Pedestrianise key Brighton shopping street, claims MP

A busy Brighton shopping street should be pedestrianised, according to an MP.

Simon Kirby, who represents Brighton Kemptown in Parliament, made the call to Brighton and Hove City Council after surveying businesses in the St James’s Street area.

The Conservative MP said he received hundreds of responses and the clear majority of businesses and residents (70%) favoured some form of pedestrianisation.

Mr Kirby said: “The area is such an important part of our city that it is important we make the best possible use of the unique and diverse character.

“Whilst issues such as access for residents and the routing of bus services would need to be considered, I believe pedestrianisation could offer many benefits to residents, businesses and visitors alike.”

Previously council officials had been against the idea due to the one way street being used as a major bus route.

Mr Kirby is suggesting the council trials the scheme between Easter and the bank holiday weekend at the end of May.

Local community activist Chris Cooke said: “It’s an idea I first suggested when we started the local action team last November. We want it to be pedestrian priority like New Road so as not to hinder the buses and deliveries. So far, most seem in favour of the idea.”

A council spokesman said: “We’d be interested in seeing Mr Kirby’s survey material.

“In principle we favour pedestrian priority measures where there is money to pay for it and we can be sure sustainable transport and good access can be maintained or enhanced in the area.

“We know that there are many different views on the matter. Lots of people depend on that street as a bus route so there are likely to be issues about where the buses would go.

“It would be important to hear from everyone, including the bus company and its passengers.

“So pedestrianisation there is not part of the local transport plans at present but we’re always open to views on the matter.”