Coastal business owners have embraced the major investment in the seafront, describing it as beneficial despite current difficulties.
This week, the Department for Transport pledged over £22 million to replace the arches beneath King’s Road in Brighton.
The scheme will improve stability on the route, which accommodates 22,000 cars and approximately 1,500 cyclists daily, amid growing worries about its structural condition.
Inspections revealed the arches require urgent replacement to prevent failure, which would shut the road and render the area unusable, Brighton and Hove City Council stated.
The funding, combined with £3.9 million from the council, will cover the arches spanning from the bandstand to The Seahorse, followed by the arches just west of Shelter Hall.
Due to the construction, the King’s Road paddling pool has shut for the season. The adjacent park and public conveniences will also be closed.
The council is presently evaluating proposals for an enhanced paddling pool and park.
Councillor Bella Sankey, the council leader, previously committed that the pool would be replaced with another facility.
Alex Coslin, employed at Gabriella’s Beach Shop adjacent to the play park and paddling pool, noted the business will cease operations while their arch undergoes work.
She anticipates the redesigned park and paddling pool. She mentioned that trade has suffered because the paddling pool has remained closed for the season.
She expressed that the impact on the business has been considerable. On busy days, customers would typically queue outside. Business has transformed completely, with fewer visitors to both her shop and the neighbouring cafe, which has reduced its opening hours.
Nevertheless, Ms Coslin observed the scheme will benefit the area long-term and she looks forward to the upgraded facilities.
She noted that things will improve in future and normal trading will resume. She praised the recent transformation of nearby premises, describing the shops as very attractive. The new facilities will be more contemporary and functional, and she believes they will prove far superior over time.
Another trader working close to the paddling pool, who wished to stay unnamed, reported that their enterprise had also suffered financially.
They noted that visitors arrive expecting the pool to be open, and discovering it closed disappoints them. While they comprehend the necessity of the arch work, the effect on local businesses has been substantial. They hope the project concludes as soon as possible.
They mentioned the scheme has been delayed repeatedly, with traders now informed work commences in September.
They expressed confusion about why the paddling pool remains shut when two months of peak season remain.
Both traders advocated for a canopy over the park, particularly during recent warm spells.
Councillor Trevor Muten, cabinet member for transport and city infrastructure, commented that the substantial investment in the King’s Road arches will protect this section of the seafront and establish improved premises for businesses there for years ahead. Options for a new and enhanced King’s Road paddling pool area, including the children’s play park, are under consideration. The council intends for this seafront section to meet future needs and be accessible to all, and will consult residents and businesses about its future.