A developer has submitted plans to demolish four semi-detached seafront homes and build a block of 42 flats in their place.

The nine-storey building would replace numbers 145 to 151 Kingsway, Hove, which were built in the 1930s and sit in the Pembroke and Princes Conservation Area.

But developer Fortitudo Property, based in Dorset, says the current buildings are “unsymmetrical and discordant in the context of the evolving prevailing development in the area” and hold no historical value.

“The dwellings are probably not highest quality examples of their architecture. They do not represent the legacy of any particular time, person or event,” Fortitudo said in its application.

“Examples of historic buildings which do present as pleasant and important reminders of Hove’s splendid seaside history can be seen some 200 metres to the west.”

Residents, however, are objecting to the application, saying the development would also not suit the area.

One person said: “The site is borders on the busy traffic intersection of Kingsway and Hove Street. The resulting traffic from residents entering and leaving the building would cause havoc and be a danger to the continuous traffic waiting at the red light.

“There would be loss of light and quality of life to the section of flats in the garden of Viceroy Lodge, immediately behind the current houses.

The Argus: The four semi-detached properties facing demolition The four semi-detached properties facing demolition (Image: Google Maps)“The proposal would result in overdevelopment of the road in what is already a very busy comer of Kingsway.

“Construction and ongoing maintenance would also increase traffic problems on the heavily used A259 at this junction.

“The development is not in keeping with the surrounding conservation area.”

The apartment building would comprise 42 two-bedroom flats, 30 car parking spaces and 54 bicycle parking spots.

“There would be increased pressure on the limited parking available in the Princes area,” the resident added.

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“The plan proposes 30 spaces for residents for 42 apartments. This proposal would worsen an already tight situation.”

The planning application was validated by the city council on October 11 ahead of the consultation on November 2.

Comments on the application can be made via the city council website.