Plans for a segway centre for the South Downs have been dropped after opposition from locals.

The Argus revealed last week that Brighton and Hove City Council was in “advanced negotiations” with a firm about turning the pitch and putt course in Rottingdean into a place to hire the two-wheeled forms of transport.

But after locals raised concerns about potential damage to the South Downs National Park and creation of congestion, operators Orb 360 have pulled out from talks.

The firm said it only wanted to go ahead with plans if they had the full backing of local residents.

The local authority said it was now speaking to residents and ward councillors to establish the best use for the land.

Clive Bonny, who lives near the windmill in Nevill Road, Rottingdean, said: “Well done to all those locals and city friends who made their views known.

“An anonymous local resident is now offering to take the lease and refurbish the golf hut into an education, learning and wild life interpretation centre with the support of local community groups.

“This will allow locals to continue to use this peaceful and beautiful walking area and allow our children and tourists to appreciate the value of conservation and preservation.”

The 18-hole course had been out of use since last year.