Activists have been given an open invitation to protest in Brighton and Hove.

The new ruling party in Brighton and Hove has said it is a “duty” for protesters to take to the streets and express their anger at cuts to public services.

Their comments have lead to fears the city could become a destination for demonstrations and business leaders have warned the move could result in an influx of thugs with no interest in peaceful protest.

The debate comes after the latest series of protests in the city this weekend, which saw five high-street banks occupied.

The campaign saw about 50 activists demonstrating in Lloyds, Natwest, RBS, Santander and Barclays but no arrests. The council has already refused to evict a group of Spanish protesters who have been camping at Old Steine.

Councillor Ben Duncan, cabinet member for communities, equality and public protection, said that peaceful protests will be embraced by the new Green administration.

He said: “Since the election I think you can see a change of attitude at the council. “We made a decision with the Spanish protests in Old Steine not to move them on and potentially inflame the situation but to allow them to demonstrate peacefully. We have had discussions with the police and they seem to be sharing that attitude.

“I hope over the next four years we will see a whole new atmosphere. Legitimate protest is not just a right but in the current climate is almost a duty. We want people to feel confident they can carry out that duty in our city without fear."

David Sewell, from the North Laine Traders Association, said: “Peaceful and organised protest is a right and I don’t think any business owners have a problem with it, as long as it’s not every single week. The concern for us is the ones who have no interest in peaceful protest. You do get some coming from outside the area who see this as an opportunity to cause trouble.

“Brighton is already an attractive place for protesters just like it is for homeless people, but I would not like to see it get out of control.”

A spokesman for Sussex Police said: “Our aim has always been to facilitate peaceful protest but we have to balance that with the right of people and businesses to carry on unaffected. We are keen to work with protest groups before, during and after demonstrations to ensure we achieve these twin aims.”