Plans have been drawn up to transform shabby Liverpool Gardens in Worthing into a town centre focal point.

More than £100,000 could be spent on a makeover of Liverpool Gardens before the end of the year.

Residents and visitors would be able to wander through landscaped pathways and enjoy new seating areas and a fountain.

Chris Spratt, chairman of the Town Initiative, an independent organisation funded by the council and local businesses, said: "Liverpool Gardens is one of the most important centre points of the town. It is often the first place pedestrians walk past.

"But we need to maximise the character and ambience of the area. The Initiative is keen to see it upgraded to a proper civic garden with a fountain."

He said plans drawn up by landscape consultants had been shown to councillors and negotiations were taking place over funding, which had to be secured from the council and private investment.

Mr Spratt said: "We want to crack on with the plans as soon as possible. We have no definite start date but hope to see the work started before the end of the year."

He will meet Councillor Tim Dice, executive member for leisure and cultural services, next month.

The plans also include new retaining walls and railings and possibly a sculpture.

The drive to raise the profile of Liverpool Gardens is linked to the Greening, the town's regeneration initiative.