Campaigners are rallying to save a popular surfing spot fearing that it could be “decimated” by developers.

Organisers of the Save Our Wave campaign are urging people to respond to Lewes District Council consultation on plans to extend Newhaven Port.

The £20 to £40 million plans are to create a new berth, dredge the area and extend the port.

They fear it could stretch on to Tide Mills Beach as representatives of the industrial site say they are “desperately” short of quayside space.

Campaigners say while “no one doubts” the regeneration is needed there must be another way without losing a “precious natural space”.

Jon Spong, a surfer from Lewes, warned the development would result in a “terrible loss” for Newhaven.

The 46-year-old said: “We looked into the development and saw it would eradicate the last bit of the beach on the East Quay at the end of Seaford Bay.

“That area makes up the surf break and is hugely popular. It has been used for decades for surfing and there is a thriving community.”

The campaign’s petition received nearly 500 signatures within 24 hours of being set up.

Award winning children’s author Giles Paley-Phillips, of Seaford, signed the petition.

The 37-year-old said: “We use the beach a lot. We take our two young sons for walks, often along that stretch of the beach in particular, as it has very interesting historical features.

“Local residents use the area a lot too for dog walking and others for running.

“Also the Seaford Sailing club is situated at that end of the promenade and is used by many local residents. A lot of kite surfers frequent the area too, so it's a great spot for a large demographic.”

A spokesman for Newhaven Port said: “The ability of the port to attract new business – and the much needed jobs that this brings – depends on being able to create a new quayside.

“The area picked is the most obvious choice, essentially refurbishing an existing derelict area of the port.

“It also means the least interference with current uses of the Tide Mills area for dog walking and recreation as this will still be able to continue and access by footpath to the East Pier for walking and fishing will be maintained.

“The conservation area is ideally placed to act as a buffer between port activity, the existing conservation areas and the South Downs National Park, and will link the old seaplane base with historic Tide Mills village.”

To sign the petition go to saveourwave.org