A SEAFRONT road that was closed to cars during the lockdown could be reopened with the old cycle lane moved off of the promenade.

Madeira Drive was closed to traffic to allow more room for walking and cycling but the move proved highly controversial with motorists.

Traders in the road said their businesses were struggling as customers could no longer access the area, with the loss of parking spaces also lamented.

Brighton and Hove City Council is now considering reopening the road to one-way traffic with a two-way protected cycle lane and an increase in parking bays for blue badge holders.

The new design would:

• Allow one-way access eastbound from the Palace Pier roundabout to Duke’s Mound

• Provide a two-way protected cycle lane on the carriageway by removing parking on the south side of the road

• Relocate the existing cycle lane, allowing for a wider promenade for pedestrians

• Provide 13 additional parking bays for Blue Badge holders, ensuring there are twice as many bays as previously available

Madeira Drive was closed to motor vehicles in April to give residents more space to exercise in the early stages of the Covid-19 lockdown.

In June, councillors agreed the closure should remain in place.

Chairwoman of of the Environment, Transport and Sustainability Committee, councillor Amy Heley, said: “The nature of these urgent changes allows us to be flexible.

“We’ve listened to residents and businesses and this option means we can still offer protected cycle routes, safe space for pedestrians and vehicle access for those who still need it. Madeira Drive is an iconic part of the city and we want everyone to be able to enjoy it safely.”

Councillors will also be asked to consider our travel habits since the introduction of emergency transport changes, whichincluded a cycle lane on the Old Shoreham Road.

Councillors of the Environment, Transport and Sustainability Committee will discuss the recommendation on Tuesday, September 29.