Neighbours have formed a community association to fight plans to build 122 low-cost homes on a greenfield site in Westdene, Brighton.

The former playing fields at Redhill Close could be transformed into a £3 million development for low-income households and disabled people.

If approved by Brighton and Hove City Council, the scheme by Sussex Overseas Housing Society would be the first development of this size in the city to offer 100 per cent low-cost housing.

DMH Planning, which has drawn up the proposals, says it would make a major contribution towards much-needed cheaper homes and help prevent further encroachment on the South Downs.

The housing society says local people would benefit from a £200,000 contribution from developers for sports facilities and the donation of extra land for the local Scout group, allowing it to redevelop its premises.

But people who live near the site say they are worried about extra traffic and possible congestion, as well as a lack of local amenities.

Now they have formed an organisation to oppose the scheme, called the Withdean and Westdene Community Association, which has already had its first meeting to decide its battle plan.

Spokeswoman Joanna Lodge said: "All residents are strongly opposed to the proposals, which would mean increased traffic and congestion in an already busy area.

"There are additional concerns regarding the lack of local amenities and infrastructure including education. The local schools are full to capacity.

"With transport, the area is served by a limited half-hourly bus service and regarding health care, there is no doctor and the dentist is full to capacity."

The association plans to make strong representations to the council.

A second public meeting will be held at the Scout hut in Millcroft on Tuesday at 8pm.

A previous scheme for 45 homes on the site by developers Sunley Estates was rejected by the council.

Sunley appealed and a public inquiry was held but the council's decision was upheld.