Dozens of new pieces of public art could be built around a Sussex town.

Following the commission of the £70,000 "Sunclouds" at Worthing's Splash Point, The Argus can reveal that councillors want to see far more similar new works dotted around the town.

The move has been backed by leading artists in the town, who believe it could attract thousands of new tourists and help build a new cultural reputation for Worthing.

Deputy Leader of Worthing Borough Council, Ann Barlow, said: "The idea is not only to promote the town to visitors but also make it more lively for its residents as well as helping to regenerate the place."

The council's cabinet have already held talks about creating a series of works from Splash Point to Goring.

Individual works, created by a variety of artists, would be dotted at regular intervals along the promenade.

There are also moves to install pieces of art in the town's main shopping areas and in parks.

Funding is now being applied for to pay for the art and commissions could be made later this year.

However Coun Barlow said far more discussion and planning was needed before artists were asked to begin work.

Coun Barlow said she was keen for businesses to also get involved.

She added: "This wouldn't be paid for by the tax payer.

"We are looking for business sponsorship and funding. We are also hoping firms will consider works of art when they set up new buildings.

"For example, can they incorporate some art around a window, or some kinds of statues?"

Dan Thompson, from Worthing's Revolutionary Arts Group and chairman of Worthing Arts Council, gave his full backing to the vision.

He said: "A town's public art tells visitors how the town sees itself - it's like dressing well.

"The Revolutionary Arts Group would like to see more temporary public art, and not just big projects provided by the council.

"I'd love to see businesses club together and invest - for example, buying colourful flags or signs for Worthing's North Laine around Warwick Street.

"And it's great to see a business like Coast, the new cafÈ at Splash Point, commissioning artists already.

"I'd also like to see Worthing Museum and Art Gallery bringing temporary public art to town centre locations, rather than keeping it locked up in their back garden.

"Why not have changing displays in Liverpool Gardens, for example?"

Work on Sunclouds, the interactive work of art by the Walter Jack studio, is due to get underway later this year at Splash Point.

It has been paid for by grants specifically designed to pay for regeneration in the town.