AN MP has called for change on a congested coast road ahead of a major housing development.

Lloyd Russell-Moyle, MP for Brighton Kemptown, insists something needs to be done to make the A259 coast road fit for purpose once Peacehaven’s 350-home Lower Hoddern Farm project is brought to life.

He does not believe the development is viable because of the pressure it will put on the A259, and says plans must be in place so the area is prepared.

Mr Russell-Moyle said: “I do not think the infrastructure is sufficient – it has not been factored in.

“The problem is the junctions are poorly made.

“I would pedestrianise Rottingdean High Street.

“At the moment, any car or vehicle turning right blocks up a whole lane.

“That would free up a flow of traffic.

“The junctions need reformatting.”

The Lower Hoddern Farm development to the rear of Peacehaven was approved by Lewes District Council last month.

Barratt Homes, the housebuilder behind the scheme, has promised to build 143 homes with a further 307 at a later stage.

But their proposals have come under fire from residents, who believe the A259, which is gridlocked on many weekday mornings, cannot take any more congestion.

Mr Russell-Moyle agrees. He said: “I had a meeting with East Sussex County Council, who have acknowledged there are problems.

“Unfortunately, there are a lot of argumentative people at the council who think they know better than others.

“But, as with all problems, the first stage is admitting you have got a problem.

“I will be pushing East Sussex County Council.

“We need to see action and money to remodel these junctions.

“I will certainly continue to push that.”

Barratt Homes has been in talks with Brighton and Hove Buses about improving the 12X service that runs along the A259.

As part of a £1.2 million transport plan to try to tackle the issue, new homeowners would be given bus passes and cycle vouchers, with electric car chargers being installed to reduce pollution.

The cash is part of a community infrastructure levy.

East Sussex County Council is looking at ways of improving the roads and transport services.

A spokesman said: “The county council has been working with the district council and the developer to identify a number of measures to mitigate against the impact of the Lower Hoddern Farm development on the road network – particularly the A259.

“Measures include road and junction improvements, various pedestrian upgrades, bus service and bus stop improvements and a comprehensive travel plan to promote sustainable transport.

“In addition, the applicant has been successful in a bid for community infrastructure levy funding to improve the A259/Telscombe Cliffs Way junction and A259/Sutton Avenue junction.”