A PARK or open space will be dedicated to the thousands of men who died in the First World War.

Plans for a centenary field and possible memorial were met with cross-party support by members of Brighton and Hove City Council.

Sites shortlisted include The Chattri, Old Steine Gardens, Easthill Park and Patcham Peace Garden.

Councillor Anne Norman put forward a notice of motion at last week’s full council meeting calling on members to back plans for the nomination open space.

She said the chosen area would be renamed in honour of those who died and receive additional funding help.

This could lead to the planting of new flowers, trees or the building of a plaque or even a play park.

Speaking at the meeting, she said the proposal was a fitting way to honour those who had died.

Officers will look at the suitability of sites before reporting back to the environment, transport and sustainability committee meeting on October 7.

Coun Leigh Farrow said: “Both my grandfathers fought during that war and were lucky to survive to the end of the conflict. Hundreds of thousands of other armed forces personnel weren’t so lucky.

“We should dedicate one of the city’s many fine parks as a centenary field which will a fitting memorial to the past residents of the city who lost their lives or were injured in the service of their country between 1914 and 1918.”

Coun Christopher Hawtree also backed the campaign but called on councillors to consider an urban site.

He said: “I’m very keen to support this, but it is important to have it in a closely-populated urban areas so as many people can be conscious of it.”

Prince William launched the Centenary Fields scheme in Coventry earlier this month.

He said: “I am delighted that Fields in Trust have identified these Centenary Fields as a vital part of our national heritage and well-being. “I encourage local authorities to safeguard these spaces of remembrance for generations to come.”

Where do you think the centenary field should go? Email letters@theargus.co.uk.