ALL Felixstowe residents are being urged to make sure they attend an exhibition tonight showing the latest proposals for the multi-million pound development of the resort's south seafront.

By Richard Cornwell

ALL Felixstowe residents are being urged to make sure they attend an exhibition tonight showing the latest proposals for the multi-million pound development of the resort's south seafront.

The plans show what Bloor Homes currently have in mind to regenerate the 17 acres of derelict land – but they could yet change.

Campaigners are working hard to ensure the current proposed project is never built, while Suffolk Coastal has been asked to reconsider a major part of the site.

The Countryside Agency has told the council that it could be turning down National Lottery cash if it rejects an idea to use the area in front of manor Terrace as a Doorstep Green scheme, a venture supported by residents.

Bloor Homes intend to submit a planning application for the development of the land – which stretches from the Manor Club to Orford Road – in early January.

But there has been criticism of almost all of its proposals so far, particularly a plan for nearly 200 homes on the land, but also the suggestion of an ampitheatre and more gardens, which will do little to regenerate the resort.

Councillor Dot Paddick urged everyone in Felixstowe – and especially the West End of the town – to attend.

"I think it is vitally important that people go along to the exhibition tonight and tomorrow and see what is proposed," she said.

"Solicitors are already working on the case for the residents, but is essential that we are ready and armed with as many views and as much information as possible. There may also be a need to make views known before the planning application is made on certain points."

David Smith, Suffolk Coastal cabinet Member with responsibility for the project, said officers and councillors would be on hand at Felixstowe Leisure Centre to answer any questions people have about the scheme.

The exhibition will be in the Horizon's Bar area of the centre, Undercliff Road West, from 5pm to 9pm today and 10am to 4pm tomorrow .

"The scheme is set to give a major boost to the regeneration of this resort, providing flagship leisure facilities with recreational attractions that will be a hit with people of all ages," said Mr Smith.

"These latest designs include the changes that were made after the public comments during May.

"There is now more car parking, a lower key restaurant/bar, and issues around Manor Terrace have also been taken on board, plus the recent agreement that beach huts will continue to remain within the development. I look forward to finding out what people think about the proposals."