Proposals to build a city-centre tower block for students have been condemned by residents.

An application for the 87-bedroom building on site of the former Thwaites Garage in Mighell Street, Brighton, has now been submitted to city planners.

But many fear the area will become overdeveloped if the four to seven-storey student halls gets the go-ahead, as it would be next door to the recently agreed nine-storey extension of Amex House.

TV and radio writer Carole Hayman, 64, of nearby Carlton Hill, said the plans, which include the demolition of the existing garage and a flint wall, were enough “to make you weep”.

She added: “First the Amex redevelopment and now this. It seems like a cynical move, taking advantage of the Amex planning permission being granted."

One Mighell Street resident has sent a letter to homeowners in the area drawing their attention to the application.

A spokesman for developer Mighell Street Ltd said: “We have worked closely with the council to design a scheme that fits well with the local development framework and is in line with the council’s strategy to reduce the burden that the demand for student accommodation places upon residential property in the city.”

The council will decide whether to grant permission by April 19. To comment on the plans, visit www. brightonhove.gov.uk/planning.