Businesses offer mixed reaction to cycle lane plans

Businesses have given a mixed reaction over plans to replace a lane of the A259 in Hove with a cycle lane and widened pavement.

A six-week consultation was launched on Monday to improve cycling infrastructure over the two-mile stretch between Fourth Avenue and Mill Road, in Fishersgate.

The scheme would be financed by three separate funds and grants, totalling £4.3m.

Some businesses raised concerns about deliveries, while others said the changes would make the area more pleasant for cyclists and pedestrians.

Eddie Riley, owner of ES Riley Upholstery in Victoria Terrace, said it was "a waste of time".

"You already have a cycle lane on the seafront. You certainly don't need another one," he said.

"I have to lift furniture to the nearest loading bay. It's impossible if I have to lift a settee. I can't carry that for 30 yards. It's impossible."

The scheme would include a two-way cycle lane, new pavements, bus stops, new crossings and junctions, as well as new loading bays and disabled parking bays.

The project would be funded by two Active Travel England grants, one which would be reallocated from the Marine Parade cycle lane scheme, and Brighton & Hove City Council's local transport plan funding.

Eamon Stack, owner of Kernel of Hove, said: "I'm all for it. I want to encourage cycling and reduce traffic.

"There's slight concerns about deliveries and some of our customers park outside the shop, but I think improving the street furniture can only be a good thing.

"The pollution from traffic is obvious from the shop, you see it and you can feel it. We have to do something about it."

Franco Zitoli, owner of Franco's Osteria Deli, said it was "a great idea".

"The cars can be quite speedy and it can feel quite unsafe for children," he said.

"The cycle lane will bring more business to the area. The traffic will be there regardless whether it's one lane or two lanes."

Trevor Muten, cabinet member for transport and city infrastructure, said the scheme would encourage people to cycle, while the expanded pavements would "make walking and wheeling safer and more accessible".

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