An already over-budget link road is set to receive another £2.9 million of public money.

The controversial Bexhill to Hastings link road, set to open later this year, has already cost the public more than £110 million.

However, under new proposals put before East Sussex County Council, the project could get another £2.9 million to cover weather and archaeological-related delays last year.

Councillors will vote on whether the money should be agreed when they meet to discuss the local authority’s budget next month.

The link road has been in the pipeline for many years, with work finally starting on the stretch in December 2012.

When complete, the three-and-a-half mile road will link the outskirts of Bexhill and Hastings in a bid to ease congestion on the A259.

The road has split public opinion from the outset, with some protesters delaying work by digging tunnels along the route and camping out in trees.

Members of the Combe Haven Defenders group have opposed the building of the road from the start.

Gabriel Carlyle, from the group, said: “This latest cost increase, of almost £3 million, comes just after the county council has decided to slash bus services.

“We are told that these cuts – which will hit the poorest and most vulnerable – cannot be avoided, yet when it comes to the link road, there is apparently a bottomless pit of money available.”

Council officers made clear the need for the extra money in the full council meeting papers.

They said: “The latest estimate of the total cost on the Bexhill link road scheme is forecast to increase by £2.9 million above and beyond the contingency that had been set aside.

“The reasons for this are due to increased archaeological investigations required during the construction of the works and weather-related delays.

“This does mean this complex and significant project will be opening later in the year.

“It should be noted there remains a risk of further increases in costs in the event of, for example, poor weather conditions or other risks that may occur.”

The road was due to open in May but has now been put back. A new date has yet to be confirmed.