RESIDENTS in Hastings have welcomed improvements to a junction that will ease congestion and make it safer for pedestrians.

Work on the junction of Albert Road and Denmark Place finished ahead of schedule despite the discovery of concrete reinforced with steel bars which slowed down progress.

The work included the replacement of traffic signals, two new pedestrian islands, resurfacing, and drainage and street lighting improvements.

The scheme was part of the Local Growth Fund Hastings and Bexhill Movement and Access Package designed to improve cycling, walking and bus infrastructure, ease congestion and support economic growth across Hastings and Bexhill.

Cllr Claire Dowling, lead member for transport and environment, said: “The work carried out at this junction will make a significant difference to the flow of traffic and make it easier for pedestrians to cross.

“I’d like to thank the community for their patience during the work and our contractors Balfour Beattie, who not only completed the work ahead of schedule but also took the time to clean