An adult mental health hospital has submitted plans for a new gated security fence to improve the safety of inpatients.

The Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust has sought permission from Brighton and Hove City Council for a new fence on one part of the Millview Hospital site in Nevill Avenue, Hove.

The fence would be built in an area to the south of the Caburn Ward, which is by a fire escape exit that currently leads to an "unsecured external space". 

The NHS trust said the fence, which they want to be 3.3 metres high with secure gates, would improve the safety of inpatients during an "emergency evacuation".

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At the moment, the area just has a small timber fence and some shrubs, which would have to be partially removed to make space for the new fence.

The plans come after reports of safety concerns at the hospital over the years.

The Argus: The area at the moment has been described as 'unsecured external space'

One incident was the tragic death of 21-year-old University of Brighton student Janet Muller, who was found dead in the boot of a car in 2015 after escaping from the hospital.

Despite being detained under the Mental Health Act, Janet was able to escape from the secure unit twice in the 24 hours before her death.

The inquest jury found that there were "failings" in the way the trust cared for Janet, which contributed to the circumstances leading up to her death.

Since then, the trust has taken steps to increase security at the hospital, including climb-proof fences and restricted garden access.

A decision on whether this new security fence will be approved is set to be made by April 29.