Neighbours are upset that homeless families have been placed in St Catherine's Lodge Hotel on Hove seafront.

They have complained justly that no planning application for the change of use was put before the council before it took place.

More than six weeks later, an application has been received and the delay has also been unacceptable.

There will now be a period of consultation but the residents fear the result will be a planning whitewash.

Councillors should make sure this application is considered in the same way as those which have nothing to do with the council.

But residents should also accept that, if the homeless people are causing no trouble, this hotel is a reasonable place for them to stay.