Architect Piers Gough has put forward another unique design for North Laine in Brighton after plans for a striped-yellow building dubbed the banana block were dropped.

Last year developers Karis proposed the eight-storey building for North Road, Brighton.

But after huge opposition the scheme was abandoned.

Now Mr Gough has come back with a proposal for a smaller building on the same site.

Karis, which is also behind eccentric plans for the King Alfred Centre in Hove, hopes it will meet with public approval after three storeys were shaved from the overall height.

If approved by city councillors, there will be a bar/cafe on the ground floor with seven flats on the four storeys above.

Karis spokeswoman Heather James said: "We have carefully considered and taken on board residents' views and have returned with a scheme that resolves their concerns and yet is still vibrant, unique and evocative of the North Laine feel.

"Piers has come up with a unique and wonderful project for us and we are pleased to be moving forward."

Thursday March 11, 2004