Angry residents have formed a protest group against the proposed destruction of homes and allotments to build a £25 million park-and-ride scheme.

A 900-space multi-storey car park is part of Brighton and Hove City Council proposals to cut traffic and parking problems in the city.

But residents near the proposed site at Patcham Court Farm have formed the Patcham Against Insensitive Destructive Development group.

Campaigners who met at Patcham Community Centre on Saturday feared the loss of six homes and 35 allotments if the scheme went ahead. The proposed site, which is designated an area of outstanding natural beauty, could become a car park within two years if councillors agreed to the plans.

If the Patcham Court Farm area is chosen, Bob Ennis, 73, and his daughter Julie Ennis, 45, said they would be forced to leave the farmer's cottage which has been their home for 33 years.

Ms Ennis said: "I am appalled at the way we have been treated. The first we heard about this was when I read about it in The Argus."

Cheryl Butler, chairman of the Neighbourhood Watch in Patcham, said: "A park-and-ride scheme would bring crime to this area. There would be an increase of theft and vandalism that would affect the whole community."

Local Conservative councillor Geoffrey Theobald said: "It's absolutely ludicrous to think they would do this. We have fought things like this in the area before and we will do it again. Another battle, but we will win."

Monday, May 23 2005