A 24-hour piazza for stage shows and musicians has been unveiled as the centrepiece of a huge seafront development.

Brighton and Hove City Council has discussed the mini-arena, the size of three tennis courts, with developer Karis/ING and its architects.

The piazza, which would measure about 60 metres north to south and 35 metres along the coast, would be part of the £26 million leisure centre to replace the King Alfred at Hove.

The scheme by the city council, in partnership with Karis/ING, includes four tall towers containing more than 400 homes.

The arena would provide the main access to the sports centre and space for performances.

A cafe, possibly at first-floor level, could overlook the piazza. An 18th-floor, 360-degree viewing platform and exhibition in one of the towers is also being investigated.

There would be links to buses and the proposed rapid transport system nearby.

A winter garden, proposed by the developers, would be a bright, non-commercial space with plants, trees and a dramatic roof.

Deputy council leader Sue John said: "While nothing is finalised, the ideas we are exploring show what an exciting range of possibilities the development presents."