Disruption for Brighton motorists as A259 closure continues

Brighton and Hove City Council has said that it has been reviewing Britannia Hotels’ and their contractors’ work ahead of plans for reopening Kingsway, Brighton in front of the Royal Albion Hotel next week.

From Monday, the two lanes on the south side of the road will be reopened to westbound traffic only.

Councillor Trevor Muten, cabinet member for transport, parking and public realm, said: “I know this ongoing inconvenience is frustrating for residents and businesses, but until the urgent demolition work has been carried out to make the structure safe we can’t open more of the road.”

Work was completed today to demolish part of the Royal Albion Hotel (Image: Eddie Mitchell) Due to the position of the pedestrian island on the road outside the hotel,  the council has said there is insufficient space to install a contraflow which would allow traffic in both directions.

Eastbound traffic will continue to be diverted.

Cllr Muten added: “I’m pleased work has progressed enough so we can safety open the road to be used for the Brighton Half Marathon.

“It’s a brilliant event for the city and I want to thank the organisers for their cooperation and understanding over the last week.

“Following the half marathon, the road will be reopened to westbound traffic.

“We are continuing to push Britannia Hotels and their contractors to get both carriageways reopened as quickly as possible.

“We’ve been working closely with them and Historic England and the Health & Safety Executive to ensure public safety throughout.

“I want to thank residents, businesses and visitors for their understanding and patience as we work to restore access and get movement in the city centre back to normal.”