Tougher planning controls could be introduced on properties in Brighton's trendy North Laine area.

Residents and business owners are being asked whether they want special directions to be applied to homes in the district, which is home to small independent shops, bars, cafs and restaurants.

Planning permission would be required to alter or extend houses that front a highway or public open space, or to demolish fences, walls, gates and railings.

The rules already apply to flats and business premises.

Planners believe this would protect the area, which is close to Brighton station, from unsightly and inappropriate residential development.

An exhibition explaining and illustrating the proposals will run from Monday to October 17 at the Brighthelm Centre in North Road, Brighton, from 10am to 5pm.

Councillor Gill Mitchell, who chairs Brighton and Hove City Council's environment committee, said: "Flats and businesses already have to comply with these regulations.

"It would make sense if houses did as well."