The developers and operators of a seafront pool have defended membership prices after residents complained it is "unaffordable". 

Sea Lanes, in Brighton, will be a 50m swimming pool in Madeira Drive. 

South Downs Leisure, the operator, announced an "early bird offer" for memberships to its pool on Tuesday. 

The introductory price is £45 per month, and residents have taken to social media to express their views on the costing. 

Writing on Facebook, Argus reader Donna Hawkins said: "If the early bird is £45, how much will it be after?

"Thanks Sea Lanes for another unaffordable activity for the average working public."

Jane Muir, from Brighton, added: "Disgusting. It's meant to be for everyone, especially the local people. 

"I was looking forward to taking my grandchildren there during the summer holidays, but that won't happen."

Others disagreed, saying the monthly fee would be "reasonable value" for Sea Lanes users. 

David Shaw, from Brighton, said: "I think people are missing the point about the concept of this.

"It is the National Open Water swimming centre, it is not intended as a leisure pool for families.

"People using this facility will probably use it several times a week."

The operator defended the £45 per month fee, citing rising utility prices as a reason for the price. 

Duncan Anderson, from South Downs Leisure, said: "South Downs Leisure have set competitive prices for Sea Lanes membership, with an initial founder member offer to reward those signing up early and committing to membership while the project is still being built.

"Uptake for this early membership has been well received, with local residents excited to take the plunge while the build takes shape. Member prices will then increase marginally once the Founder Member offer ends.

"The developers – Sea Lanes Brighton, and the operators, South Downs Leisure, have agreed on pricing for memberships, hire and single use costs following research into other facilities and taking into account rising utility price rises.

"South Downs Leisure and Sea Lanes Brighton want to ensure that the Sea Lanes facility is sustainable, to safeguard the long-term operation and to help keep the community of Brighton active and healthy."

The early bird memberships are available now and are limited to the first 500 people to sign up, or to December 23, whichever comes first.