Plans for flats that could have put the "cultural fabric" of a city at risk have been rejected.
Proposals were submitted to convert the upper commercial floors of 3 Pool Valley, Brighton, into a three-bedroom flat. But they were rejected by Brighton and Hove City Council.
The council said having a flat there would be "incompatible" with nearby live music venues such as Chalk, Dust and the East Street Tap, and could increase the likelihood of noise complaints by future residents.
READ MORE: Two restaurants named among UK's best places for vegan fish and chips
The council also said that the designated study room in the flat, which would likely be used as a bedroom space, would be insufficient for a resident.
The council said this room would mean the home itself would "fail to provide acceptable internal space for a three-bedroom, four bed-space property".
Before the rejection, a number of residents showed opposition to the plans over fears it would damage the city's nightlife.
One person said: "As a concerned resident of this vibrant community, I believe this conversion poses significant risks to the existing local establishments and the cultural fabric of our city.
"I urge the planning department to consider the broader implications of converting commercial spaces to residential units in Pool Valley.
"This area thrives on its diverse mix of businesses in the late-night economy, which contribute to its appeal and economic vitality.
"Chalk, East Street tap and Dust are all arts venues and diluting this commercial presence in favour of residential development could undermine the vibrancy and vitality of our neighbourhood, ultimately detracting from its appeal as a destination for residents and visitors alike."
Someone else living in the city said: "As a resident of the city for more than 30 years I have seen the changes in Brighton where our once world renowned music reputation has been decimated from many causes.
"Though much planning in the city makes sense, this central Brighton area has become a vibrant focal point for the live music scene and the diversity, creativity and talent, not to mention the outside income such as The Great Escape brings to the city, it is vital to retain our cities place in the live music landscape.
"Placing residential units right inside a space currently hosting the city's nightlife can only lead to confrontation with the incoming residents unless measures such as deeds are put in place to prevent these incoming residential dwellings from robbing the city of its vital after hours life."
Someone acting on behalf of the owners of Chalk said: "The introduction of a noise sensitive use such as the proposed residential development could lead to noise complaints from future residents against the ongoing lawful operations at their premises and neighbouring premises.
"If these late-night establishments were to become the subject of a noise complaint, they would be at risk of having their late night licences removed. This in turn risks detriment to the vibrancy of the city centre."
The plans , submitted by BPM on behalf of Hossein Tehranion, were rejected on Tuesday.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel