A controversial bus lane along a busy coastal road has made the route safer, new accident figures have revealed.

The number of accidents along the A259 coast road has fallen since the Ovingdean to Telscombe Cliffs bus lane was introduced.

The bus lane has split opinion in Brighton and Hove.

Opponents argue it does nothing except increase congestion and lengthen car journey times while supporters view it as essential to promote sustainable transport.

According to statistics given to Brighton and Hove Bus Company managing director Roger French by Brighton and Hove City Council, the number of accidents has fallen.

In the two years before the bus lane, between August 2006 and July 2008, there were 42 collisions resulting in 62 casualties, eight with serious injuries and one death.

On average that works out as 21 collisions per year and 31 casualties.

The bus lane opened in August 2008 and from then until July 31 there were 12 collisions resulting in 20 casualties. None of the incidents was serious and there were no deaths.

Mr French said: “It's brilliant news."

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