A builder behind an alternative scheme to save the West Pier in Brighton has called for everyone to pull together to save the stricken structure.

John Regan is one of the backers of a second scheme for saving the 137-year-old pier, which has been closed since 1975.

The Brighton West Pier Trust has already obtained planning permission for renovating the Grade I listed building.

City councillors are expected to consider an application by its private sector partner St Modwen for two shoreline buildings containing leisure facilities next month.

The buildings, which would be above King's Road in places, are being opposed by neighbours and conservationists.

Trust chief executive Geoff Lockwood told The Argus the second application muddied the waters and could cause delays that would be fatal for the crumbling pier.

But Mr Regan said he should go along to a meeting being held by Save Our Seafront, which supports the second application, at the Brighton Metropole Hotel on February 5 at 7.30pm to see if there was common ground.

He said: "It will be an open and honest meeting and I will ensure he is not battered."

Mr Regan said the second scheme need not be considered as new by the Heritage Lottery Fund, which has allocated funds for the redevelopment.

He added: "We have got to go the extra mile to save the pier and everyone must work together."