Work begins on scheme to improve bus services in Newhaven

ESCC announced on Tuesday, September 1, that improvements to a section of the bus route along The Drove and Seaford Road are being carried out in three phases to minimise disruption.

The work is funded by the Bus Service Improvement Plan funding from Department for Transport.

ESCC said it aims to improve the consistency of bus services, while tackling congestion and improving the offer of bus services in the area.

Councillor Peter Griffith, ESCC’s lead member for transport and environment, said: “These measures will help improve the bus network in the area, providing a more reliable service for residents, reduce journey times and delays and, as a result, encourage a more sustainable alternative to car use. The Newhaven Denton Corner scheme will also improvement pedestrian and cyclist safety and improve visibility for road users and pedestrians.”

The first phase of the project, which started on Tuesday, is set to improve the Seaford Road, Mount Road and Avis Road areas. The council confirmed that traffic management would be in place while a new bus lane is constructed. New bus stops will be installed too and traffic signals will be improved.

After phase two is complete, work will begin on finishing the remaining bus lane improvements and work will be carried out on the surrounding space.

The council warned that the Mount Road bus loop will be temporarily closed for the final stage of the project. This will allow the completion of work on road connections, traffic signals, footways, cycle facilities and landscaping. The council also said traffic management and diversion routes will be in place throughout the project, with some overnight road closures for resurfacing work. Once confirmed, details about road closures, alongside more information about the work, will be published at live.eastsussexhighways.com/highway-schemes/denton-corner-bus-service-improvement-programme

An ESCC spokesperson said: “The measures at Newhaven Denton Corner form part of a wider package of transport investment designed give people greater confidence to choose the bus for everyday journeys. The BSIP programme is funded by the Department for Transport (DfT) awarded specifically for the delivery of bus service improvements.”

The improvements include the creation of a new bus interchange at Denton Corner between Denton Roundabout and Mount Road Service Road, as well as the introduction of new bus stops and passenger facilities within the interchange. Improvements also include new pedestrian and cycle facilities through the interchange. People can find out more about the Newhaven Denton Corner scheme and see a timeline of the project at www.eastsussex.gov.uk/roads-transport/roads/road-schemes/major-projects/bsip/newhaven-denton-corner/project-overview.