Threats to turn a bypass into the 'next Newbury' could threaten 3,800 potential jobs in a rundown resort, an MP argued last night.

In a passionate speech, Hastings MP Michael Foster said the road was needed to create new work and lift the area off its knees.

He called for protests against the Hastings bypass to be called off, insisting it was "not another Newbury".

The Labour MP also called for better rail links, new trains and improvements to the A21.

Mr Foster secured a Commons debate to discuss a study on the transport needs of Hastings, which was handed to ministers in February.

A bypass, he argued, would create up to 3,800 jobs in the area.

He told the Commons: "What will bring about the sea change? What will bring about prosperity and improve our local environment? What will restore our fortunes to pre-war days?

"To my mind, and in the opinion of 80 per cent of my constituents according to a local poll, the solution is the creation of integrated transport access to Hastings."

Mr Foster said it was vital the Government made a speedy announcement on what action it was planning to take.

He told MPs: "For us, joined up Government means that Hastings must be joined up physically to the prosperity of the South-East and beyond."

Mr Foster said he was aware of the sensitive nature of the proposals but that "the roads are essential; without them we cannot secure economic gains or relieve the urban environment".

He said the town currently had more workers earning less than £250 a week than anywhere else in Britain.

Planning minister Nick Raynsford said Mr Foster had set out the "economic and social case" for transport improvements very clearly.

He promised to announce a decision as soon as practically possible, saying: "We recognise the urgent need to encourage a social and economic renaissance in Hastings. We recognise that if we are to maximise the investment, we must get the provision of transport infrastructure and services right."