Work on a multi-million pound harbour development was starting today following an 18-month delay.

The East Bank development in Littlehampton was stalled when fisherman Clive Mills launched a legal bid to block it.

He took Arun District Council to the High Court claiming he had a long-established right to stay at Norfolk Wharf.

But the action failed twice, leaving him and his backers having to pay £100,000 in legal costs.

Mr Mills, of Bognor, has since made peace with the council by moving his boat and equipment off the wharf.

The settlement means the scheme can finally go ahead, and today foundation piling was due to be put in place for a visitor and field study centre.

The scheme will also provide Littlehampton with a youth hostel, coffee shop, tourist information, homes, better mooring facilities and a scenic riverside walkway joining the town centre to the seafront.

Council leader Derek Whittaker said: "I'm delighted to see this prestige development under way at last.

"Now we can really get on with the job of revitialising the town and increasing its prosperity for everyone's benefit."