A259 Upperton Road / Station Parade Bus Priority Scheme, Eastbourne
Project Overview
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
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. Replacement tree planting is proposed 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.
Progress Updates
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.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
FAQ
The Project
What is the Eastbourne Station BSIP scheme?
The Bus Service Improvement Plan (BSIP) is a programme of infrastructure improvements designed to make travel around 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 Station BSIP scheme is intended to 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 is intended to improve facilities for pedestrians and cyclists, supporting safer and more accessible journeys.
- Accessibility improvements are intended to 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.
Why are bus priority measures needed in addition to traffic signal improvements?
Traffic signal improvements, such as adjusting the timing of traffic lights to help traffic move more efficiently through junctions, have been considered and form part of the overall scheme improvements. 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 indicated 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 post construction?
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.
How will pedestrians benefit from the scheme?
The improvements are intended to help create a safer and more accessible environment through upgrades to crossings, footways and public spaces.
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?
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 assessed against relevant accessibility guidance. The scheme has been subject to technical design development and Road Safety Audits to help ensure pedestrian safety and accessibility are appropriately considered.
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 been considered throughout the design process, with the proposals 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.
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?
The Council recognises the important role local businesses play in the town centre and has engaged with businesses throughout the development of the scheme.
The scheme is intended to improve accessibility and public transport connectivity within the area, helping people reach businesses and key destinations while maintaining access for customers, deliveries and servicing activities.
Construction
Where are the improvements taking place?
The Eastbourne Station BSIP programme includes improvements in key locations, including:
- Eastbourne Station area
- Upperton Road
- Station Parade
- Terminus Road
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 this improvement 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 Upperton Road / Station Parade 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?
We’re planning to be on site during daytime hours, 7:30am – 5:30pm.
Resurfacing works will be carried out at night and are scheduled for the final stage of the scheme.
More information will be shared with affected properties and businesses once dates and times are confirmed. This will also be shared via the website.
View the latest updates on the A259 Upperton Road / Station Parade 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. During overnight works, 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.
More information on these works, including phasing and any diversion routes can be found online:
View the latest updates on the A259 Upperton Road / Station Parade 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
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 (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 Consultation)
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: