Parts of the Green Wall will be removed as preparation work to restore part of Madeira Terrace begins this week.

The first 28 of the historic arches on Brighton seafront will undergo restoration, with work expected to begin in the summer.

Vegetation above and below the Terrace’s deck, around the Royal Crescent steps, is being removed before the work begins, which will reduce the risk of birds nesting before the restoration starts.

Brighton and Hove City Council has reassured residents that the area being cut back will have only a “relatively small” impact on the Green Wall, with much of the area affected currently bare concrete.

Councillor Julie Cattell, lead manager for major projects, said: “As part of this landmark restoration project, there is a comprehensive regreening strategy that will revitalise the wall so when work is finished it can again be enjoyed by all, including our local birds and wildlife.

“We have to start with the removal of some vegetation, but we are restricting this to the absolute minimum necessary to be able to start the repairs to the cliff face and Terrace which supports the Green Wall.

“We are determined to restore this amazing asset so that it’s healthier, more diverse and more accessible.

“Madeira Terrace will be a place to enjoy nature in the heart of our city for generations to come.”

The East Cliff wall protects the chalk cliff behind it from weathering and supports the elevated walkway. It also helps protect the A259.

The restoration of Madeira Terrace also requires strengthening and resurfacing of the cliff face on which plants are currently growing.

A comprehensive plan has been produced by the council to protect as much of the Green Wall as possible during the restoration work and to regreen the wall after the work is completed.

Advisory panel member James Farrell, of Brighton and Hove Building Green, said: “Madeira Terrace is a fantastic piece of Victorian architecture that is sadly in very poor condition. Its renovation will be immensely complex and one of the biggest challenges will be protecting and restoring the Green Wall, which is currently home to over 100 species of plants and is a designated local wildlife site.

“The council has used experts to produce detailed plans for the Green Wall, which has been discussed with the advisory panel and they have listened to our advice.

“It isn’t possible to renovate the Terrace without the removal of some vegetation, which will be restored, and without some disruption to wildlife.

“But if we get this right, a revitalised Green Wall will be a key part of restoring this special part of our city.”

The first group of arches are expected to reopen to the public in the summer of 2026.