RESTORATION work on the crumbling Madeira Terrace has been delayed until 2023.
The 132-year-old structure on Brighton seafront has been blocked off to the public since 2012 and it was expected that work would have started by now.
A planning application for the 865 metre long arches was due to be submitted last summer, but the city council said that will now go in this spring.
The restoration will take place in phases, much like the original way the arches were built from 1890.
Phelim Mac Cafferty, leader of Brighton and Hove City Council, described the project as “complex” with a “wide range of issues and challenges” which need to be resolved.
He was responding to a written question to the full council from the Conservative group, which wants to know why there is further delay.
The Conservatives, who said the project was supposed to have started in 2021, said it should be treated as the “number one public works priority” in the city.
Cllr Mac Cafferty said: “It is essential that the correct contractors and professionals are engaged to progress the project and to ensure the project progresses effectively and support of key stakeholders is maintained.”
He said a design team of specialists was appointed in summer 2020, with consultation taking place with planning, the Design South East panel and various other stakeholders since then.
Due to the structure’s Grade II* listing, the development requires contractors with “specialist skills” to carry out the work.
Cllr Mac Cafferty said: “The current timeframe for the first 41 arches will see the planning application submitted in spring this year and we expect this to be determined by the autumn.
“The feedback from the market engagement has been that a two-stage procurement process will bring longer-term benefits, attract more bidders, and achieve a better price. The procurement is now expected to be completed at the start of 2023 and construction to start shortly after.
“Because this approach will take slightly longer than that originally proposed, the team are looking at the potential for preparatory and enabling works to start before the main contractor is in place.”
In 2020, the Madeira Terrace, Madeira Walk, lift tower and related buildings were added to Historic England’s register of heritage at risk.
The “at risk” status came just a year after Historic England upgraded the terrace from Grade II to Grade II*.
Steve Bell, Conservative group leader, said: “The Conservatives believe that the Madeira Terrace restoration work should be the number one public works priority in Brighton and Hove for this council, but sadly it is not.
“The news of yet another delay to 2023 will greatly frustrate residents and community groups who see other priorities such as Valley Gardens and cycle lanes taking precedence over the Madeira Drive restoration.
“Madeira Terrace is the jewel in the crown of Brighton’s heritage and its restoration would bring benefits to the city.”
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