Business leaders say a derelict tower block should be bulldozed to make way for a skyscraper and new office space.

Members of the Brighton and Hove Economic Partnership have met property developer Raymond Stoner to discuss plans for the Anston House site opposite Preston Park in Brighton.

Chairman Tony Mernagh said: "Despite having planning permission for conversion to a hotel the property has been vacant for the past 17 years and has now fallen into such a state of disrepair that demolition and redevelopment are essential if the site is to be brought back into productive use.

"It has the potential to offer up to 40,000sqm of new office accommodation.

"The economic partnership will continue its dialogue with Anston Properties and the city council."

Tuesday, August 2, 2005