RESIDENTS are being urged to have their say on plans for new cycling and walking networks, including potential changes to a major coastal road.

A consultation on the East Sussex Local Cycling and Walking Infrastructure Plan (LCWIP) began on Friday, and runs until Friday, December 11.

The plan includes proposals for cycling and walking networks, with potential routes and maps outlined for Newhaven, Lewes, Eastbourne, Hailsham, Bexhill and Hastings.

Cycling, walking and access groups were involved in the development of the plan, as well as district and borough councils.

Twenty five potential cycle lane schemes have been outlined within a network plan to connect Peacehaven, Newhaven and Seaford, alongside smaller networks within each town for access to schools, shops and other facilities.

Cycling and walking charity Sustrans, which helped to develop the LCWIP, has made recommendations for an improved 5.5km cycle route along the A259 South Coast Road from Brighton through Peacehaven.

The Argus: A map identifying primary and secondary cycle routes through Peacehaven, as well as the South Coast Road, which has been highlighted for improvements by Sustrans. Source: Sustrans/Ordnance SurveysA map identifying primary and secondary cycle routes through Peacehaven, as well as the South Coast Road, which has been highlighted for improvements by Sustrans. Source: Sustrans/Ordnance Surveys

In a supporting document, the charity states: “The A259 South Coast Road is a busy and congested corridor and the major source of severance for mobility in Peacehaven.

“Providing a high quality link that allows safe movement both along and across this road will significantly improve Peacehaven for active travel.”

Recommendations include widening the shared use provision to at least three metres to meet Department for Transport standards.

The charity has recommended an east and west cycle facility is installed along the length of the road with a stepped track on either side, which could be created from “existing footway space, road narrowing and a rationalising of parking”.

Secondary routes have also been identified for improvements, including the 3km coastal route and the existing National Cycle Route along Arundel Road, which is described as “narrow and used as a rat run, creating conflict” by Sustrans.

East Sussex county councillor Claire Dowling, lead member for transport and environment, said: “Walking and cycling not only improves people’s health and wellbeing, it can help protect the environment and improve air quality.

The Argus: Cllr Claire DowlingCllr Claire Dowling

“Some people have been able to rethink how they travel since the beginning of the Covid-19 pandemic with cycling and walking becoming more of an option. We’re keen to put in place infrastructure to support the opportunity to change habits and enable others to find more active and healthy ways to travel.

“It’s vital people take this opportunity to comment and help us create a plan that supports active travel and understands the needs of local communities.”

The plan relies on the council securing external funding to build upon the £23 million already secured through its local transport capital programme.

To view the plan and take the online survey, visit the ESCC consultation page.