Yesterday, February 21, it was announced that the Royal Albion Hotel was at risk of collapse.
The building was gutted by fire in July 2023 and had to be partially demolished to ensure public safety.
Now, the A259 Kings Road has been partially closed near the site in both directions while Britannia Hotels makes the structure and its scaffolding safe.
Britannia has never revealed its plans for the building, which has been derelict since the disaster.
The A259 is currently closed near the hotel (Image: Sussex News and Pictures) In July 2024, The Argus revealed that, at that stage, Britannia had not paid anything towards the demolition organised by Brighton and Hove City Council which cost more than £1.7 million.
Councillor Jacob Taylor, deputy council leader and lead member for finance, said: “It’s disappointing that they haven’t been more public in how awful it is and how it has affected residents.
“I haven’t seen them really show that they understand the importance of the history of the hotel.
READ MORE: In pictures: Seafront road closed as hotel ‘at risk of catastrophic failure’
“It’s disappointing to see nothing moving and I’m not sure Britannia get how important it is to residents.”
Sian Berry, MP for Brighton Pavilion, has now written to both Britannia and Brighton and Hove City Council to urge action and transparency.
Brighton Pavilion MP Sian Berry is calling for action (Image: Jonathan Brady/PA Wire) Ms Berry said: “It’s approaching two years since fire engulfed the Royal Albion Hotel.
“The priority has to be public safety and for any urgent works to be completed, but residents are understandably asking why progress is so slow.
“I’ve written to both the council and Britannia, and stressed the need for clear information about timeframes and action is needed.”
The A259 Kings Road is currently closed between the Aquarium roundabout and East Street. Pedestrian and cycle access remains in place.
National Express buses will stop at the southwestern corner of the Old Steine rather than Pool Valley.
Motorists should follow road signs for diversion routes.
Britannia has been approached for information.
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