PROPOSALS to bar traffic from Madeira Drive on the seafront, to the east of the Palace Pier, aren’t practical or realistic for most residents, businesses,visitors and the city as a whole.

It makes sense to return Madeira Drive to the mainly “access only” road that it was, regardless of party political viewpoints.

This is partly because a diverse range of activities are held here or are completed here, including the London to Brighton rallies, the Brighton Marathon, Pride, Brighton and Hove Albion celebrations and various music events.

There are at least five arguments in favour of keeping Madeira Drive open...

Firstly, the area is important for our heritage, with the Madeira Terrace and Arches forming an important covered walkway for residents and visitors once they are restored.

The more than £1 million in revenue from the parking bays here can be used towards the restoration of the Madeira Arches through environmental improvements for walkers, cyclists and other transport users.

Secondly, there should be plenty of space for pedestrians, cyclists, deliveries, taxis and others on this “access road” especially when the Madeira Terrace and Arches are restored.

Those drivers parking here will probably be happy to pay knowing that the funds are being used to restore the historic arches and terraces.

Walking and cycling can be encouraged and there would be even more space to do so once the arches are restored.

Thirdly, there needs to be some parking space on the seafront because of the diverse needs of disabled people, older people, carers and others who would like the opportunity to use this seafront area.

Fourthly, this council is surely breaching the spirit of the law in failing to respect the rights of people under the Equality Act and the Human Rights Act.

A diverse range of groups meet here or have events here and some local councillors seem to have little respect for their rights or opportunities.

Without public consent and public support, imposing impractical traffic schemes on this city can only make the situation worse.

Let’s hope that the “special” council meeting on Thursday is a lucky one for the coalition of individuals and groups who want to keep the area open.

Brighton and Hove City Council should listen to the large majority who have signed the petition on the council website to “Keep Madeira Drive Open”.

Rob Heale

Chatham Place Brighton