An ex-Labour councillor who lost her seat at the last election has been appointed to a key role in the promotion of plans for Hove's King Alfred site.

Heather James has been appointed by developer Karis as community liaison and communications co-ordinator.

Ms James, who lost her seat in Wish ward to the Tories in the Brighton and Hove City Council elections, will be involved with the King Alfred Leisure Centre scheme from October.

Karis and partners ING have been chosen by the council to press ahead with plans for the site, which include a new leisure centre and towers designed by Frank Gehry containing more than 400 flats.

The scheme is called the Four Maidens but has been nicknamed Tin Can Towers by some.

Karis managing director Josh Arghiros said: "Heather's qualities are a real bonus in helping to move forward into the next phase for the King Alfred Maidens.

"As this project is so important for our city it is vital the community is involved from the outset.

"Her role is to liaise, inform and listen and to create a community relationship that is genuine and effective.

"Heather's input will also add an extra dimension in helping us achieve our aspirations in producing not only one of the most exciting projects in the world but also one which has been conducted with regard and respect for all."

Ms James has lived for more than 20 years in St Aubyn's, opposite the King Alfred.

During her final year on the council, Ms James was deputy chairwoman of the environment committee. She did not serve on the planning committee.

She was instrumental in community projects such as improving Stoneham Park and getting a paddling pool at Hove Lagoon. She is still trying to get a skate park there.

She said: "There is a lot of work to be done. I intend to listen to what people say. It is such an exciting project. We must get it right."

Ms James said part of her job would be to point out what the scheme had to offer.

She has a background in sales, marketing and advertising. When on the council, she specialised in open spaces and the environment.

Tory opposition leader Brian Oxley said: "We are pleased Heather has a job after her defeat in the elections. But we are surprised a previous Labour councillor has been appointed to such a controversial scheme."