Business leaders are supporting two controversial schemes that could produce hundreds of jobs.

However, the Brighton and Hove Economic Partnership also had some reservations about both schemes.

The partnership is backing in principle plans for housing, hotels, a language school headquarters, a supermarket and other development on the largely derelict site next to Brighton Station.

Plans are being re-examined by the New England Consortium before being resubmitted to Brighton and Hove City Council.

Simon Fanshawe, who chairs the partnership, said the scheme would provide much needed housing and business space.

He said: "We recognise it is of key importance what the development will look like.

"Modernisation has to be considered carefully and needs to seek the consensus or approval of those who will work in, live in and invest in our city.

"We are pleased the council is continuing its discussion with the developers and are looking forward to seeing revised plans incorporating the highest quality of design."

The partnership is also backing in principle plans for two new leisure and entertainment buildings on either side of the West Pier in Brighton to help make restoration viable.

Mr Fanshawe said: "The partnership would like to see a West Pier of a dynamic, high-quality design, able to withstand coastal weather, that is also sensitive to its environment."

He said the partnership was concerned the Brighton West Pier Trust had not so far confirmed any tenants for the redeveloped pier and said it should seek out firms that would reflect the high quality of design.

Mr Fanshawe said: "We would welcome some disclosure as to how and where the retail and commercial units in the development are being marketed.

"We would also like to see a statement of economic impact of the proposals and an assessment of the number of new jobs stimulated by the development."

Find out more about the West Pier controversy at thisisbrightonandhove.co.uk/issues