Brighton & Hove Council has decided that an ice rink and international arena should be developed at Black Rock, adjacent to Brighton marina.

Brighton International Arena (BIA) is proposing an Olympic-size public ice rink plus a 7,500-seat multi-purpose arena for staging ice-skating events as well as other sports, exhibitions and shows. Food, beverage and retail outlets would be included.

Explaining its choice, made in favour of rival proposals to put a spa hotel and winter gardens on the site, the council said the arena scheme would best complement the city as a regional, national and international venue and a place to invest. It would also have spin-off benefits for tourism, business, quality of life for residents and the regeneration of the East Brighton area.

The decision does not amount to planning permission and a planning application will still have to be made. Details: www.brighton-hove.gov.uk