A socialist party has announced it will stand “anti-cuts” candidates across the city in the local elections.

The Trade Unionist and Socialist Coalition (TUSC) expressed anger after the council backed the city’s budget plans for the year ahead, which included cuts to some public services.

The group threatened to stand candidates if Labour and Green councillors did not pass a “no cuts” budget in a special meeting last month.

TUSC had instead proposed that Brighton and Hove City Council use its reserves to fill gaps in funding, along with using borrowing and a campaign to get back funds cut by the government over more than a decade.

David Maples, a spokesman for the party, said: “Over the next four years, the people of Brighton and Hove face devastating cuts.

“We have already seen large increases in charges for services, such as adult social care. We will now see more increases and cuts to provision.

“This is a devastating scenario for our vulnerable residents.

“If Labour and Green councillors won’t stand up for the community, we will.”

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TUSC, chaired by the former Labour MP for Coventry Dave Nellist, supports trade union rights, demands an end to cuts and austerity and fights for local climate emergency plans.

The party last stood a candidate in Brighton and Hove in a council by-election in Hollingdean and Stanmer in May 2021, placing fourth - ahead of the Liberal Democrats.

Voters will go to the polls across the city and most of Sussex on May 4.

In a change to elections held in England, people will be required to bring a form of photo ID with them to the polling station in order to cast their ballot.

Those without suitable identification can apply for a Voter Authority Certificate for free via the government’s website.

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