A ROAD in Lewes will be closed for five weeks as part of a scheme to create a better environment for pedestrians.

East Sussex County Council is restructuring the pavement and kerb and resurfacing the road in Station Street between its junctions with High Street and Lansdown Place.

The project has been funded from a £2.4 million pot of money from the Government’s Local Sustainable Transport Fund for measures which improve conditions for people walking, cycling and using public transport.

The work, which will be carried out from 8am to 9pm seven days a week, begins on Monday, September 15 2014.

The road will be closed for 24 hours a day, with limited access available for deliveries and private access. However, pedestrians will continue to be able to access businesses in Station Street while the works are carried out.

A diversion route will be in place via Southover Road, Southover High Street, Bell Lane, Winterbourne Hollow, the A275 Nevill Road, Offham Road, White Hill and Mount Pleasant.

Cllr Carl Maynard, county council lead member for transport and environment, said: “This is one of a number of projects we’re delivering aimed at boosting the economy while encouraging people to walk, cycle or use public transport.

“This scheme will create a safer, more attractive environment for pedestrians on what is a very busy walking route between the railway station and the town centre.

“As with any project of this nature, there will be some disruption, but the fact our contractors will be working seven days a week for long hours will enable us to complete the work as quickly as possible.”

Anyone who has queries about the work is asked to call the council’s highways contact centre on 0345 6080193 or contact East Sussex Highways via Twitter @esccroads