Madeira Drive in Brighton shut Sunday for Classic Car run

Madeira Drive will be closed between 6am and 6pm on Sunday for the motoring event's return.

A spokesman for the council said: "During the closure, the new cycle lane will remain partially closed to ensure adequate space for the safety of the event.

"Travelling from west to east of the city along Madeira Drive, the cycle lane will remain open from the Aquarium roundabout until opposite the Madeira Cafe.

"Cyclists will then be asked to dismount and walk the short distance to Concorde 2 where the cycle lane will be open. The same applies travelling from the east to west of the city along Madeira Drive.

"Parking will be suspended, apart from parking for disabled Blue Badge holders where the event organisers will accommodate parking requirements where possible. There will be Blue Badge parking along the northern section of Madeira Drive by the Sealife Centre and gym."

The London to Brighton Veteran Car Run has been taking place every November since 1927 and commemorates the Emancipation Run of 1896.

While the London to Brighton Classic Car Run was started in 1988 and gives owners of vintage and classic cars the chance to take part in their own run – on a warmer day.

Madeira Drive has a long history of hosting events in the city including the Brighton Marathon and Burning the Clocks.

Uncertainty surrounded motoring traditions, such as the Classic Car run and Speed Trials, after city leaders failed to give them “unequivocal support” amid road closures.

At the time, Conservative Robert Nemeth argued it was "an attack on some of the world’s oldest and most-loved historic motoring events" and "showed a complete misunderstanding of both the economy and the wishes of residents".

Speaking today, he said: “The re-opening of Madeira Drive to motoring events is a hugely welcome prospect and all the more satisfying given how much work that I and other campaigners put into forcing the council into allowing their continuation.

"These events bring huge joy to all concerned and are worth millions to the local economy. Our heritage should be championed and conserved.

"Such events exemplify this principle and bring the delights of the past to a whole new generation of enthusiasts.”

The council said that as long as the government’s coronavirus roadmap remains in place, there are plans for Madeira Drive to host another nine events this year.

"We look forward to them returning stronger than ever and supporting the city’s cultural and economic recovery," a council spokesman said.

Where possible, he said, the council will be working closely with events’ organisers to enable continued access to the cycle lane and disabled parking during events.

The next planned events are the Brighton Half Marathon on June 27 and the Electric vehicle rally on July 18.

The spokesman added: "Outdoor events have a positive impact on the health and wellbeing of participants and spectators. However, events will need to meet Covid-safe requirements before they can take place.

"All events are subject to change as they will depend on the government restrictions that may be in place at the time."