PLANS to transform Hythe Promenade by giving it a major £700,000 makeover have been given the go-ahead.

The long-awaited scheme cleared its final hurdle yesterday when it was approved by Hampshire County Council leader Ken Thornber after months of debate.

Proposals to turn the cul-de-sac into a showpiece attraction hit a crisis last year after costs soared.

However, the county council took another look at the scheme and managed to trim the price while retaining many of its most popular features.

Plans include an amphitheatre behind the Lord Nelson pub, an elevated boardwalk, a central grassed area and improved parking.

Councillor Jonathan Glen, the county's executive member for spatial strategy, gave the scheme his blessing last month.

The proposals received similar support at a meeting of the buildings, land and procurement panel on February 2. They have now been given final clearance by Councillor Thornber, who is executive member for policy and resources as well as being leader.

Hythe county councillor Brian Dash said: "The new-look promenade will provide somewhere for the people of Hythe to enjoy. It will also attract visitors to the area and thus help the local economy."

Cllr Dash said he was grateful to Cllr Thornber and Keith Estlin, the county council's executive member for environment.

He said: "Cllr Estlin allowed the scheme to be reviewed and brought down in cost.

"He could easily have kicked the scheme into touch, but he didn't."

Work will start in May and is expected to take about six months.

The promenade provides spectacular views of Southampton Water and attracts a large number of people, especially for air and sea displays in the summer.

However, civic chiefs are unhappy at its run-down appearance.