Protesters are opposing a blueprint for the future of Brighton Marina which they say sets out a vision for a "mini Benidorm".

The master plan will guide developers looking to build at the marina, which is expected to become home to at least 3,200 new residents.

Although the planning document, known as PAN04, will not be legally binding, Brighton and Hove City Council says it will help co-ordinate future development and guide the regeneration of the area.

The vision includes a minimum of 2,000 new homes, shops, parks, GP surgeries and a primary school.

Opponents say if the master plan is agreed it will pave the way for "civic vandalism".

The council has received more than 80 letters of objection.

Protesters plan to gather outside Hove Town Hall today, when the proposal is to be discussed.

Derek Granger, of Chichester Terrace and former president of the Kemp Town Society, said: "The effect of these proposals will be to create a monstrous extension at the eastern end of the city which will, at a stroke, destroy much of Brighton's unique and beautiful physical setting.

"The famous oblique views of the chalk cliffs from the west will be obliterated, as will those from the eastern cliff path.

"Easterly views along the beach looking towards the marina will also disappear, to be replaced by a massive block on the marina's western breakwater.

Most importantly of all, the proposals will have a devastating effect on the world renowned Grade I Kemp Town Estate, one of the finest architectural assemblies in the country, with the strategic views from within the estate being severely compromised.

"So if PAN04 is approved, it will pave the way for a mini- Benidorm, with many tower blocks jutting aggressively above the level of the cliffs."

The council has responded to concerns raised since the document was first circulated in November by making a number of changes.

Officers say the document offers "ample protection"

against overdevelopment and any plans to build towers higher than cliffs will have to meet planning guidelines and be approved by the council in its role as landlord.

An updated version of the master plan also demands that five key views are protected or improved by future development - the seafront, waterfront, cliffs, coast and South Downs.

Officers have also called for better pedestrian routes, using the successful New Road model which has reduced traffic and speeds by removing markings and pavements.

The Argus revealed on Monday similar "shared space" projects were to be introduced to part of Black Lion Street, and that three other roads had been earmarked for the treatment.

The planning document includes guidelines for Brighton Marina, Black Rock and the former nearby gasworks site.

Brunswick Developments has already received planning permission for the south-western area, including 853 flats, shops and leisure space. The firm has recently submitted another planning application for a hotel on the western breakwater.

Explore Living has also applied to put up almost 1,300 flats as part of the "inner harbour scheme", including a 28-storey building.

The Black Rock project includes an indoor events arena with two Olympic-size ice rinks and 111 flats.

Another tall building of more than six storeys could be built on the former British Gas site.

The council says the document is essential to co-ordinate development at the marina.

In the report to the environment committee, officers wrote: "There have been numerous changes to the document, including changes to the format to clarify issues and any misunderstandings which may have arisen from the early drafts of the document.

"It is considered these changes have resulted in a clearer and stronger document that responds to the objections of the various stakeholder groups - residents, developers, landowners and other interested bodies."

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