Work on Brighton's Victorian seafront arches will begin this summer after the Department for Transport awarded the city more than £22 million, with the council planning to add £3.9 million to deliver the next stages.

The investment is aimed at strengthening and repairing the King’s Road arches beneath the A259, a crucial structure that supports the road, pavements and cycle lane along one of the city’s busiest stretches of seafront.

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The DfT grant would pay for phases 4 and 5 of the programme, starting between the bandstand and The Seahorse before moving to the arches just west of Shelter Hall.

Earlier phases 1 to 3 have already delivered new shop units, public toilets and the rebuilt Shelter Hall.

Councillor Trevor Muten, Cabinet member for Transport and City Infrastructure, said: "This is fantastic news and vital for the future of this key part of the city.”

"This funding means we can strengthen the Victorian-era arches so they can support the road, pavement and cycle lane on one of the city's busiest routes for another 100 years.

"But we'll also be able to create a better home for local businesses in this vibrant space on the seafront and, working with local communities, look at options for a new and improved King's Road paddling pool area."