Neighbours have objected to plans for new sea view flats in their village saying the block is too tall and would overlook their homes. 

Developers want to knock down a house in Marine Drive, Rottingdean, and build a three-storey block of nine flats in its place.

Plans are also for lower ground parking for nine cars, each of which would have an electric vehicle charging point.

Ward councillor Bridget Fishleigh and neighbours have objected to the plans and said the increased height of the building would reduce light to surrounding properties.

One objection said: "The proposed height of the development is one storey too high and will allow occupants to look into neighbours' gardens and windows.

"The number of flats proposed is far too many and should be reduced by 40 per cent.

Plans are to knock down the house, third from left, to build the flatsPlans are to knock down the house, third from left, to build the flats (Image: Google Maps)

"Rottingdean already has too much traffic and a further block of flats will only increase the traffic flow.

"The development plans do not provide enough parking spaces for the proposed number of flats."

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Cllr Fishleigh said her main concerns were overlooking and loss of privacy, loss of light and the lack of affordable housing.

In another objection, a nearby resident said: "The current plans raise the level of the building several meters above the current roof level and match the level of the adjacent block of flats at 99 Marine Drive, which is considerably higher up the hill.

"On this basis buildings further down the hill could theoretically be six or seven storeys, if the level of all buildings were allowed to be the same. The planned elevation bears no resemblance to the current elevation and should it be accepted

"This would be an extremely dangerous precedent that could completely change the nature of the neighbourhood."

Property developer Fortitudo said its proposals will redevelop a brownfield site.

A Fortitudo spokesman said "The site falls within the urban area, where intensification is required to meet housing needs.

"The proposals will better utilise a brownfield site with additional homes, that are in keeping with the scale and pattern of development in the immediate locality."

The consultation period for the flats finished on July 4 and it will soon be recommended or go to a planning committee for decision.