A University has agreed to keep a playing field open until January for local people to use.

After a new sports complex had been built at the University of Brighton site between Polegate and Willingdon, a decision was made to sell the old recreation ground at Hindlands.

Willingdon and Jevington Parish Council was interested in buying the land so residents could continue to use it. Their offer was turned down.

Nigel Waterson, Willingdon's MP, accused the university of "dirty tricks" by wanting to sell the land for housing development.

Rod Mallinder, head of estate and facilities management at the site, said: "New housing has to be provided as part of the Government local plan and all parties involved will work together to decide what will be done with the site."

Mr Waterson said: "Of course I welcome the extension of time for users of the land.

"But in the long term that does not alter the fact the university seems intent on making a windfall profit from selling these playing fields for housing development."