A259 Upperton Road / Station Parade Bus Priority Scheme, Eastbourne
Project Overview
Current Status
Construction is expected to commence in Autumn 2026.
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Background and Overview
Upperton Road and Station Parade form a key section of the A259 through Eastbourne, providing access to Eastbourne Railway Station, the town centre and nearby businesses. The area experiences high traffic volumes, particularly during peak periods, which can affect bus journey times and reliability.
The A259 Upperton Road / Station Parade 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 Wharf Road and Eastbourne railway station to improve journey time reliability.
- Changes to lane configuration, including converting a section of the A259 between Hartfield Road and The Avenue to buses and left-turning traffic only, to reduce delays caused by conflicting movements.
Bus Stop Improvements
- Amendments to the existing bus layby alongside Cuckmere House to improve access for buses entering and leaving stops and to reduce delays when rejoining traffic.
- Realignment of the kerb to allow buses to pull in parallel with the bus stop and to improve accessibility for passengers boarding and alighting.
Traffic Management Changes
- Changes to loading and unloading arrangements on parts of Station Parade and Upperton Road to free up road space and improve traffic flow.
- Retention of existing right-turn restrictions onto A259 Upperton Road from Hartfield Road and the Enterprise Shopping Centre car park, to reduce delays and improve safety at junctions.
- Enforcement of the existing U-turn restriction at The Avenue junction through new signage to reduce conflicting movements and improve traffic flow.
- Minor changes to the kerbline near Station Roundabout to reduce vehicle speeds and improve safety.
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 corridor near Eastbourne Railway Station. Options were developed and refined during this stage.
2. Public Consultation (July - September 2023)
A public consultation was carried out to gather feedback on early proposals, including bus priority measures and changes to the road layout.
Following consultation, approval to progress the scheme was granted by the County Council’s Lead Member for Transport and Environment in January 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 turning restrictions.
5. Traffic Regulation Order (TRO) Consultation (May - June 2025)
The formal Traffic Regulation Order (TRO) consultation was carried out to advertise the proposed changes and consider representations before progressing the scheme. The responses received during the consultation were considered at the 10 December 2025 Planning Committee, which agreed that the Traffic Regulation Order should proceed, with some amendments to the proposals.
6. Detailed Design (2025 - 2026)
Following completion of the preliminary design stage, undertaking the detailed design stage supported 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 silver birch tree on Upperton Road. Following the consultation, the Local Highway Authority approved the proposal to remove the tree on 3 July 2026.
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
What is the purpose of this scheme?
To improve bus journey times and reliability along Upperton Road and Station Parade, while enhancing safety and accessibility for all road users.
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, and Eastbourne Borough Council’s Local Plan and Town Centre Action Plan.
We 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.
How will the scheme improve bus journeys?
The scheme introduces bus priority measures designed to reduce delays caused by congestion and improve the reliability of bus services. By providing more consistent journey times, particularly during peak periods, the scheme aims to make bus travel a more attractive and dependable option.
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.
Why not just improve traffic signals instead of introducing a bus lane?
Traffic signal improvements have been considered and form part of the overall scheme. While signal optimisation can improve traffic flow, bus priority measures are also needed to provide consistent and reliable journey times for buses, particularly during periods of higher demand. The scheme combines both approaches to deliver the greatest overall benefit.
How will the scheme affect road users in the area?
The scheme includes changes to lane layouts and turning movements, which may change how vehicles travel through the area. Drivers may need to adjust to revised lane use, such as new turning restrictions and bus priority lanes.
What impact will the proposed BSIP scheme have on congestion in the area?
Traffic surveys undertaken in August and September 2024 helped build an understanding of existing congestion and travel behaviour in the area. This data informed a simulation model of traffic movements, used to assess the proposed changes.
The modelling focused on key routes and junctions and indicates that the proposed bus priority measures are expected to improve journey times for both buses and general traffic during peak periods.
Will access to car parks and businesses be maintained?
Yes, access to car parks, businesses and key destinations will be maintained. The scheme has been designed to ensure that vehicles can continue to enter and exit these locations safely.
Vehicles will still be able to cross the bus lane where required to access properties and car parks, with appropriate road layout and traffic management measures in place.
Why are loading and turning restrictions being introduced?
These changes help create the space needed for bus priority measures and support more efficient traffic flow through the area.
By reducing conflicts between vehicles—such as turning movements and stopping for loading—these measures help minimise delays, improve journey time reliability for buses, and support safer and more consistent movement for all road users.
Where will delivery drivers stop if loading restrictions are introduced?
The scheme has been designed to minimise disruption to businesses and maintain access for deliveries. While loading restrictions are proposed on the north side of Station Parade to support bus priority, existing loading bays on St Leonard’s Road and Southfields Road will remain available as suitable alternatives for businesses receiving deliveries.
Why is a tree being removed as part of the scheme?
To accommodate the approved road layout, including a new eastbound bus lane, changes to the carriageway width are required. One tree will be removed as it lies within the footprint of the necessary highway works and is located close to the kerb. Replacement tree planting is proposed to help offset this loss.
Design options were explored to try to retain the tree, but these would have introduced safety concerns or reduced the effectiveness of the scheme.
Will pedestrian access change?
No, pedestrian access will be maintained. Existing staggered pedestrian crossings at the A259 / The Avenue junction and at Station Roundabout will be retained, with minor amendments to crossing points on Southfields Road and Grove Road.
How will the scheme affect pavement widths and accessibility for pedestrians, including disabled people?
The scheme has been subject to technical design development and a Road Safety Audit to help ensure that pedestrian safety and accessibility are appropriately considered.
In some locations, there are localised changes to footway widths. While the formal footway is reduced over a short section, the overall pedestrian environment has been considered against relevant accessibility guidance.
How does the scheme affect cyclists?
Cyclists will be permitted to use the bus lanes, providing space that reduces the need to mix with general traffic. 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.
Wil 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. The use of bus lanes by other vehicle types can be reviewed in the future if appropriate, based on how the scheme performs in practice.
What will disruption should be expected during construction? Will roads be closed?
A construction programme will be developed and shared in advance, including details of the phasing of works. While some temporary traffic management measures may be required, including possible lane restrictions or short-term road closures, advance warning will be provided. Clear signage will be in place on site to help minimise disruption and keep road users informed.
What air quality monitoring is in place?
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.
Will the scheme be monitored after it is built? How will we know the changes have helped?
The scheme will be monitored after it is completed. Monitoring and evaluation will include bus journey times (including passenger time savings), punctuality and passenger numbers to assess whether the intended benefits have been achieved. We will also update the value for money assessment of the scheme.
Glossary
Scheme
The set of planned improvements being delivered, in this case the A259 Upperton Road / Station Parade 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 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 (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 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 make recommendations or decisions.
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 the East Sussex Major Projects and Growth team:
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.