Transport interchange
While the Marina is already considered to be well served by public transport, its transport facilities remain poor. In response to this we propose a new interchange accessed via the entrance ramp but centrally located on Palm Drive at the commercial heart of the Marina. Dedicated bus, taxi and tuk-tuk bays are proposed along with a new shelter supported by electronic information boards. Our plans also dedicate land and a substantial financial contribution towards the Rapid Transport System (RTS) proposed by Brighton & Hove City Council.
Harbour Square
Currently, the first image for any new arrival to the Marina is the unwelcoming and bleak roundabout at the base of the existing entrance ramp. Our proposals aim to radically transform this area into an attractive shared space for pedestrians and vehicles alike. The principles of a shared space are that they reduce traffic speeds, keep the flow of vehicle and pedestrian movement constant, enhance safety and allow the space to be developed into a visually appealing area.
Car parking
With the population increase, parking and its control is an important consideration. Our response is as follows:
- The existing multi-storey car park will retain 1353 car parking spaces
- Our proposals will provide 1409 public and private car parking spaces over and above those in the multi-storey car park
- Access to the multi-storey car park will be controlled to stop the 1353 'visitor' cars entering the heart of the Marina. The principal access will be from the existing high level entrance at the top of the ramp and a new single point of exit from level three connecting directly onto the exit ramp
- A car park management plan will be introduced. From early consultation feedback three principal car parking problems were highlighted which will be addressed by the following:
- The multi-storey car park has a tendency to be used as a park-and-ride facility and a source of off-street parking for others outside the Marina. This will be addressed by introducing a pay-as-you-go system enforced by car park attendants. However refunds will be given to those users who can prove they have spent money using the facilities within the Marina.
- Due to the lack of enforcement of wheel clamping and the parking controls advertised currently in the Marina, irrational and sporadic parking sometimes occurs. To alleviate this our plans include procedures to be enforced by new car park management.
- As there is no advance warning that the multi-storey car park is full, visitors have a tendency to fly-park elsewhere in the Marina. Electronic information boards positioned outside of the Marina and within the Black Rock Interchange will alert drivers of the spare capacity.