There was dismay today after plans were unveiled for a

towering new water ride at the end of the Palace Pier, Brighton.

Earlier this year, Brighton and Hove Council lost a costly planning battle with the Noble Organisation over a rollercoaster on the grade II listed pier.

Planners said the rollercoaster, about 50ft high, spoilt the look of the historic structure, which is 100 years old but Noble argued it had spent

millions restoring and maintaining the pier and needed the rides to make money.

The row went to the top, with Environment Secretary John Prescott finally ruling the rides could stay.

Now Noble has submitted plans for a water flume, which will be the same height as the rollercoaster, sparking anger from councillors and conservationists.

But it is feared that following Mr Prescott's decision, the council will be reluctant to enter into another expensive planning battle after the previous one left them thousands of pounds out of pocket.

If permission for the water ride is refused, councillors know Noble will have a very strong case on appeal after its last victory.

Work is expected to start on the attraction in the New Year so it is ready for the summer season.

But Andy Durr, chairman of the council's tourism committee, said: "As far as I am concerned there is too much development at the end of the pier. I personally do not want to see another huge structure. Enough is enough."

Paul Elgood, leader of the Lib Dems on the council, said: "I am very concerned about the end of the Palace Pier spoiling the skyline of Brighton and Hove.

"By putting in such

an application the Noble Organisation must think they can do anything they want."

Converted for the new archive on 30 June 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.