December 11th, 2024.



The future of the A259 improvements between Newhaven and Seaford remains uncertain, following years of overpromising and under delivering by the previous Conservative government, say Lewes Lib Dems.

The scheme was promised as part of the Major Road Network (MRN) programme by the former Lewes Conservative MP. However, despite promises, funding was never secured, leaving the project vulnerable.

With a change of government, the new Labour administration has initiated a review of transport projects, further delaying progress. Local Liberal Democrat MP James MacCleary is now urging Labour ministers to back the A259 upgrades and commit to this investment for Seaford and Newhaven.

East Sussex County Council submitted the business case over a year ago, but the Department for Transport has yet to confirm the next steps.

James MacCleary, Lib Dem MP for Lewes constituency said: “People in Newhaven and Seaford have been let down time and again.These roads are in dire need of an update, whether it’s traffic backing up through Newhaven from accidents on the bends, or the dangerous Bishopstone junction, improvements are needed.

“The previous Conservative MP made grand claims about delivering improvements to the A259, but finding out the funding hadn’t been secured is incredibly poor. Now, Labour’s review risks pushing this vital project even further down the line.

“I am determined to ensure this project remains on the agenda. Our community cannot wait any longer for the investment we need,”

Seaford West District Councillor, Lesley Boniface added: “It’s bitterly disappointing that the County Council has wasted so much money on consultation, just to be caught up in another review.

“We’ve seen lorries flipping over, and massive traffic jams. Local people really just want to feel safe on the roads and the clogged up roads and dangerous junctions sorted out. We’ll be encouraging the County Council to be taking action outside of the Major Road Network study.”


Pictured: James MacCleary and local Lib Dems by the Bishopstone Junction