PROPOSALS to move a children's play area so it doesn't get in the way of Southampton Boat Show have been agreed by Tory council chiefs.

In the face of objections that it was the wrong location, the city council's Cabinet agreed to relocate the playground in Mayflower Park to its north-east corner.

Objector Jack Candy, vice-chairman of South-ampton Common and Parks Protection Society, said it would bring increased noise from nearby traffic and was unsuitable next to toilets.

He suggested use of a putting green in the south-east corner of the park, with the agreement with Associated British Ports to retain waterfront views. Others made similar points.

But council leader Alec Samuels said: "This proposal has been on the cards for a very long time. It came from our Liberal Democrat predecessors."

He said subject to planning permission it would bring "enchanced facilities for children", while creating more space for the boat show.

The planned play equipment will cost up to £525,000.