WORK to extend a seafront cycle lane along the A259 could be approved next week.

The scheme would see one lane of the A259 Kings Esplanade in Hove replaced with a cycle lane and extra pavement space along the parade of shops.

If approved, the work will start between Fourth Avenue and Wharf Road by early next year and will cost the council nearly £500,000.

Brighton and Hove City Council’s environment, transport and sustainability committee will discuss the report on Tuesday.

The Argus: The parking bays and left-hand lane will be removed to create additional pavement space and a cycle laneThe parking bays and left-hand lane will be removed to create additional pavement space and a cycle lane

The report recommends work can begin and agrees that "objections have been addressed".

Councillor Steve Davis, co-chairman of the committee said: “A lot of consultation and work has gone into this scheme and I’m pleased we’re now at the stage where we can begin construction.

“I’m excited to see the extension of the seafront cycle lane, but also very happy we’ve been able to increase the number of spaces for blue badge holders and make life easier for those with wheelchairs, mobility scooters and pushchairs with some much-needed accessibility improvements.

“Our seafront is an iconic feature of our city and a place everyone should be able to enjoy and travel along safely.”

The works include reallocating one lane of the westbound side of the A259 to separate cyclists from vehicles from Fourth Avenue to Wharf Road.

There will also be 26 parking spaces for blue badge holders, as well as 70 cycle parking spaces.

The Argus: Artist illustration of the schemeArtist illustration of the scheme (Image: Newsquest)

There will be three new loading bays in Victoria Terraces and the Kings Esplanade, as well as various works to improve pedestrian and wheelchair access.

Langdale Gardens bus stop will be removed.

The scheme was given an "amber" rating in the council’s own impact assessment previously.

The A259 scheme first went out to public consultation in February 2021. After further design and after a request for a second public consultation, this was conducted between November 2021 and January of this year. 

Designs were developed further and the scheme was approved by the committee in March.

The cost of the scheme will be paid for through the council’s active travel Tranche 2 fund and 2022/23 local travel plan.