A controversial scheme to extend a major seaside attraction has been put on hold.

The plan to extend the amusements at The Stade in Hastings, on the site east of the Boating Lake, had been recommended for approval by Hastings Borough Council.

But planners decided no decision should be made until the site had been visited by council officials.

Stade Developments Ltd was hoping to increase the size of the amusements and to construct a workshop and new building for an electricity generator.

But the scheme has outraged many people who believe the development will be an eyesore and will add to the existing noise made by the amusements and rides.

Along with letters of complaint, the council has received a petition signed by a dozen residents, insisting the plans be halted.

The Old Hastings Preservation Society claims the alterations will ruin the site, in the Old Town Conservation Area.

Coun Ann Scott, chairman of the group, which has around 350 members, said: "One of the changes involved bringing some of the larger rides, which are currently enclosed, to the open area by the lake which would obviously make them much more prominent.

"The site is close to an important group of Regency houses so we feel the rides should be kept both low in height and low-key so they do not spoil the area.

"If the plans are agreed, residents will be faced with added noise and disturbance."

The council has classified the building of the extension as minor work which will not ruin the seafront site.

But it has been monitoring the noise level of the rides and council bosses have said this factor will be considered before a final decision is made.

Earlier this year nearly £10,000 in grants was earmarked for improving the attraction in the hope of drawing more tourists.

After the news of the windfall was announced, residents and traders won a battle to prevent the building of amusements higher than four metres to preserve the sea view, and keep a 9pm closing time for the existing funfair.

Councillors will meet again on September 6 to consider the application.