Active travel works to the A23 between Argyle Road and Preston Drove have installed a controversial 'floating bus stop', just a month after the Government halted their roll-out.
The A23 works began in June 2024, well before the pause on the controversial design was announced.
Floating bus stop designs mean pedestrians board and disembark directly from or to a cycle lane. They have faced strong criticism from disability campaigners due to accessibility issues, and last month the Government ordered an immediate suspension of their use.
Local transport minister Simon Lightwood made a statement to MPs stating the roll-out of floating bus stops would be paused. The minister referred to them as ‘problematic’ to people with visual impairments.
Transport for London also recently announced that it would halt the rollout of the stops across the capital.
Cllr Trevor Muten said: ‘Floating bus stops are common across the country but relatively new to most parts of Brighton & Hove so it’s important cyclists, pedestrians and bus passengers make themselves aware of the new layout, crossings and road markings.
‘We want everyone to enjoy the new spaces and improvements safely.’
The A23 scheme was funded by the Department for Transport (DfT)’s Active Travel Fund along with developer contributions and the council’s Local Transport Plan budget.
It saw the introduction of an upgraded cycle lane, a new controlled pedestrian crossing with an upgraded pedestrian island, and better access to local leisure facilities.
Cllr Muten, cabinet member for transport and city infrastructure, said: ‘The changes have made it easier for people to cycle and walk through this busy part of the city while better junctions and wider pavements have made it safer for all road users, including bus passengers.
‘Making our roads and pavements safer means we’re giving people more options to travel actively and sustainably.’
