An investigation is to be held into why it has taken so long to carry out renovation of Preston Park.

The £750,000 scheme for the historic park in Brighton, backed partly with National Lottery money, was first announced in June 1997.

Opposition Tory leader Geoffrey Theobald said: "In the three and a half years since then, only a small proportion of the proposed work has been implemented."

Environment director Alan McCarthy said more than 240 trees had been planted in the park and an ancient hedgerow had been replanted.

The meadow west of The Gallop was being properly managed and 42 cast-iron seats had been bought for the park.

Landscaping was under way in the walled garden and a path towards it had been rebuilt. Information boards had also been put up at the three main entrances and by the rock garden.

Mr McCarthy said the original five-year timetable for work at the park appeared reasonable at the time but there had been delays caused partly through negotiations with lottery organisers.

He added that the project had a high priority for the council and attempts had been made to keep the public in touch with what was happening.

Councillor Theobald said there had been lengthy delays and added: "This is an ideal project for scrutiny."