A long-awaited doctors' surgery in Eastbourne opened its doors to harbour residents last night as years of campaigning finally paid off.

The Harbour Medical Practice, in Barrier Reef Way, Sovereign Harbour North, was opened by the Mayor of Eastbourne, Olive Woodall, as members of the Sovereign Harbour Residents Association watched on.

More than 600 people had already been put on the books by practice doctor Idango Adoki, who previously worked from Park Practice, Brodrick Road, Hampden Park.

Chris Peppiatt, an SHRA member, said: "I have been down here for two years and the campaign started just after that with the formation of the residents association.

"It is very important. If you have children who get ill it's vital there is somewhere within walking distance of where you live."

Residents launched a bitter attack on harbour developers after it emerged hundreds of new homes had been earmarked for two sites at the harbour at the expense of community facilities.

Council planners granted permission for Dr Adoki to set up his practice from the four-bedroom detached house, despite receiving several letters from nearby residents, concerned over increased levels of traffic and parking problems.

Mrs Peppiatt said: "It's just a handful of people saying they don't want it on their doorstep. I think it's very shortsighted. If you were ill and needed a doctor you would want him to be on the corner."

The surgery has had temporary planning permission for two years, after which a medical centre is planned for the harbour.

Dr Adoki said many residents had been forced to travel to Eastbourne town centre and Pevensey Bay to visit GPs, because of a lack of facilities.

He said: "If the medical centre does happen I hope to move there and grow from there."

The practice will also be staffed by a nurse and health visitors.