Almost £8 million to improve Eastbourne and Seaford connections
East Sussex will receive almost £8 million from the Levelling Up Fund to replace Exceat Bridge. The ageing structure, located east of Seaford, will be replaced with a two-lane bridge.
Connecting the coastline
Built in 1870, the current bridge is not fit for purpose because it:
- is a bottleneck for traffic causing delays for cars and buses at peak times
- has poor pedestrian access
The bridge remains vital to Eastbourne and South Wealden. It is essential to movement and access between the coastal communities including:
- Seaford
- Newhaven
- Peacehaven
- Telscombe
- Brighton
Bridge improvements for all road users
Improvements to the bridge will include a new footway and crossing points.
This will let pedestrians safely reach:
- the visitor centre
- the country park
- local pubs
The bridge will become more accessible with:
- a new, wider footway on the south side of the bridge
- bus stop improvements
- better lighting
- dropped kerbs
Visitors will also get a new meeting place in front of the Cuckmere Inn that will provide:
- new viewing platforms
- more benches
- cycle racks
Better connections create a range of benefits
The new two-lane bridge will help to:
- boost the local economy
- improve air quality
- reduce congestion
Councillor Simmons, Lead Member for Economy at East Sussex County Council said:
This scheme is an important part of our work to improve journey reliability across our travel network, helping to support tourism, economic growth and connectivity between coastal communities.
A boost for the local environment
The surrounding environment is unique and ecologically sensitive so protecting the environment is important to the project.
The design ensures the bridge:
- supports local wildlife habitats
- reflects the natural landscape
Find out more about levelling up.