Police officers will be able to keep a close eye on residents and users of a giant leisure and homes complex if the development goes ahead.

Frank Gehry's plans for the King Alfred centre on Hove seafront have been modified to include a police office following a request by Sussex Police.

It would be built in space earmarked for retail and commercial use.

Josh Arghiros, managing director of developer Karis, said: "We are committed to ensuring the highest standards of safety and security. Frank Gehry and the design team carefully considered the advice of Sussex Police throughout the evolution of the design and we are delighted to accommodate a police office.

"It will help us to ensure the complex and the surrounding area is a safe place everyone can enjoy."

The £290 million King Alfred project would provide an indoor sport and swimming centre and 752 homes, including 280 affordable flats. The new sports centre includes community meeting rooms and a creche. The site will also feature a doctor's surgery, artwork by sculptor Antony Gormley, public toilets and recycling facilities.

The community facilities will form part of a revised environmental impact statement due to be submitted by Karis to Brighton and Hove City Council within the next two weeks.

The council's planning committee is expected to vote on the scheme by the end of May.