Neighbours protested as work was about to start on plans for a new rugby ground.

Pitches are being levelled at Hove Recreation Ground, off Shirley Drive, to provide a better centre for Hove Rugby Club. It was the end of a long battle by residents to prevent the scheme, which includes a new clubhouse, from taking place.

Originally the scheme was backed by Hove Council and further approvals were given by Brighton and Hove Council.

Local Tory councillor Brian Rowe said: "When the Conservative-controlled Hove Council gave planning permission for the rugby club to play in Hove Rec, it did not intend the large-scale development and building that the Labour group has allowed.

"They are especially annoyed about the large clubhouse, a road to be built to it and a big Tarmaced area. Many people are angry, hence the protest. The Rec is being taken away from the people of Hove and its quiet beauty destroyed forever."

Josephine Libby, of Hove Park Road, said: "This ground was given to the people of Hove. Now it will be used by the rugby club and there will be such a mess with the mud."

But those in favour of the scheme later arrived at the ground to see the work getting underway. Brighton and Hove Mayor Jenny Langston joined members of Hove Rugby Club for the celebrations.

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