Work to begin on new aquarium junction

Work will continue next month to build a new junction linking the seafront with Valley Gardens.

Construction will begin in early January on the new traffic light-controlled junction to replace the old aquarium roundabout, as part of phase 3 of the Valley Gardens project.

With new pavements and separate, dedicated crossings, the new junction will make access between the seafront, Palace Pier and the city centre safer for pedestrians and cyclists.

The layout will see the removal of the roundabout as well as the traffic lights on the approaching roads, which currently work separately from one another. The new junction will use the latest smart technology and be linked to other nearby traffic lights, keeping everyone moving.

We’ll also be able to better control the traffic lights, helping traffic flow during busy periods.

Picture: The current look of the junction

The timing of the removal of the existing traffic islands has been deliberately chosen for early January, as this is the quietest time of year in terms of traffic and visitors.

The junction will be kept open during the day. There will be overnight work (from 8pm) for two weeks from Tuesday 6 January, with road closures in place.

Diversions will be in place and will be subject to change each night. Buses will divert via West Street and the seafront. Vehicles travelling on the A259 from the east will be diverted via Edward Street.

During the day, the area may be busier than usual, so drivers may wish to use alternative routes during the construction of the new junction.

Council officers will be available to answer questions on the scheme at Jubilee Library on:

• Thursday 8 January 4pm to 6pm
• Wednesday 21 January 3pm to 4:45pm

Valley Gardens 3 progress

Work on phase 3 of the Valley Gardens project began last November and is scheduled to finish next summer. So far, we’ve:

• Resurfaced roads including Old Steine, Castle Square and Pavilion Parade
• Begun creating new public spaces and cycle lanes near the Royal Albion Hotel
• Laid new pavements and constructed pedestrian crossings on the east side of Old Steine
• Begun work on new pavements and a cycle lane near the Royal Pavilion
• Started construction of a new public space between the Royal Pavilion and war memorial

Once finished, Valley Gardens 3 will mean better access for pedestrians, cyclists and visitors, new and accessible public spaces, including near the Pavilion and war memorial, better public transport links, trees and landscaping and sustainable outdoor infrastructure for events.

Read more about Valley Gardens 3.

Councillor Trevor Muten, Cabinet member for Transport and City Infrastructure, said: “The new aquarium junction is going to be a very positive change. It will make it much easier and safer for pedestrians and cyclists to cross and use smart technology to help the flow of traffic and public transport.

“We’re doing everything we can to minimise the disruption while the work takes place, scheduling it in early January and doing some of the work at night when there are fewer people on the roads.

“Phase 3 of the Valley Gardens 3 project will bring so many benefits to this busy part of the city, with new public spaces, improved transport links and better access for everyone.

“We’re entering the home stretch for this project now, and I’m really excited for the summer when we can all begin to enjoy the benefits."