Planning has started on the first scheme in Sussex aimed at reclaiming the streets for walkers and cyclists.

Part of Bognor has been chosen for a new-style Home Zone, where traffic will be reduced to almost a snail's pace.

The West Sussex County Council scheme is being funded with £500,000 from a special challenge fund launched by the Government.

Pevensey ward in Bognor, which includes one of the town's largest council estates, was chosen because it has the highest road casualty rate for children in the county.

Several residents have now joined a steering committee which will spend the next few months flagging up the type of schemes which could be introduced to make life safer.

Council Cabinet member for environmental issues Councillor Tex Pemberton said: "Because of the child casualty rate, it is right we introduce the first home zone in this area of Bognor and over the next six months there will be open days and exhibitions showing the type of projects that could be introduced."

The detailed planning, design work and consultation process is expected to take up to 12 months to complete.