summer, with major strides made during the first national lockdown as the amount of traffic on the roads fell dramatically.

The third stage will focus on the area from Old Steine to the Palace Pier.

• READ MORE: The Pier roundabout WILL be replaced in Brighton

Councillor Steve Davis, chairman of the Valley Gardens task and finish working group, confirmed that Brighton and Hove City Council is aiming to start works on phase three "later this year".

He said: “We have recently appointed the design team which will be reviewing the detail of the design and taking into account the consultation and engagement that’s been carried out.

“The proposal for a crossroads at Madeira Drive will remain as part of the scheme.

The rejuvenated Valley Gardens following the completion of phase two

"We’re looking forward to the completion of the final part of this wonderful project, especially after the reaction to the excellent first two parts."

Following the swift progress made during the first national lockdown last spring, the council was able to remove the fencing which had surrounded the green spaces in Valley Gardens for almost two years.

This move was met with a positive reaction from residents, who were impressed with how the development had improved the city centre site.

• READ MORE: Valley Gardens project blossoms during lockdown

After visiting Valley Gardens shortly after it was reopened, Ben Citron said: “The transformation is amazing. Such a lovely use of the space. Money and time well spent.”

Jimmy Gregory was also full of praise for the new look.

He said: “What’s been achieved here is beautiful, and a drastic improvement from what was there before.

“Well done to planners, designers and road workers for this excellent piece of design and landscaping - your design will last the test of time, I am sure.”