City councillors have voted to give themselves pensions for the first time.

The policy committee agreed to offer pensions to all 54 members of Brighton and Hove City Council from the start of the new municipal year on May 14.

Officials estimate 40 councillors are likely to want to join and the cost to the authority will be £78,600. This is on top of the councillors' basic and special allowances.

Green convenor Keith Taylor said it was a sensitive issue and his party was divided on it. But he was in favour because it would encourage more and diverse people to consider putting themselves up for election.

Senior Labour councillor Brian Fitch said there would almost inevitably be criticism but the measure was essential to attract more young people.

Last year the council agreed the basic annual allowance should rise from £8,000 to £10,195.

Many councillors also get special responsibility allowances.