Neighbours want to overturn plans for a new block of flats described by its developer as a 21st Century landmark.

The development, described as the first truly modern piece of architecture to be built in Brighton and Hove, will tower over nearby Victorian houses.

The eight-storey building will include apartments with glazed walls from floor to ceiling.

Residents in Connaught Road, Hove, claim it would be out of keeping with the street, which is part of a conservation area.

Tom McGuiness, who has lived there for 20 years, said: "The new building will cut out our light and our privacy will be invaded because it will overlook our gardens.

"The Conservation Area Advisory Group also objected on the same grounds but the plan was approved anyway."

Mr McGuiness, 63, said: "Housing on an important brownfield site like this is a wonderful idea and we are not against it in principle.

"If the flats were four storeys high they would be in keeping with the area and nobody would object."

He said he had been told residents could not appeal against the decision and that their only hope was to negotiate with the architects and developers in a bid to get the height reduced.

A spokeswoman for Brighton-based architects the RH Partnership said: "We are aware there were objections from residents."

A meeting to discuss the plans with residents was organised for Friday night.

Josh Arghiros, director of Karis Developments, said: "The architects have designed a beautiful and exciting landmark building which, I believe, is the first truly modern work of architecture in Brighton and Hove for many years."

City councillor Chris Morley said: "I think the building will harmonise well with its surroundings."

A council spokesman said: "A number of written objections were received from local people and were considered as part of the planning process.

"If objectors feel the council has acted improperly they should contact the council's complaints officer."