Brighton: Businesses 'all been struggling' since start of red routes

Double red lines were painted in London Road and Lewes Road, Brighton, in April to tackle antisocial parking and improve traffic flow. Drivers who park or stop on the new lines will be caught by ANPR cameras and traffic wardens and receive a £70 fine.

After business owners raised concerns over deliveries and fines, Brighton and Hove City Council extended the six-metre long bay outside McDonald’s and Taco Bell to 12 metres to be able to accommodate the companies’ vehicles.

But on Tuesday, Labour councillor Trevor Muten, cabinet member for transport, parking and the public realm, heard from two traders who were still experiencing issues with the red routes.

Kamil Sharobi, 38, owner of Smokemart convenience store, said that he struggled to deliver stock to his shop because of the lack of parking.

“We are all struggling on a weekly basis," he said. "I’ll be getting a ticket every week now for my deliveries.

“I’m driving around for an hour to find a space. I parked in Rose Hill Terrace and lit a cigarette and was on the phone to my employee waiting for the loading bay to empty.

“I can’t do this. I appreciate you’re going to do something but do it as soon as possible.”

Mr Sharobi suggested removing the part of the pavement which was widened during Covid as this had caused bays to be lost. He said people still parked there anyway.

Richard Grills (Image: LDRS)Richard Grills, who owns Presuming Ed, on the corner of Francis Street and London Road, was concerned about receiving tickets and asked if he could appeal.

Councillor Muten said the location made it impossible to put a loading bay outside the café bar and the issues both businesses are facing require more creative solutions

“Where we have made changes we have done them quickly," he added. "I’ve heard clearly your concerns. We are looking into this.”

After an initial grace period, when warning letters were sent to drivers stopping on the red lines, fines are now going out to people.

Business owners and residents affected by the new red route can submit feedback by emailing parkingprojects@brighton-hove.gov.uk by Monday, September 30.