A PEDESTRIAN subway has reopened following a complete refurbishment.

The Ovingdean residents association has unveiled the new and improved underpass that allows the public to walk under the busy road.

Works began back in April but the formal reopening was postponed due to the pandemic.

Volunteers came together to give both the walls and the floor a new lick of paint as it had become discoloured over the years.

Russell Smith, the head of the residents association, said: "It's been a wonderful community project where the community has truly come together and it was nice to see lots of people on their hands and knees including our local councillor.

"A lot of people were involved and the sponsorship was nearly all from those in the village, so I think it was a very worthwhile project and it's been received really well by the community."

The Argus: The pedestrian underpass at Ovingdean Beach has been refurbished and now officially opened.

A standout feature is the circular panels, designed by Jay Butler, on both sides through the length of the tunnel with pictures of particular animals, fish and birds.

The animals and sea life are ones that can be found either at Ovingdean Gap or Beacon Hill and are accompanied by short description of where they can be found.

The photos have been placed on top of composite watercolour illustrations creating striking depictions of the different species in their habitats.

These images have always proven popular with children as they learn more about the creatures and were a key part of the subway's makeover.

Organisers had been campaigning for the refurb for the past two years as the rusty materials and faded photos were showing their age.

The Argus: The pedestrian underpass at Ovingdean Beach has been refurbished and now officially opened.

The council removed the rusting materials and allowed for the team of volunteers to begin the process.

Each of the 29 individual circular panels are sponsored by local individuals which the residents association fundraised for.

A large silver plaque has also been placed at the end of the tunnel inscribed with a quote from Sir David Attenborough and a list of the creatures and their sponsors.

Money provided by the council also went towards the installation of a shower for beachgoers.

Independent councillor Bridget Fishleigh was personally involved in the renovation and attended the reopening. 

Conservative councillors Mary Mears and Joe Miller were also present and commended the volunteers on their efforts, as well as village celebrity Lynne Truss.