Filming for a Netflix fantasy drama is set to take place in the city centre later this afternoon.

Production crews have been spotted around the Royal Pavilion Gardens ahead of filming at the palace in Brighton.

The production, referred to as Essex 2, is believed to be code for the Netflix show The Sandman, based on the comic book of the same name written by Neil Gaiman.

The series stars Tom Sturridge, Boyd Holbrook, Vivienne Acheampong and Patton Oswalt.

Residents living near to the Royal Pavilion have spotted some fake snow scattered around the grounds of the palace ahead of production later today, with a number of parking spaces in the area allocated for technical vehicles.

Filming is due to take place between 1pm and 2am today, with Palace Place closed off to the public, along with the grounds to the Pavilion Gardens.

A letter to local residents signed by two location managers from Warner Brothers said: “We understand that we will be guests in the area and, as such, we will strive to keep any potential disturbance to your day to the least possible.

“Filming cannot take place without the goodwill of local residents and we would like to thank you for your patience and kindness in advance.”

Brighton and Hove Museums, the trust that operates the Royal Pavilion, confirmed to The Argus that the palace and the gardens will be closed off to the public while filming takes place.

Brighton has been used as a filming location for many TV and film productions over the years, including the hit ITV crime drama Grace.