Major Work Underway to Save Brighton's Victorian Seafront Arches

Urgent repairs begin

Work has started on the A259 King's Road arches in Brighton following surveys that found the Victorian structures required urgent attention to avoid the risk of collapse. The King's Road paddling pool on the seafront has been closed to allow contractors to carry out the restoration.

The project involves repairing damaged brickwork and concrete, replacing corroded structural elements and conducting essential maintenance. Current work is focused on the stretch between the bandstand and The Seahorse restaurant, which includes the paddling pool and play area.

Funding secured

Brighton and Hove City Council has committed £4 million towards a funding bid exceeding £41 million. The government has secured £22 million of this total.

The paddling pool has required repeated maintenance over recent years and has suffered surface repair issues. The council announced the closure in March, describing it as an opportunity to create a new and improved facility.

Future of the pool

Council leader Bella Sankey stated the pool will be replaced with another pool, describing the area as one of Brighton's treasures. MP Sian Berry had previously raised concerns about whether the new facility would include a pool.

Campaigners launched a petition calling for the facility to open during the summer holidays, arguing the pool is relied upon by financially struggling parents seeking free activities. The council said the closure was unavoidable, as equipment had already been delivered and opening during the break was not possible.

In August, the council began searching for a commercial partner to develop the site. Any proposals must include both a paddling pool and playground. The council anticipates a replacement facility could be delivered in 2027.

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