A community cafe could be set up in a busy park.

Brighton and Hove Council is looking at converting an old store in the north-east corner of Stoneham Park, Hove.

The idea was popular when it was put forward in designs for improving the park earlier this year.

Local Labour councillor Heather James said: "It could be converted quite easily and also combine integrated toilets.

"While the cafe would be run as a commercial business, it would have a strong community focus and be open all the time the park is open.

"It looks as if the building could become vacant soon. I hope the cafe and the toilets could be open by next summer."

Coun James is also lobbying the council to provide more play equipment for youngsters after it decided to remove a climbing frame for safety reasons last month.

She said: "The homes in this area have very small gardens and the park is essential.

"Clearly no one would want any child to play on equipment that is unsafe but if any item has to be removed the council must ensure it is replaced.

"Parents are rightly worried that, left with nothing to play on, their children might get into trouble."

Coun James said the swings could not be used because the surface under them was unsafe. This meant there was nothing left in the park for children aged seven to 13.

The park has had problems in the past year, including allegations that drug users have established a base there.

An appeal has been established to help raise money towards further improvements on top of those made by the council.