Around 70 residents have sent their views on Urban Splash's proposals to Lancaster City Council, with opinion split between those in favour and those against.

Some call it "the single biggest opportunity for Morecambe's regeneration", "a long overdue, attractive development that will enhance a derelict and frankly embarrassing site" and "vital in securing Morecambe's immediate future."

While others have said "this proposal is mass urbanisation of public land", "it is inappropriate to this sensitive site" and "the promenade should be open for all."

Coun Evelyn Archer, chair of the Friends of the Winter Gardens, gathered more than 200 signatures from residents complaining about the plans, after canvassing in the Arndale Centre.

Meanwhile an on-line petition supporting the scheme – set up on the Internet social networking site Facebook – has gained nearly 500 members.

The public consultation period on the plans expires on August 4 and council planners are expected to make a decision in September.

The main point of controversy within the scheme appears to be a proposed six 'finger blocks' (in two phases) of almost 400 residential flats spanning out from the Midland Hotel concourse.

Concerns have been expressed about the over-emphasis on residential accommodation, the height and number of the proposed buildings, the possibility of views across Morecambe Bay being blocked and probable increased traffic on the seaward side of the promenade.

The proposals cover the area including the existing Promenade Gardens and War Memorial, the derelict Harbour Band arena, the former Bubbles site currently occupied by Taylor's fairground, The Dome (expected not to be affected until 2012), Morecambe Arena and car park.

If the scheme is given the go-ahead, Urban Splash hopes to begin work by the end of 2008 with an estimated completion date of 2016.

They wish to phase the development, building the residential blocks from west to east with subsequent 'fingers' following in pairs.
Phase 1 includes scope for 120 flats, six beach houses, eight commercial units and 53 private car parking spaces.

The entire development includes scope for 381 flats, 130 additional rooms in a possible 'Midland Hotel 2', 22 beach houses, eight commercial units and 616 car parking spaces, 493 of which are private.

Urban Splash have said progress on the entire development would be dependent on the success of Phase 1 and Morecambe's continued regeneration.

The plans can be viewed at Palatine Hall in Lancaster or on-line at the Lancaster City Council website www.lancaster.gov.uk