AMBITIOUS plans to build an eleven-storey seafront tower could be scuppered if councillors follow advice from council officers.

Plans to build a block of 36 flats in a complex up to 11 storeys high will go before Worthing Borough Council planning officers tomorrow night.

The outcome of the application is being seen as an indicator for the success of an even taller tower on the former Aquarena site in the town proposed by the same developers which will come before councillors next month.

The application for a 21-storey tower with 147 apartments on the site of the former Worthing Aquarena swimming pool and car park in Brighton Road, Worthing, is scheduled to be heard by committee on Wednesday April 15.

Almost 800 residents have registered their objection to the scheme fearing that granting permission for the site on the corner of Grand Avenue and West Parade will give the green light for similar towers turning the town into “Benidorm by Sussex”.

The Worthing Society and Worthing West MP Sir Peter Bottomley have also raised strong opposition but a further 61 residents support the housing block.

Council officers say the height of the tower is “overpowering” and the quality of design “falls short” of the standard expected.

Ben Cheal, managing director of Worthing-based Roffey Homes, said: “I am naturally disappointed with the recommendation from the planning officer, however we shall await the verdict of the committee before deciding on our next step.”