Forum support for marina

Commercial estate agent Alex Macpherson put his proposal for a 12million development to the forum at Little Common Community Centre.

Despite saying people should try and make an informed opinion after seeing a model of the scheme, due to be exhibited next year, Mr Macpherson received warm applause for his proposal of a small harbour, an 83 bedroom hotel, small retail complex and underground car parks.

The forum even felt moved to make a show of hands to see who supported the scheme. Backing for the plan was unanimous.

Mr Macpherson added one town centre shop has opened a comment book on the plans, which so far had collected 90 'yes' votes and only one 'no'.

He added he wanted to know the opinion of residents before applying for a costly coastal impact study on the harbour, which would be built on De La Warr Parade.

Mr Macpherson, who has 12 years of experience as an hotel and museum designer, says he already has three commercial backers interested in the scheme.

He has consulted with both Rother District Council and the De La Warr Pavilion.

He said: "After talking to the planning department and lots of people I decided it was better to get public opinion first.

"I am having the model made and it will go in the De La Warr Pavilion.

"I have to say the response is far better then I expected. People I have never met before are stopping me in the street to talk about it."