Brighton seafront project gets its official opening

A major redevelopment scheme in Brighton has had its official public opening.

The Valley Gardens project saw the completion of its third and final phase, which was marked on Friday by a ceremonial switch on of the Victoria Fountain in the Old Steine.

The £12.8m plan has seen part of the city's public spaces and roads revamped, culminating in the old aquarium roundabout leading to the seafront being replaced by a traffic light-controlled junction.

Brighton & Hove City Council leader, Bella Sankey, said: "Valley Gardens looks absolutely fantastic and it's been great to hear so much positive feedback from residents."

The final phase of the project has included 500 metres of separated cycle lane, more accessible and obstruction-free pavements, resurfaced roads, newly planted trees, modern street furniture and improved lighting.

"Walking down from St Peter's Church all the way to the seafront is a delight and this investment is just one of many ways we're improving the look and feel of Brighton and Hove," Sankey added.

"We are building a city fit for the future."

Despite some residents' groups warning that a new junction linking the seafront with Valley Gardens would cause "enormous disruption", Councillor Trevor Muten, Cabinet member for Transport and City Infrastructure, called the project "a real success".

He said: "Accessible and sustainable transport is a key to a growing city, whether you're on foot, using a wheelchair, on a bike, bus or in a car, you can get to where you need to be.

"But Valley Gardens is far more than a transport project."

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