THE latest phase of Eastbourne’s town centre improvement scheme has been completed, extending the pedestrian route between the railway station and seafront, according to East Sussex County Council.
Terminus Road between Bankers’ Corner and Marks & Spencer has been pedestrianised, while two-way traffic has been introduced on Bolton Road and Langney Road.
The works aim to make walking through the town centre safer and improve access to public transport. They include new paving, trees and planters, additional seating, cycle parking and upgraded street lighting.
This phase was funded by the Local Growth Fund, Active Travel England and East Sussex County Council.
Cllr Peter Griffiths, the county council’s lead member for transport and environment, acknowledged the disruption caused by the project.
He said: “These works have been considerable and not without their difficulties. I was delighted to see the town centre fully reopened with a new, modern feel, when I visited on Tuesday.
“This makes it easier and safer for people to access the town centre, will help encourage more visitors to Eastbourne and benefit the local economy.
“The extent of this scheme has meant there has been inevitable disruption over an extended period of time, but the result is a vastly improved town centre.”
The completed works follow the Victoria Place phase, which pedestrianised Terminus Road between Grand Parade and Seaside Road. That section was funded through the Government’s Levelling Up Fund, secured by Eastbourne Borough Council.
Cllr Colin Swansborough, the borough council’s cabinet member for enterprise, thanked businesses affected by the works.
He said: “The improvements from the station to the seafront will greatly enhance the experience of people visiting the town centre.
“Above all, I must thank the many businesses for their patience as this important project was completed. I’m pleased that we were able to support those that experienced disruption by providing access to business rate relief.”
The first phase of the wider scheme was completed in 2015, coinciding with work at the Enterprise Centre and including improvements to the town’s transport hub.
