More than half a million pounds has been earmarked by Brighton and Hove city council to pay for specialist advice on major projects.

The biggest sum - £185,000 -has been set aside for the scheme to replace the King Alfred leisure centre in Hove.

Tories queried the sum and asked for details.

Deputy chief executive Alan McCarthy said expert advice was needed for the scheme, one of the largest proposed for a key site.

The council has a commitment with developers Karis/ING although a planning application has not yet been submitted.

Mr McCarthy said: "We have received a contribution of £50,000 from the developers to pay for some of the costs and we are due to receive another £150,000."

A further £90,000 will be spent at Black Rock where two ice arenas are planned.

The council will spend £75,000 on advice for redeveloping the Brighton Centre.

A further £70,000 has been earmarked for the library being built in Jubilee Street and £20,000 on the mixed-housing scheme likely to be built at Preston Barracks.

The council has put aside £100,000 for other projects that may arise during the year. This could include redeveloping the Open Market, off London Road.