Scenic land leading to the South Downs will not be developed following almost 80 letters of objection.

An application to build a bungalow on land behind a house in First Avenue, Worthing, was refused by borough planners because it would have a negative effect on the area, which neighbours downland.

Dozens of nearby residents complained to the council that any moves to develop the site would ruin the view and increase congestion with Fifth Avenue.

One resident wrote: "The rural nature of the lane (near the land) provides one of its the most appealing aspects and would be destroyed for ever if the proposed development is granted."

A council report said: "Increased traffic and activity to the site would harm the rural character of this track extensively used as a recreational route to the South Downs."