Major changes to rail travel will be needed if a community stadium is built, according to a councillor.

Councillor Brian Oxley, opposition Tory leader on Brighton and Hove City Council, discussed the issue with Matt Ball, external relations manager for train firm South Central.

Brighton and Hove Albion have plans for a stadium at Falmer which would involve thousands of fans travelling to matches by train.

Coun Oxley said: "I was told if the proposed stadium went ahead, a new station would have to be built or major development would be needed to cope with usage."

However, funding would be a key issue over what development took place at the station.

Coun Oxley, a regular rail commuter to London, heard recent delays and cancellations had mainly been caused by a shortage of drivers and staff.

Frosty weather and a late autumn leaf fall have made travelling conditions difficult.

South Central is recruiting drivers and staff to address the shortages and have a plan to restore full service by Easter.

Mr Ball warned significant improvements in performance would take longer because of the year-long training period drivers had to undergo.

Coun Oxley said later: "Travelling has not been a happy experience recently.

"It is clear the company has plans in place to address the issues and we shall be watching for the improvements that are promised."