CHANGES to the Aquarium roundabout – one of Brighton’s busiest junctions, just in front of the Palace Pier – were the focus of discussions about the next phase of the Valley Gardens project.

Three designs for the junction were discussed at Brighton and Hove City Council’s Environment, Transport and Sustainability Committee on Tuesday.

The options include retaining the roundabout, replacing it with traffic lights and a hybrid option with a roundabout and traffic lights.

Councillor Pete West said that the junction was a complex one as it brings together the A23 and A259.

The National Cycle Route passes in front of the Palace Pier, which he described as a challenge for people to connect through to Valley Gardens.

Councillor West said that he was “looking for a strong proposal for cyclists through that space where at the moment you’re taking your life into your hands negotiating the roundabout”.

He said: “I hope for a hybrid and unconventional response.”

Oliver Spratley, a principle transport planner, said: “We are fully aware of the accident rate being the highest in the city and will endeavour to present those options.

“It is certainly a priority for us.”

Rottingdean Coastal Conservative councillor Joe Miller expressed concerns.

He said: “I am sceptical of some of the hybrid elements. The junction is similar to Rottingdean High Street and we know the issues there.

“I am sceptical about any option that does not involve having a roundabout.”

Councillor Lee Wares, the lead Conservative on the committee, highlighted how the first two phases of the project from St Peter’s Church down to Victoria Gardens would affect the junction.

Traffic modelling and surveys are taking place, showing how the junction is now and how the earlier phases will affect it.

He was also concerned about the traditional look of the area.

Councillor Wares said: “Being a Brighton native, I’m attached to certain things like lampposts and railings.

“I’m looking to see those elements retained.”

Phase one of the Valley Gardens project is expected to start in late summer.

The council plans a public consultation into the three proposed designs for the junction starting in October.

So far the total budget is expected to be £7.25 million, with £6 million from Local Growth Fund via the Coast to Capital Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) and £1.25 million from the council’s integrated transport budget.

A public survey is currently available on the council website at consult.brighton-hove.gov.uk/public/bhcc/env/old_steine_to_palace_pier