Towers set to be higher

7:39am Monday 2nd October 2006

Controversial architect Frank Gehry is planning to raise the roof of his controversial seafront development by another two storeys.

One of the towers straddling the King Alfred site in Hove could reach 28 floors if his latest proposals are accepted.

According to a new report, most of the buildings surrounding the towers would be lowered, following a deluge of complaints but the two main towers would rise another two storeys.

Brighton and Hove city councillor Gary Peltzer Dunn said: "What was originally proposed was totally inappropriate and this will make it worse.

"We're talking about two enormous blocks over 100 yards high, and the perimeter blocks are still going to be as big or bigger than surrounding homes.

"I still think it represents a gross overdevelopment and it will have a catastrophic impact.

"I'm very disappointed that they are not taking on board residents' views and lowering the towers. I don't think this will appease them one iota."

Valerie Paynter, of the Save Hove campaign, said: "It's almost like they've accepted the Benidorming of the seafront.

"I don't see this proposal as being in any shape or form elegant."

Mr Gehry and developers Karis have been working on revisions to their two original applications after concerns were raised by the Government's architectural advisors CABE and English Heritage.

Sue John, chairwoman of the King Alfred Project, said: "Karis, together with Frank Gehry, have been listening hard to communities and experts alike to develop a scheme aimed at gaining the maximum possible support.

"It's a great improvement, a great scheme, and I hope fellow councillors agree."

However, Councillor Brian Oxley, leader of the Conservatives, said: "Residents have been telling me for years that they don't want over-development on the site and that's exactly what we seem to be getting.

"They're just twiddling around the edges from what I can see."

The report, being considered by city councillors on Thursday, states that balconies will be added to the apartments, with stainless steel, rather than aluminium, covering the exteriors of the towers.

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