Transformation of New Road set to begin

Work is starting next week to remove the wooden benches that are at the end of their life on New Road. This is part of wider plans to improve safety, accessibility and the overall look and feel of the area.

New Road is a busy route linking the city’s shopping areas with some of the key cultural destinations including the Royal Pavilion, Brighton Dome and Theatre Royal. It’s home to numerous cafes, restaurants and bars, as well as being the focal point for festivals and events.

When the space was enhanced in 2007, New Road was England’s first shared space street where cars and pedestrians coexist. Unfortunately, parts of the road are in need of improvement and the area is seeing an escalation in anti-social behaviour.

The council is working with city partners including the police, businesses, community and health partners to explore opportunities for transforming the look and use of the space as a way to ensure the area is a safe, accessible and welcoming public space.

Councillor Jacob Allen, Cabinet member for Customer Services and Public Realm said: “We’ve listened to business and residents, and we recognise there’s a number of issues to be addressed around New Road.

“This is a central part of the city connecting some of our key tourist attractions.

“The benches are old and have reached the end of their life. Removing them is the first step in wider plans to improve the look and feel of the area and address the anti-social behaviour.

“We’re also working with partners to reimagine the way the space is used and enjoyed in the future. This could include markets, street installations or more commercial activations.

“This will pave the way for real transformation as the Royal Pavilion Garden begins to be restored to its regency splendour from the end of next year.”

The benches, which are at the end of their life, will be removed in the week beginning 29 September.

Temporary Heras fencing will be in place so the benches can be removed safely without the need to close the road. It’s expected to remain in place until the end of October, unless further structural issues are identified.

No disruption to access of the road is expected.

Alternative seating remains available nearby for anyone who needs it, elsewhere on New Road, in Jubilee Square and in the Royal Pavilion Garden.

Ongoing work to tackle anti-social behaviour

The removal of the benches also supports efforts to tackle anti-social behaviour which has escalated in the area.

Sussex Police set up a community policing hotspot on New Road in October 2024 to tackle anti-social behaviour and violence, through increased police patrols and direct engagement with the people using the space through the engagement pod.

The council works with city partners to provide services and additional support for vulnerable adults as laid out in our ‘community safety and crime reduction strategy’.

The timing of removal ties into the end of the Day Safety Marshals.

Chief Inspector Simon Marchant said: “The extra hotspot police patrols in New Road have been effective at deterring antisocial behaviour. This change, alongside the work of multi-agency partners will help to further transform the use of the space.

“We are committed to providing an ongoing presence in the area and engaging with the public and local businesses. For anyone who experiences antisocial behaviour in this area, or anywhere else in the city, it’s important to report it so services can target resources effectively, support those who need it and keep the city safe.”

If you see or experience any form of hate or anti-social behaviour, please report it.