A final decision on whether a 400ft skyscraper will be built next to Brighton Station has been delayed until next month.

A three-week inquiry into plans to build a 42-storey tower in New England Street, Brighton, was held in November last year.

The skyscraper would contain 146 flats and a public rooftop garden.

The site would also include a four-star hotel and a pedestrianised square with an outdoor public lift.

The inquiry was prompted when developer the Beetham Organisation appealed against Brighton and Hove City Council's decision to reject the plan in April 2005.

Each side produced expert witnesses to testify to the effect of the tower on homes and businesses, on the city skyline and on wind patterns in the area.

A decision was expected on Thursday April 19, but the deadline was extended after the Beetham Organisation was allowed to submit further evidence to planning inspector Kenneth Barton.

Ruth Kelly, Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government, is now expected to publish a final decision on or before May 17.