The £18 million redevelopment of Brighton's Open Market is to go ahead.

Five years after the idea was first raised, plans to convert the run-down area have been finally agreed by Brighton and Hove City Council.

The historic trading area, which is classed as vital to the regeneration of the London Road shopping area, will be transformed into a modern shopping hub with 87 affordable homes.

The six-storey redevelopment for the site will take two years to complete and include 12 workshops and artistic performing areas.

There were fears the plans could be scrapped as work must begin by March 15 if Hyde, the housing association behind the plans, is to receive £4.5 million in funding from the Homes and Communities Agency for the project.