A new security fence will be installed at a mental health hospital.

Brighton and Hove City Council has approved the plans submitted by the Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust for the site in Nevill Avenue, Hove.

The proposals said that the new 3.3-metre high fence would be put up in an area by the Caburn Ward's fire exit that currently leads to an "unsecured external space".

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The hospital trust said this would improve the safety of inpatients in the event of an "emergency evacuation".

The plans come after years of reported safety concerns over the security of the hospital site.

One case that prompted these concerns was when student Janet Muller, 21, managed to abscond from the hospital twice in 24 hours before her death in 2015.

She was found dead in a car boot after escaping. 

The inquest jury found that there were failings in the way the trust cared for Janet, which contributed to the circumstances leading up to her death.

Since then, the trust has taken steps to increase security at the hospital, including climb-proof fences and restricted garden access.

The plans for the new fence were approved on Monday.