Detailed plans for a "vital" £89m new link road between Hastings and Bexhill close to an area of protected countryside have been unveiled by council chiefs.

East Sussex County Council said the road could help create about 2,000 new jobs, allow thousands of new homes to be built and cut noise, pollution and congestion.

But campaigners have voiced fears that it will ruin a beautiful area and damage the nearby High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

According to the council, the scheme would give a major boost to the economy of the seaside town of Hastings, which is rated as the most deprived area in the South East.

It said the road would become a "vital piece of transport infrastructure" that would have a positive impact on the Bexhill and Hastings area.

The council insisted it "recognised the sensitivity of the area" but admitted the construction would have "significant adverse environmental effects".

The plans will go on show at a series of exhibitions in Bexhill, Sidley, St Leonard's and Crowhurst.

Transport chief Councillor Matthew Lock said: "It has taken a lot of time and hard work to make sure this proposal has the excellent economic and environmental credentials it has and I am delighted that we are now at the stage of seeking planning permission.

"I believe that the link road is essential for the future regeneration of Hastings and Bexhill but it is now time for members of the public to make up their own minds."