A stop order was put on the erection of a stage in the middle of Horseshoe Bay yesterday.

Tourism Director Cherie Whitter said over-zealous workers had began putting up the structure, which will last from May to October, before a location had been decided.

Tourism will hammer out a location with the Parks department today.

Southampton resident and environmentalist Graeme Outerbridge has raised concerns about the stage becoming an eyesore but Ms Whiter said it would not be stuck away in a corner, nor would it obstruct anybody.

Mr Outerbridge said he had been alarmed to see the structure taking shape yesterday.

Tourism Minister Dr. Brown said he was sorry if people didn't like the stage but he said he was trying to improve tourism.

He added: "We are not going to be stopped by the nay-sayers and unprogressive elements."

Asked if local musicians or imported entertainers would use the stage Dr. Brown said that would be announced at a media lunch later this month.