Campaigners say the city was not built for easy vehicle access

Sussex Enterprise, which is taking a bus to the town hall, wants a new site at Braypool near the A23/A27 junction.

Campaigners say the development, north of the Brighton bypass, is essential to ensure economic success in the city.

A spokesman said the city was currently served by one existing park and ride at Withdean that caters for 250 cars and is in a residential area.

'Historic streets'

He said the plan would decrease congestion, parking problems and pollution and would widen the city's catchment area for employment.

And he added that the project could improve access to the city for workers in Worthing, Shoreham and other towns.

The campaign website says that a similar city such as Oxford has four sites with a total capacity of nearly 3,800 vehicles, with a fifth being built.

It says: "Brighton's historic street pattern was determined in the 18th Century before the advent of the motorcar.

"Hemmed in by a rich heritage of historic buildings this street pattern does not lend itself to easy access by large numbers of vehicles.

"Brighton, however, is a destination location. People come here in large numbers.

"Its continued economic success depends upon encouraging and facilitatingsuch visits."