The council leading the appeal against the Government's decision to allow Brighton and Hove Albion to build a football stadium at Falmer is due to set next year's council tax bills today.

Lewes District Council is to meet this afternoon to debate the increase proposed by the council's cabinet.

Councillors have been asked to agree a 4.35 per cent rise.

The council says this figure has not been affected by preparations for a legal battle over Falmer which opponents claim could cost up to £250,000.

Brighton and Hove Albion Football Club claims a failed High Court appeal against Deputy Prime Minister John Prescott's decision to allow the stadium to be built in Falmer could cost the council and its supporters hundreds of thousands of pounds.

Lewes District Council estimates it will be no more than £65,000.

It has set aside £25,000 from a planning fund in its reserves.

Falmer Parish Council has promised £30,000, the Sussex Downs Society has pledged £5,000 and the South Downs Joint Committee has promised £5,000.

Last year, Lewes District Council put bills up by 3.9 per cent.

It says the extra money this year is needed for improvements to recycling, street cleaning and tackling antisocial behaviour.

Today's meeting is at Pelham House, St Andrew's Lane, Lewes, at 2.30pm