Bus bosses have warned passengers they will face major disruption when protesters march through Brighton city centre.

Brighton and Hove Bus Company has said around half of its services will be delayed this afternoon when members of the Spanish Revolution Brighton march from Churchill Square shopping centre to Palmeira Square and back along the seafront to the Old Steine.

Around 200 people, including members of trade unions and the Stop The Cuts coalition, are expected to join the protest, which begins at 2pm.

Roger French, the bus company's managing director, said: “This is the city's major bus route with more than 100 buses an hour running through this bustling corridor, so considerable disruption for thousands of bus passengers during the afternoon is regretfully inevitable as buses are diverted away from normal routes or held up behind the marchers as they walk along these busy city centre streets.”

Jonathan Collier, from the Socialist Workers Party and Brighton Stop The Cuts, said: “We have been speaking to the police about our plans for about ten days and changed the original time for the event following a request. The disruption should be minimal.

“This isn't just about what is going on in Spain. This is about austerity throughout Europe.”

However some residents say they are unhappy that the group has been allowed to camp on the Old Steine, despite breaking by-laws.

Brian Ralfe said about 50 people would take tents to the Old Steine in a counter protest this afternoon.

He said: “The council should never have allowed them to be there in the first place.

“This will open the door to protestors from everywhere.”

A Sussex Police spokesman said: “We have received no notification of any form of counter protest.

“This lack of consultation does increase the risk of disruption to members of the community, businesses and shop owners and visitors who just want to make the most of what is forecast to be a fine weekend.

“We will facilitate the right of all those involved to protest peacefully along with the rights of those trying to go about their lawful business.”

Ben Duncan, the council's cabinet member for communities, equalities and public protection, said: “We are disappointed that no-one organising any counter-demonstration has publicly committed to ensuring public safety.

“We support peaceful protest but we would be concerned about any community safety issues that may arise from rival groups.”