Madeira Terrace could get a cash injection from the government.

Work to restore 28 of the historic arches on Brighton seafront is expected to start shortly, with contractors due to be appointed by the end of March.

The work will also include a new lift, refacing and regreening the Green Wall where possible and a new staircase down from the deck next to Concorde 2 and Shelter Hall.

Brighton and Hove City Council is now looking to secure extra funding to restore more of the arches.

Lead councillor for major projects Julie Cattell said: “Despite our incredibly difficult financial situation, I want people to know that we’re doing everything we possibly can to try and get more funding for the Madeira Arches.

“We’re talking to government agencies about the possibility of tapping into different funding streams they haven’t so far allocated to us.

“It’s very early days and there’s certainly nothing signed and sealed, but we are committed to doing everything we can to restore the Madeira Arches.”

Madeira Terrace was originally built as a covered promenade and viewing platform to attract tourists in the late 1800s. The Grade II* listed structure opened to the east of Royal Crescent in 1890 and was later extended to meet the Aquarium.

At more than half a mile, it is the longest cast iron structure in Britain.

However, the historic arches have fallen into a state of disrepair over recent years, with campaigns from residents calling on the council to restore the seafront landmark.

Preparation work for the restoration is due to get under way this week, with some section of the Green Wall being removed to allow for the work to take place.

Restoration work is expected to start on site in the summer and last for up to two years.

If the final contract matches the council’s current programme, the first group of arches could reopen to the public in the summer of 2026.