Sailing club concerns for locals

It is hoped the development will attract more tourists to the area

Plans for a £10m hotel complex and sailing school in Merseyside have come under fire from traders and residents who say their wishes are being ignored.

People living and working close to the site of the proposed development on West Kirby's waterfront fear the plans will spoil the town's atmosphere.

But those behind the privately funded development claim it will help make West Kirby a "destination resort".

A public consultation over the plans is to start next month.

Jamie Edwards, who lives opposite the site, said: "I feel let down - as a resident and also a trader - that the council has seen fit not to involve any of us.

'Great shame'

"They are just looking to sell off the land that effectively belongs to everyone not just the council and I feel it's a great shame - it's not right."

The company which built Liverpool's Hope Street hotel - Carpenter Investments - are behind the development which is to be sited at the head of the Marine Lake at the junction with Dee Lane.

The old sailing school is to be replaced under the plans and a new boutique hotel complete with restaurant, bar, spa and conference facilities built.

There are also plans for new public toilets, shops, a cafe and a tourist information point for local attraction Hilbre Island.

The development would also see the creation of 50 jobs for the area.