Conservationists protested against plans to build homes close to an environmentally sensitive site in Brigthon.

Demonstrators at Hove Town Hall claim the scheme for up to 35 homes will damage a nature reserve at Whitehawk Hill, Brighton and threaten rare species.

Whitgift Housing is appealing against Brighton and Hove City Council's decision to refuse its planning application for the project.

Dave Bangs, spokesman for the Friends of Whitehawk Hill, said the site also contained a neolithic camp which dates from the same time as Stonehenge.

He said: "These homes would have an impact on an important local nature reserve.

"It is home to badgers, foxes, slow worms and rare species of birds."