RADICAL new plans which could completely reshape the centre of Brighton are to be discussed by a special council meeting.

On October 9 a council committee will be asked to choose from a number of plans for the area around Old Steine as part of the Valley Gardens redevelopment project which is seeking to rejuvenate the centre of the city.

These could include scrapping the roundabout to the north of Brighton Palace Pier and replacing it with a junction, as well as improving pedestrian access and installing a seperate cycle lane.

The area under review currently has the highest collision rate in the city, and has seen 124 collisions over five years, 23 of which resulted in serious injury.

It is hoped that alterations, which could also create a bus loop seperate to the main road, will improve traffic flow and reduce accidents, as well as encouraging pedestrians to make use of the green spaces in the area.

Chair of the Environment, Transport and Sustainability Committee, Councillor Gill Mitchell, said: “This is a significant opportunity to revitalise the Old Steine to Palace Pier area by improving the transport and public realm infrastructure.

“We want to make cycling, walking and public transport more attractive and viable options of transport, as well as improving the landscape to create an attractive, sustainable and safe green space.

She added that given the rate of accidents in the area, especially involving cyclists, there was an urgent case to improve the layout of the roads.

She also highlighted how if well-handled, the rejuvination project could improve tourism to the city

She said: “The area is also one of the main arrival points into the city and the redesign will improve and enhance the quality of the environment to reflect the city’s status as a key visitor destination.”

If approved by council, the plans will then enter a public consultation phase lasting from October 15 to November 25, where businesses and residents can offer their view on the plans.