A campaign to halt proposals to build beach huts at Kingsdown has gone global, with protesters across the world adding their signatures to the petition to stop the plans.

The count of names on Tuesday had totalled 603, including objectors from Pakistan, United States, Hong Kong and Australia.

The campaigners are up in arms against Tingdene Holiday Park’s quest to place 5.5m long huts on the foreshore for use by the chalet owners staying at the park in the village, off The Street.

One of the protesters Karen Brewer said that apart from the on-line petition, many other objectors had added their comments to the district council website.

She added: “A further 230 residents and visitors to the beach have provided detailed comments referring to the ecological, environmental and economic reasons as to why these plans should be rejected by the district council.

“The beach is protected as a Site of Special Scientific Interest where rare plants and wildlife is thriving. It nestles at the foot of the White Cliffs of Dover, a renowned and iconic area of outstanding natural beauty.

“Many people are concerned about the damage that the large huts will impose on the fragile shingle environment, and the increase in traffic, noise and rubbish on an unspoilt natural beach, enjoyed by thousands of visitors, holiday-makers and residents every year.”

* For full story and to find out more about petition see the East Kent Mercury, dated March 14.