Architecture and design experts have welcomed plans to create a £290 million sports and housing complex on the site of an outdated Thirties leisure centre.

Government advisor CABE, the Commission for Architecture and the Built Environment, announced its support for the King Alfred project after meeting with developers Karis in September.

But it also warned some aspects of the proposal, designed by world-class architect Frank Gehry, needed further work.

It has asked for more information about the two residential tower blocks and more detailed images of the proposed view of the development from surrounding areas.

The complex, built on the site of the King Alfred Leisure Centre in Hove, would include 754 flats, a new sports centre, shops, cafes, bars and restaurants.

A CABE spokesman said: "We support the idea the architecture should be distinctive and quirky and that it could be something entirely new to Brighton and Hove - all of which was true of the Royal Pavilion when it was built."

It was worried the entrances to the towers seemed "mean" and "lacked presence" and some balconies did not have enough space for a table and four chairs.

It also suggested more work was needed on the sports centre to bring the "invention of the exterior to the internal spaces".

Josh Arghiros, managing director of Karis, said: "We very much welcome CABE's enthusiastic support. The majority of their recommendations are already part of the design ethic."

Dr Michael Ray, deputy chairman of the Regency Society, said he believed CABE wanted to "tinker" with the application and had ignored the impact the towers would have on the surrounding area.

He said: "I have little time for CABE. It seems to support anything these days and any kind of development.

"The main problem is the impact this will have on adjacent properties. Some of the buildings are nearly as tall as the highest ones in Grand Avenue.

"The public spaces are surrounded by these ten-storey blocks. You can't sit out and bask in the sun as they will overshadow the piazzas and make the whole area rather dark and windswept."