Visitors to Eastbourne could be charged 20p to use the resort's toilets.

The controversial fee is being considered by Eastbourne Council as part of a package of plans to improve the seaside town's public loos.

The money would be used to employ attendants to keep the toilets in Hyde Gardens and North Street clean and to clamp down on vandalism.

The plan was considered by members of the council's best value committee at a meeting last night. It came out strongly against the idea but referred it to a council cabinet meeting scheduled for the end of October which has the final say.

Peter Sutcliffe, of Milton Crescent, spoke for many residents when he said he was appalled by the proposal.

He said: "I think it is absolutely outrageous to have to pay to go to the loo."

But Coun Michael Tunwell, deputy chairman of the best value committee, said: "I would rather pay a charge and have a good quality toilet available than have to use toilets which are in a vandalised state.

"We have to strike a balance. There should not have to be a cost but we have these sad people who want to wreck everything.

"You pour money away by having to keep repairing after vandalism."

Elliott Cairnes, town centre manager, said: "It is important to ensure people's experience when they come to Eastbourne is high quality. If a small charge is going to ensure that quality, it may be justified."

Other recommendations are the introduction of toilets with access for wheelchair users on the pier and Brassey Avenue and improvements to toilets at Fishermen's Green.

The cabinet, meeting on October 31, is made up of five members of the ruling Conservative party. Council leader Graham Marsden chairs it.