Reaction to plans by world famous designer Wayne Hemingway to regenerate Lowestoft's south beach have been met with negative reaction from residents.

The Lowestoft South Beach plans include a renovation of the East Point Pavilion, a brand new pagoda to become a restaurant or café, and seafront beach huts big enough for people to stay in overnight.

Mr Hemingway, with his company HemingwayDesign, has previously worked on regeneration projects in Margate, Morecambe, and Gateshead before becoming involved with Lowestoft.

Vince Parker commented on Facebook 'Oh dear what's this town coming too. I'm all for new ideas but really.'

Caroline Wheeler was not a fan of the aesthetics of the proposed designs. She said: 'If the artists impression of what the pagoda looks like, then I guess it could end up as number one on the ugliest buildings list!'

Don Ski echoed her worries, he said: 'We actually need more accessible toilets between the water fountains and Claremont pier. Better bins for recycling to stop people littering the beaches and seating with backs on.

'Hopefully they won't ruin what is actual a lovely beauty spot!'

Brenda Martin highlighted the lack of facilities for children near the south beach. She said: 'Bring back the soft play area that used to be in the pavilion.

'There's nothing for families with young children on the seafront at the moment, particularly in rainy weather.'

Michelle Dunnell echoed the wish to use existing facilities better. She said: 'Could we not use the existing pavilion? Open it up inside and turn it into a lush tropical rainforest type cafe/music venue.

'It would be a fantastic option for the building. All year round usage too. Plus, it's already wheelchair accessible.'

Others suggested simpler options for the council to take forward. Jamie Illingsworth said: 'Lower the car parking prices and more people will visit.'

Matthew Holland said: 'What a load of rubbish. How about cleaning up the seafront? Repairing the walls?'

Donna Pointer added: 'I feel as though something substantial such as fixing the potholes would be a good start before unnecessarily wasting cash on beach huts that are perfectly fine. If it's not broke don't fix it.'