A259 Seaside and St Anthony's Avenue Bus Priority Scheme, Eastbourne
Project Overview
Current Status
Construction is expected to commence in Autumn 2026.
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Background and Overview
The A259 Seaside and St Anthony’s Avenue scheme forms a key section of the A259 through Eastbourne, providing access to local communities, businesses, schools and key destinations. The area experiences high traffic volumes, particularly during peak periods, which can affect bus journey times and reliability.
The A259 Seaside and St Anthony’s Avenue Bus Priority Scheme aims to improve bus journey times and reliability along this route, making bus travel a more attractive and dependable option for residents and visitors.
The scheme forms part of a wider programme of bus priority improvements in Eastbourne and supports the objectives of the East Sussex Local Transport Plan 4 (LTP4) and the East Sussex Bus Service Improvement Plan (BSIP). It is being delivered using Department for Transport (DfT) funding through the BSIP programme.
What are we doing?
Bus Priority Measures
- Introduction of a new eastbound bus lane between Windermere Crescent and Seaside Roundabout to improve bus journey times and reliability.
- Introduction of a new westbound bus lane between Langney Roundabout and Seaside Roundabout to improve bus journey times and reliability.
Pedestrian Crossing Improvements
- Introduction of new signal-controlled pedestrian crossings at key locations along Seaside and St Anthony's Avenue to improve safety and accessibility for people crossing the road.
- Upgrades to a number of existing pedestrian crossings to allow pedestrians to cross in a single movement and improve convenience for people walking.
Traffic Management Changes
- Changes to road layouts and lane arrangements along Seaside and St Anthony's Avenue to support the operation of the new bus lanes and improve the overall efficiency of the corridor.
- Changes to road markings and kerb layouts at key locations to improve traffic flow and support safer movement for all road users.
- Retention and adjustment of dedicated turning pockets and other highway features, where appropriate, to maintain access while supporting more reliable bus journeys.
Project Timeline
Current Status
Construction is expected to commence in Autumn 2026.
Stay up to date with the latest project progress and photos
Explore the full project timeline
Project Timeline
1. Feasibility and Option Development (2022 - 2024)
Initial feasibility work identified the need to improve bus journey times and reliability along the A259 Seaside and St Anthony’s Avenue corridor. Options were developed and refined during this stage.
2. Public Consultation (July - September 2023, July - August 2024)
An initial public consultation was carried out in 2023 to gather feedback on early proposals, including bus priority measures and changes to the road layout. Following feedback received during the 2023 consultation, the scheme proposals were revised before a further public consultation was undertaken in 2024. Approval to progress the scheme was granted by the County Council's Lead Member for Transport and Environment in November 2024.
3. Preliminary Design (2024 - 2025)
The scheme was developed through preliminary design, with updates made in response to consultation feedback and ongoing technical work.
4. Traffic Regulation Order (TRO) Pre-Consultation (December 2024 - January 2025)
An informal pre-consultation on draft Traffic Regulation Order (TRO) measures was undertaken to gather stakeholder feedback on proposals such as bus lanes, vehicular movements, loading changes and parking restrictions.
5. Traffic Regulation Order (TRO) Consultation (May - August 2025)
The formal Traffic Regulation Order (TRO) consultation was carried out to advertise the proposed changes and consider representations before progressing the scheme. Following the consultation process, including a re-advertisement of the TRO, the responses received were considered and a report was presented to the Planning Committee at the 15 October 2025 meeting. The committee resolved to proceed with the Traffic Regulation Order as advertised.
6. Detailed Design (2025 - 2026)
Following completion of the preliminary design stage, the project team progressed to undertaking the detailed design stage to support the development of the scheme to construction level, including final layouts and technical design.
7. Tree Consultation (May - June 2026)
A tree consultation was carried out regarding the proposed loss of one English elm tree on Seaside. Following the consultation, the Local Highway Authority approved the proposal to remove the tree on 3 July 2026. Replacement tree planting is proposed in partnership with Eastbourne Borough Council to help offset the loss.
8. Upcoming – Construction (2026 - 2027)
Construction is expected to begin in Autumn 2026 and refined timescales will be shared in due course. Timescales are subject to no additional issues causing delays to delivery.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) / Glossary
FAQs
The Project
What is the Eastbourne Seaside & St Anthony’s Avenue BSIP scheme?
The Bus Service Improvement Plan (BSIP) is a programme of improvements designed to make travel along Seaside and St Anthony’s Avenue in Eastbourne easier, safer and more sustainable. The scheme includes measures to improve bus reliability, support active travel and enhance accessibility for all road users.
Why is the scheme being delivered?
- The Eastbourne Seaside & St Anthony’s Avenue BSIP scheme will help make bus journeys quicker, more reliable and easier to use.
- The improvements are designed to reduce congestion-related delays and keep people moving around the town.
- The scheme will improve facilities for pedestrians and cyclists, supporting safer and more accessible journeys.
- Accessibility improvements will help make it easier for everyone to travel, including people with mobility needs, pushchairs or luggage.
- By encouraging public transport, walking and cycling, the scheme supports cleaner, more sustainable travel choices.
- Better transport connections will help people access jobs, education, healthcare and local services more easily.
Who is delivering the scheme?
The scheme is being delivered by East Sussex Highways (ESH), a partnership between Balfour Beatty Living Places and East Sussex County Council (ESCC).
Who is funding the scheme?
The scheme is being funded through East Sussex County Council's Bus Service Improvement Plan (BSIP) funding allocation, which was awarded by the Department for Transport (DfT) to support improvements to bus services and infrastructure across East Sussex. The funding is specifically allocated for bus improvement measures and cannot be used for other purposes such as general highway maintenance or unrelated transport projects.
How have these proposals been developed?
These proposals are based on thorough technical studies and road safety audits. They aim to strike a fair balance between the needs of all road users, including businesses, shoppers and public transport users, while supporting the wider objectives of the East Sussex Bus Service Improvement Plan, Local Transport Plan 4 (LTP4), and Eastbourne Borough Council’s Local Plan and Town Centre Action Plan.
East Sussex County Council are committed to working closely with the local community and businesses to ensure the scheme delivers benefits for everyone, and that any concerns are considered as the project progresses.
Has there been a consultation on the scheme?
Yes. Public consultation and stakeholder engagement have been undertaken as part of the development of the scheme. Feedback from residents, businesses and other interested parties has been considered alongside technical assessments, road safety audits and transport modelling in the development of the proposals.
Why are buses being prioritised in this scheme over other modes of transport?
The scheme supports the objectives of the East Sussex Bus Service Improvement Plan (BSIP) and Local Transport Plan 4 (LTP4) which aim to improve bus reliability and encourage more sustainable travel choices.
By reducing delays and improving journey time consistency, the scheme aims to make bus travel a more practical and attractive alternative to private car use, while still maintaining access for other road users.
How will bus users benefit from the scheme?
The scheme introduces bus priority measures designed to reduce delays caused by congestion and improve the reliability of bus services. By helping buses move more efficiently through busy areas of town and providing more consistent journey times, particularly during peak periods, the scheme aims to make bus travel a more attractive and dependable option.
The proposals target sections of Seaside and St Anthony's Avenue where buses currently experience delay, helping to improve journey time reliability and punctuality for passengers travelling through the corridor.
How will the scheme affect road users in the area?
The scheme includes bus priority measures, changes to parking arrangements, improvements to pedestrian crossings and revisions to some junction layouts along Seaside and St Anthony's Avenue. Some road users may need to adjust to changes in lane use and traffic movements through the area.
The proposals have been developed to improve bus reliability and accessibility while maintaining access for residents, businesses and other road users.
What impact will the proposed BSIP scheme have on congestion in the area?
Traffic and parking surveys undertaken in 2024 helped build an understanding of existing congestion and travel behaviour along the Seaside and St Anthony's Avenue corridor. This information informed a microsimulation model used to assess the proposed changes.
The modelling indicated that the proposed bus priority measures can improve bus journey times and reliability while allowing the wider highway network to continue operating effectively. The design has also been refined following consultation feedback to help minimise impacts on general traffic.
Will there still be enough parking available?
Parking surveys were undertaken in 2024 to understand current parking demand along Seaside. The results indicated that the proposed parking provision would be sufficient to accommodate the levels of parking observed within the scheme area.
The design has been refined to retain as much parking as possible while providing space for bus priority measures. In some locations, limited waiting restrictions are proposed to increase parking turnover and support access to nearby businesses and services.
How will pedestrian crossings change?
The scheme includes new and upgraded pedestrian crossings along Seaside and St Anthony's Avenue to improve safety and accessibility for people walking through the area.
Following feedback received during consultation, some informal crossing points and centre islands have been retained within the final design. The scheme includes new and upgraded crossings designed to make crossing the road easier and safer while minimising delays for buses and other road users.
How will school drop-off and pick-up be affected?
The scheme has been designed to maintain access to local schools while improving safety and accessibility for pupils, parents and other pedestrians.
Parking arrangements have been reviewed as part of the design process and the scheme seeks to retain as much parking as possible while providing space for bus priority measures. The scheme also includes improvements to pedestrian crossing facilities near local schools, while some existing crossing points have been retained following consultation feedback.
How will the scheme affect turning into side roads?
The scheme has been designed to maintain access to side roads while improving bus journey times and reliability.
Following consultation feedback, right-turn spaces have been retained at key junctions, including Northbourne Road and Southbourne Road. Traffic modelling indicates that vehicles will continue to be able to access side roads while allowing the wider network to operate effectively.
How will deliveries and servicing be accommodated?
Vehicles may enter the bus lane to load or unload where this is not otherwise prohibited. This includes delivery vehicles, trade vehicles and vehicles picking up or dropping off passengers.
Vehicles should only enter the bus lane where the loading or unloading activity is taking place and must leave when the activity has been completed. Vehicles may also cross the bus lane to access driveways and properties.
Bus lane restrictions will be enforced in accordance with the Traffic Management Act 2004. Where CCTV enforcement is used, recorded images are reviewed before any Penalty Charge Notice is issued. For more information about bus lane enforcement in East Sussex, please visit the ESCC Bus lane Enforcement web page.
Why aren't the bus stop build-outs simply being removed?
Bus stop build-outs provide additional space for bus shelters and waiting passengers and help buses rejoin traffic more efficiently when leaving a stop. In some locations they can also improve visibility at junctions, reduce pedestrian crossing distances and help retain nearby parking provision. These factors were considered when developing the final design.
The scheme does not increase the number of bus stop build-outs along the route. As part of the final design, one existing build-out will be removed to help accommodate the bus lane while retaining parking provision, while another will remain in place.
How will pedestrians benefit?
The improvements will help create a safer and more accessible environment through upgrades to crossings, footways and public spaces.
How will the scheme affect pavement widths and accessibility for pedestrians, including disabled people?
The scheme has been subject to technical design development and independent Road Safety Audits to help ensure that pedestrian safety and accessibility are appropriately considered.
In some locations there are localised changes to footway widths. The design has been developed to maintain suitable pedestrian space and support accessibility for all users, including wheelchair users, people with pushchairs and those with mobility impairments. Design options were assessed throughout the development process to balance the requirements of bus priority measures with the need to provide safe and accessible walking routes.
How have safety and accessibility been considered?
The scheme has been developed using technical assessments and independent Road Safety Audits to help ensure it operates safely for all road users.
Accessibility has also been considered throughout the design process. The proposals have been designed to support safe and convenient movement through the area while balancing the needs of pedestrians, cyclists, public transport users and motorists.
How will cyclists benefit from the scheme?
Cyclists will be permitted to use the bus lanes, allowing them to travel separately from general traffic for sections of their journey. This can help improve comfort and safety when travelling through the area. Cycling has been considered as part of the overall design to help balance the needs of all road users and encourage more sustainable travel choices.
Will taxis and private hire vehicles be permitted to drive in the bus lane?
No, the bus lanes will be reserved for buses and cyclists only.
Managing access in this way helps ensure that the bus lanes operate effectively, supporting reliable bus journey times and reducing delays.
How will bus lanes be enforced?
Bus lane restrictions will be enforced in accordance with the Traffic Management Act 2004. Where CCTV enforcement is used, recorded images are reviewed before any Penalty Charge Notice is issued. For more information about bus lane enforcement in East Sussex, please visit the ESCC Bus lane Enforcement web page.
Will emergency vehicles be permitted to use the bus lanes?
Yes. Emergency service vehicles will be permitted to use the bus lanes when responding to incidents or emergencies.
How will the scheme support the environment?
By improving bus reliability and supporting greater use of public transport, the scheme contributes towards wider objectives to reduce transport emissions and improve air quality over time.
Why is a tree being removed as part of the scheme?
To accommodate the approved road layout, including bus priority measures and the associated carriageway widening, one tree has been approved for removal. Alternative design options were explored to retain the tree, but these would have reduced available footway or parking space and impacted the effectiveness of the scheme.
Replacement tree planting is proposed to help offset this loss and maintain the area's green infrastructure. This will be carried out by Eastbourne Borough Council. The scheme has also been developed to minimise impacts on existing vegetation where possible and includes landscaping measures to help maintain and enhance the local environment.
What air quality monitoring is in place?
The scheme is not expected to result in traffic impacts significant enough to require a separate air quality assessment under current national guidance.
Air quality is monitored at representative locations across Eastbourne using a combination of continuous monitoring stations and diffusion tubes. These measure key pollutants of concern to health, including particulate matter, nitrogen dioxide and ozone.
There are two continuous monitoring stations in Eastbourne, located at Devonshire Park and Holly Place. Data from these sites is available to view online in near real time via the Sussex Air website.
In addition, Eastbourne Borough Council publishes an annual air quality report covering the whole town, which is also available on the Sussex Air website.
How will local businesses be affected?
East Sussex County Council recognises the importance of maintaining access to local businesses for customers, deliveries and servicing activities during both construction and operation of the scheme. Construction activities will be carefully planned to minimise disruption wherever possible.
The design has been refined following consultation feedback and includes parking arrangements intended to support customer access. In some locations, limited waiting restrictions will help increase parking turnover and maximise the availability of spaces for people visiting local businesses.
Construction
Where are the improvements taking place?
The Eastbourne St Anthony's Avenue and Seaside BSIP programme includes improvements in key locations between the junction of Seaford Road and the Langney Roundabout.
What improvements are being made?
Depending on the location, works may include:
New or improved bus lanes
- Road and junction improvements
- Traffic signal upgrades
- Road resurfacing
- Improved pedestrian crossing facilities
- Accessibility enhancements
- Improvements to cycling infrastructure
How long will the works take?
We’re currently planning on undertaking these improvements between Autumn 2026 and Spring 2027.
Construction programmes will vary depending on the location and phase of works. Information on timings and delivery phases will be shared with residents, businesses and other stakeholders ahead of construction. Information will also be available on the project webpages.
View the latest updates on the A259 Seaside and St Anthony’s Avenue Bus Priority Scheme in Eastbourne on the East Sussex County Council website.
View the latest updates on the Bus Service Improvement Plan schemes in Eastbourne on the East Sussex Highways website.
What will the working hours be?
For this scheme, we’re planning to be on site overnight between 7pm and 7am to minimise disruption to motorists and commuters.
More information will be shared with affected properties and businesses once dates and times are confirmed.
View the latest updates on the A259 Seaside and St Anthony’s Avenue Bus Priority Scheme in Eastbourne on the East Sussex County Council website.
View the latest updates on the Bus Service Improvement Plan schemes in Eastbourne on the East Sussex Highways website.
Will there be much noise?
Properties and businesses close to the carriageway may experience a temporary disturbance as work of this nature can be a noisy process and the affected parties may experience flashing lights and reversing sirens.
Wherever possible, we aim to keep noise to a minimum., Noisier activities are completed before 11pm to keep disruption to a minimum. Site associated noise will still be present after this time.
Road closures and traffic management
Will there be disruption?
Some temporary disruption is unavoidable while the works are carried out. Traffic management measures may include temporary traffic signals, lane closures or changes to traffic movements. We aim to minimise disruption wherever possible.
View the latest updates on the A259 Seaside and St Anthony’s Avenue Bus Priority Scheme in Eastbourne on the East Sussex County Council website.
View the latest updates on the Bus Service Improvement Plan schemes in Eastbourne on the East Sussex Highways website.
Will I still be able to access my property during construction?
Yes. Access to homes and businesses will be maintained wherever possible. If temporary restrictions are required for safety reasons, advance notice will be provided.
Will local businesses remain open during construction?
Yes. Businesses will remain open during construction unless otherwise advised. We will work closely with businesses to minimise disruption and maintain access where possible.
Will emergency services have access during construction?
We will liaise with emergency services throughout the works to help ensure access is maintained.
Communications and updates
Where can I find more information?
Further information will be published through East Sussex Highways and East Sussex County Council communication channels as the scheme progresses.
I have a question or concern. Who should I contact?
If you have a question about the scheme or would like to join the mailing list for updates, please contact East Sussex Highways at
Glossary
Scheme
The set of planned improvements being delivered, in this case the A259 Seaside and St Anthony’s Avenue Bus Priority Scheme.
A259
A key road that runs along the south coast, connecting towns and communities, including the section which runs through Eastbourne.
Bus Service Improvement Plan (BSIP)
A government-funded programme developed by local authorities and bus operators to improve bus services, including reliability, journey times, and passenger experience.
Feasibility
Early-stage work to assess whether a scheme is viable. This includes identifying problems, developing potential solutions, and considering impacts and constraints.
Preliminary Design
An intermediate design stage where initial proposals are developed in more detail, often incorporating feedback from consultation and technical assessments.
Detailed Design
The final stage of design where all technical details are completed, including layouts, materials, and construction requirements, ready for construction delivery on site.
Construction
The stage when the planned improvements are built on site. This may include roadworks and temporary changes to traffic or access while the works are completed.
Public Consultation
A process where members of the public, businesses, and stakeholders are invited to give feedback on proposed changes before decisions are made.
Traffic Regulation Order (TRO)
A legal document used by the local authority to manage how roads are used. TROs are required to introduce changes such as bus lanes, parking restrictions, or turning restrictions.
Traffic Regulation Order Pre-Consultation (Informal)
An informal stage carried out before the legal process, used to gather early feedback on proposed traffic regulation changes.
Traffic Regulation Order Consultation (Formal Consultation)
The statutory process where proposed Traffic Regulation Orders are formally advertised and the public can submit comments or objections.
Planning Committee
A committee of elected councillors who review specific proposals, including unresolved objections to Traffic Regulation Orders, and resolve to support or reject officer recommendations.
Tree Consultation
A consultation process to gather feedback on proposals affecting trees, such as removal or changes, including environmental considerations.
Road Space Booking
A process to coordinate and schedule roadworks to minimise disruption, ensuring that different works across the network do not conflict with each other.
Phasing Plans
Plans showing how construction will be carried out in stages to minimise disruption and maintain access during the works.
Bus Priority Measures
Changes to the road layout or traffic management designed to give buses priority over other vehicles, helping to reduce delays and improve journey time reliability.
Bus Lane
A lane reserved primarily for buses, helping them move more quickly through congested traffic.
Signal Timings
The programmed sequence and duration of traffic lights at junctions, which can be adjusted to improve traffic and pedestrian flow.
Kerb Alignment / Realignment
Changes to the position or shape of the kerb (edge of the road), often to improve access for buses, pedestrians, or other road users.
Turning Restrictions
Rules that limit where vehicles can turn (e.g. no right turn), used to improve safety and traffic flow at junctions.
Loading Restrictions
Controls on when and where vehicles can stop to load or unload, helping to reduce congestion and keep traffic moving.
Journey Time Reliability
A measure of how consistently a journey takes the same amount of time. Improvements aim to make bus journeys more predictable.
Want to know more?
General Enquiries
If you have any queries about the scheme or would like to provide feedback, please contact our contact centre on 0345 60 80 193 who will pass your query to the team or email:
Project Updates and Phases
Latest Progress Updates
This page will be updated regularly throughout construction to keep you informed on progress. Updates will include photos, phasing plans and a summary of the work completed, helping you see how the scheme is developing on site.