CRUMBLING seafront arches are set to receive a £4.5 million boost – enough to “immediately fund the next two stages of work".

Madeira Terraces on Brighton seafront have been blocked-off to the public since 2012.

Since then, campaigners have fought for the restoration of the Grade II listed, 865 metre-long structure currently decaying behind a metal fence.

But, after millions more pounds were secured for the restoration project at a Brighton and Hove City Council budget meeting, a politician campaigning for their revival says there is “no reason” to not get started immediately.

“This would provide a focus for the city post-Covid, restore civic pride and create jobs,” said Conservative finance spokesman, councillor Joe Miller.

The cash injection to “turbo-charge” refurbishment of the arches was agreed at the year’s budget meeting on Thursday evening.

Money has been set aside to finance borrowing for the project under fixed, low interest rates.

The proposal from the Conservatives – which received cross-party support – has meant another £4,535,000 has been added to the restoration pot.

The cash-boost means there is now about £12,000,000 available towards restoring the 150 arches.

Cllr Miller said there is enough money to fund the first two phases of regeneration.

Phase one – already funded – includes the restoration of 41 arches.

Phase two includes the restoration of a further 39.

Cllr Miller said: “This is hugely important for the city bounce-back and recovery.

“The terraces have been neglected by previously administration for over ten years and, quite simply, something had to be done to restore the pride and heritage in our city.”

The money has been welcomed by campaigners, who personally thanked the Cllr Miller for his efforts.

Jax Atkins, from the Save Madeira Terraces campaign, said: “He has done really well and it is great the other councillors agreed.

“I’m very happy with the extra money, but only if it is actually going to be used – nothing much has happened so far.”

When asked when she thought the work should start, she said: “As soon as possible”.

Last year, the terraces were added to the national list of "at risk" heritage sites.