THE developers behind an open air swimming complex have scaled down their plans because of uncertainties regarding the crumbling seafront.

The Sea Lanes consortium had been due to built a permanent 25m pool along with shops and other leisure facilities on the former Peter Pan site in Madeira Drive, Brighton.

They had previously been granted the option of a 150 year lease. But council papers reveal the group is now only asking for a five year lease and only intend to build a temporary pool.

The change of direction will be discussed at Brighton and Hover City Council’s policy resources and growth committee on October 12.

The report states that because “creating a destination” is key to the scheme’s success, the “uncertainty around the timescales for the redevelopment of Madeira Terrace” has caused a rethink.

Council officers described the new plan as a “scaled down temporary version” of the original plan. There will still be a 25m pool, but it will be a temporary construction, with the intention to remove it after five years.

The report adds: “The developers would like to take an agreement for lease for a five year lease with an option to take an agreement for lease for a 150 year lease at the end of the term, subject to planning approval.

“The change for a ‘meanwhile’ use has come about due to the desire of the consortium to test the market for commercial uses in this yet unproven location.”

It adds: “The developers have indicated that funding for the permanent scheme has been hampered by the uncertainties over the future of Madeira Terrace.

“There is a critical timeline to ensure that the site is developed and providing a leisure attraction and an active frontage along Madeira Drive next summer.”

The group intends to start work on the temporary pool within months with it expected to be open by the end of May next year.

The development is viewed as a key part of the regeneration of Madeira Drive and the news is a blow to the council which is trying to spark life into its own crowdfunder campaign to redevelop the crumbling arches.

Council officers have recommended that councillors grant the terms of the revised plan at the meeting on Thursday.