A consortium including boxer Chris Eubank believes it has the answer to save Britain's only Grade I listed pier.

The Eugenius consortium, named after West Pier designer Eugenius Birch, was, at one time, working to restore the historic structure on Brighton seafront.

It now has a plan for a building on the Lower Promenade, which would have only two sections above the level of King's Road.

But the Brighton West Pier Trust has switched its private sector partner to St Modwen.

St Modwen, with the trust's support, is to submit controversial plans for two large new seafront buildings which, it says, are needed to make the pier restoration viable. But there has been strong opposition on the grounds they would be too big and block views.

Builder John Regan, who was a leading member of Eugenius, said: "I have more knowledge about problems with the pier than almost anyone.

"There is concern about the proposals of St Modwen. Even if its proposals are passed by the council, I am positive they will be called in by the Government and rejected."

Mr Regan said they were too big. "I am willing to reopen negotiations with all parties on behalf of Eugenius."

Chris Eubank, who has been a long-time supporter of the pier, at one time wanted to live in a home on the end of it.

Dr Geoff Lockwood, chief executive of the Brighton West Pier Trust, said: "John had a go but didn't make it.

"We got St Modwen to talk to him about his ideas. It doesn't believe they are sustainable.

"I have been talking to English Heritage and Brighton and Hove City Council and they think the scheme has a very good chance of getting through."

Dr Lockwood said St Modwen has made considerable progress on adjusting the initial design of the buildings.