The decision on controversial plans for a laser lighthouse from Southampton's civic centre clock will be delayed, council bosses revealed today.

The two-week postponement is being welcomed by those opposed to the idea, including astronomers and environmentalists, who say they are delighted the authority has agreed to conduct further investigations into the possible effects from the laser.

The idea had been to install the green laser at the top of Southampton's Civic Centre Clock Tower and to shine the light up to 15-miles north, south, east and west as a landmark for the city.

Now, however, the city council says following representations from various groups opposed to the Laser Gateway it will be conducting further investigations and consulting with other local authorities and organisations before deciding whether to give the scheme the green light.

A spokesman for the Southampton Astronomical Society said they were delighted at the postponement and hoped Southampton City Council would now listen to those who believe the laser is a bad idea.

See tomorrow's Daily Echo for indepth coverage of the big laser debate.