People are excited about plans to revive a 101-year-old arcade.

The Imperial Arcade in Western Road, Brighton, was purchased by Moretons Investments which is now in the early stages of planning for its redevelopment.

The developers, who are based in the city, said they hope to renovate the once "thriving hub for footfall" into an "exciting commercial space" with luxury flats above.

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Since the news was announced, Brighton residents have been thrilled.

One resident Ruth Nguyen-Seltzer said: "Hope they do it justice - arcades can be so beautiful if developed correctly."

Andrea Mansell said: "At last. It was once lovely."

Another resident, Anita Lower, said: "Be fantastic to see it come to life again."

Ann Jakeman-Turner also said: "About time. It has so much potential in the right hands."

The plans for the arcade, which has been lined with empty shops for years, also left members of the Brighton community feeling nostalgic.

Duncan Macphee said: "Used to love going to Gamleys as a child in the 80s.

"So sad to see such a wonderful arcade in such a terrible state."

Lesley O'Neil, who used to work in the arcade around 40 years ago, said: "I remember working in the hairdressers in the 80s, think it was called the Greenhouse. It was a lovely arcade full of cafes and shops."

Another resident, Rob Hayter, said: "I bought all my Action Man gear in that Gamleys in the 70s.

"They had a fabulous selection of stuff and loads of Airfix models and soldiers. It was my favourite shop. Glad the arcade is getting a revamp."

The Argus: Gamleys was a popular toy shop in the arcade in the 1980s

Michael Blencowe, director of Moretons, said: “Moretons Investments are thrilled to embark on this journey and excited about the positive impact it will have on consumers and residents alike. 

"We aim to breathe new life into the Imperial Arcade, making it a vibrant venue for the entire community to enjoy once again.

“Once a prime space for boutique retail, Imperial Arcade has unfortunately experienced a decline over the years.

"However, with Moretons Investments, a Brighton-based property investor and developer at the helm, we are eager to revitalise this piece of Brighton real estate."