The UK government has announced £22 million in funding to replace deteriorating Victorian arches beneath Brighton's seafront, securing the future of King's Road and reducing the risk of
structural failure.
The investment, announced on 6 July, will fund the replacement of dozens of ageing arches that support the busy coastal road, which carries around 22,000 vehicles and nearly 1,500 cyclists each day. The works are intended to ensure the route remains safe and operational for at least the next 100 years.
King's Road is one of Brighton's main transport corridors, linking the city centre with major attractions including Brighton Pier, Brighton Beach and the i360 observation tower. Without the repairs, deteriorating infrastructure could eventually force road closures.
The regeneration project will also create improved commercial space beneath the arches, providing new opportunities for cafés, bars, galleries and other local businesses along the seafront.
Construction will be delivered in two phases. The first, covering the section between the Brighton Bandstand and the i360, is expected to be completed in 2027. The second phase, west of Shelter Hall, is scheduled for completion by 2029.
The £22 million government contribution comes from the 2025 Spending Review, while Brighton & Hove City Council will provide an additional £3.9 million towards the scheme.
The announcement follows separate government funding of more than £26 million over the next four years to help Brighton & Hove City Council repair potholes and improve road conditions across the city. Photo by Jamie Street jamie452, Wikimedia commons.
