Business leaders in East Sussex are drumming up support for plans for a £19 million road scheme ahead of a public inquiry.

The investigation will determine whether the Highways Agency should go ahead with plans to redesign Beddingham level crossing, near Lewes.

The proposal is to replace the crossing on the A27 between Brighton and Eastbourne with a bridge over the railway.

The road would be widened to a dual carriageway and work could start next year.

However, the project has been opposed by the A27 Action Group. It says money would be better spent on improving public transport.

But Eastbourne Chamber of Commerce is asking people to register their support before next month's public inquiry.

Leaders say the bridge is vital to the economic success of Eastbourne and surrounding parts of East Sussex.