Burger King bosses are considering legal action against the firm behind the Aquarium Terraces development in Brighton.

The hamburger chain estimates it has lost almost £1 million due to problems with the seafront project.

Franchisee George Bastone told The Argus he was fed up with "broken promises" about the future of the £5 million development.

He said our report yesterday, revealing widespread anger at the scheme, had made him even more determined to take action.

Four years ago developers Compco unveiled plans for 50,000sqft filled with cafes, bars and restaurants.

But for a year after opening in May 2000, Burger King was the only business there.

Jim Thompson's Oriental restaurant opened a year later but no more bars or restaurants followed.

Last week Po Na Na was refused a licence to open a 1,000-capacity night club at the site, between Marina Parade and Madeira Drive.

Mr Bastone said: "The project has been a nightmare. We were the first people to move in and we did so on the understanding it would be filled with food venues. That hasn't happened. We're studying what legal redress we have against Compco.

Burger King waited 18 months after signing contracts before being allowed to open for business.

The delays were caused by problems with the construction of the terraces.

Burger King had shut one of its restaurants, in Bognor, ahead of the expected opening.

Mr Bastone, managing director of franchisees Shan Trading, said: "We've spent about £170,000 more than planned on improvements.

"We've traded badly. When you consider the 18 months we wanted to be open but couldn't, it's £750,000 in lost revenue."

Despite repeated calls from The Argus, no one from Compco or property agents Stiles Harold Williams was prepared to comment.