Football fans will be able to watch from a new stand after plans were given the go-ahead.

But conditions attached to the scheme's approval could cost Eastbourne Borough FC thousands of pounds more than expected.

The club's application to build a 300-seat stand, hospitality suite and toilet block was approved by Eastbourne Borough Council's planning and licensing committee on Tuesday.

But councillors attached strict provisions to the plans, including construction of a traffic island outside the club's Priory Road ground.

Club chairman Len Smith said he could see no real need for the island, which he estimated could cost £6,000.

He said: "They put some really severe conditions on the plan.

"They have accepted we have plenty of room for parking but we are not happy with the traffic island.

"We have got a year to raise the money. It is a lot and we have not budgeted for it.

"The island is not necessary and we have never had a request for one from the residents or the supporters of the club."

Mr Smith said the extra expense could delay at least part of the project and he was not sure when building work would start.

Committee member Councillor Olive Woodall said: "We gave permission because it is not going to increase the number of people visiting the club, just make the ones who do more comfortable."

The ground has a capacity of 1,700 fans but, at present, seating for only six.