PLANS for a major development on a riverside site have been suspended following objections.

Newcastle City Council decided yesterday to defer its decision on the plans for the east Quayside area pending a site visit and talks with the developer.

AWG Developments has applied for permission to build a 13-storey apartment block including an eight-storey office, three restaurants and a 224-space car park, with a public space and a pedestrian route.

After consulting local residents and agencies, the council received several objections, including from English Heritage and Newcastle Central MP Jim Cousins.

Mr Cousins described the proposed development as "clumsy", and said it would harm residents' quality of life and Newcastle Gateshead's bid to become European Capital of Culture.

As one of only two remaining plots in the area covered by the East Quayside Masterplan, prepared by Sir Terry Farrell in the mid-1990s, the site was originally considered for the Sage music centre, now being built on the opposite riverbank.

But in a report to the council's development control committee, head of planning and transportation John Miles recommended that the plans be approved, saying it would enhance the area.