Looking back at Valley Gardens in Brighton over the years

The area, which stretches from St Peter’s Church past the Royal Pavilion to the Palace Pier, is currently in the third phase of a major revamp, which is due to be completed by next spring.

Valley Gardens lies to the east of Brighton’s Old Town which, until the mid-18th century, represented the extent of Brighton's built development.

Victoria Fountain(Image: The Argus Photographic Archive)

The flat area was undeveloped because it was considered too swampy. An intermittent stream known as the Wellesbourne ran from the South Downs beyond Patcham all the way to Pool Valley, where it discharged into the sea.

In 1792 to 1793, this stream was culverted by the laying of a wooden sewer under the Steine and the bricking over of Pool Valley. Another sewer was constructed in 1827 to 1828.

The building of the Royal Pavilion confirmed the fashionable status of the area and the Old Steine became a popular promenade.

What is happening with the Valley Gardens project?

Phase 3 of the Valley Gardens project started in November with the resurfacing of Castle Square.

The project has since seen the removal of the old traffic island in front of the Royal Albion Hotel and the installation of new crossings at St James’s Street.

Work has also included new paving on the eastern side of the Old Steine and created more space for pedestrians walking near Princes Street.

The gardens(Image: The Argus Photographic Archive)

Construction has also started on paving and a new cycle lane on the west side of the Old Steine next to the Royal Pavilion.

Once the work is complete, Steine Gardens will be re-landscaped with new grass and planting.

When complete the work hopes to reinvigorate the area at the heart of the city, providing residents and visitors with a safer and more enjoyable walk from St Peter’s Church down to the Palace Pier.

Nighttime carriageway resurfacing between Edward Sreet and the seafront is due to start on 12 October for two weeks. Dates are weather dependent and subject to progress.

Old Steine(Image: The Argus Photographic Archive)

The resurfacing work will move south between Marlborough Place and the seafront. Phased road closures and bus diversions will be in place from 8pm each night.

Work has also started on the southwest corner of the Old Steine footway to install new cabling for street lights. Buses will still be using the bus stops, with drop-off points moving depending on the working area.

On the west side alongside the Royal Pavilion, work has begun to lay new paving and install a new cycle lane.