Reaction as work on Brighton seafront junction to begin soon.
Residents have shared their reactions as work to dismantle a coastal roundabout begins next month.
Last week, Brighton and Hove City Council confirmed that construction on the aquarium roundabout would start in January.
The work is part of phase 3 of the council’s Valley Gardens project, which includes a number of measures aimed at transforming the region.
The new seaside road arrangement will eliminate both the roundabout and the traffic lights on the approaching roads, which presently operate independently.
Many residents were quick to offer their thoughts on the alterations before construction began.
Some were relieved to learn that the roundabout will be removed, and they celebrated the influence it would have on access to the seafront.Work on Valley Gardens phase 3 began in November (Image: BHCC)
Calum McGregor wrote: “Looks wonderful; more space for people and much easier and safer cycling to the seaside. It’s a terrific idea to free up some space for people who don’t drive.
Those driving will be alright; simply wait for the red to turn green. Calvine Irvine added, “I think that looks pretty decent because I’ve always thought it’s a really bad crossing for pedestrians and very narrow when that bend is busy.” To get across, this is a much better layout.”
James Taylor agreed, adding, “Fantastic news!” Getting from one side of the roundabout to the other is currently a nightmare for pedestrians attempting to reach the city’s most popular tourist destination.
It’s excellent that individuals will finally be prioritised.” Others, however, were not as enthusiastic, with several describing the proposals as “confusing”. Kathy Chambers stated, “It’s an accident waiting to happen, and it looks totally confusing.” Karen Markwick added, “I think the existing roundabout is actually safer than this new layout.”
Harry Chapman questioned the need for alteration, writing, “It has operated effectively as a roundabout for almost a century.
“Why change it?” Tina and Bill Symmonds added: “Don’t drive in central Brighton anymore because we can’t afford to!
Despite being extremely cautious and alert, we received two citations for passing past two distinct bus gates with clearly bad signage.
“The proposed road configuration would result in greater fines due to the increased number of cameras. As a tourism-driven city, it is unwelcoming, and visitors will not return.”
Bridgit Fishleigh, councillor for Rottingdean and West Saltdean, was among those who expressed their opinions.
In a social media post, she expressed her concerns about the effects the changes will have on residents, visitors, and businesses, as well as the financial implications.
She stated, “Despite the protests of thousands of people and businesses, the doctor’s surgery on the Old Steine, and the numerous bus companies, to name a few, we have lost this war.
“Yes, the neighbourhood will look nicer with fresh vegetation, larger pavements, new bus shelters, benches, and bike lanes, but it will still be congested.
“The financial cost is £12.8 million. £6 million from a central government grant, a £5 million loan from the council, and £1.8 million from council coffers that could and could have been spent on potholes, road resurfacing, and pavement repairs.”
Councillor Trevor Muten, cabinet member for Transport and City Infrastructure, previously stated that the new roundabout will be a “positive change” with the council aiming to reduce disruption.
Read more on Straightwinfortoday.com
Comments are closed, but trackbacks and pingbacks are open.