ROAD safety will be improved on a busy route in Eastbourne as a new pedestrian crossing is installed.

East Sussex Highways is installing a new pedestrian-controlled puffin crossing, railings, anti-skid surfacing and zig-zag road markings in Friday Street, near its junction with Oak Tree Lane.

The work, from Monday, March 2 to Sunday, April 12, will also see a bus stop relocated to improve visibility of the crossing to drivers. The road will remain open with temporary traffic lights in place between 7am and 7pm Monday to Saturday.

Meanwhile, a section of the road between Penrith Way and Helvellyn Drive will close overnight from 7pm to 6am for three nights from Monday, March 30 for resurfacing, with traffic diverted via Hide Hollow, Eastbourne Road and Rattle Road.

The work is being carried out following a public consultation held last year in which almost 90 per cent of respondents said they were in favour of the proposals.

Cllr Claire Dowling, East Sussex County Council lead member for transport and environment, said: “This is a very busy road crossed by children from local schools which doesn’t currently have a dedicated pedestrian crossing.

“The consultation showed strong support for this scheme, which will make it much easier and safer for people to cross the road as well as improving visibility and creating a safer road surface.

“By keeping the road open through most of the work and carrying out the short part of the scheme which will require a closure at night, we hope to be able to minimise the impact on motorists and local residents.”

The crossing island which is currently in place will be removed, with a temporary pedestrian crossing installed nearby throughout the work. Signs and cones will indicate where parking is restricted.

The work could be delayed in the event of wet weather, but residents will be kept informed of any changes via advance warning signs.

More information about all forthcoming roadworks in East Sussex is available at www.eastsussexhighways.com