ALBION bosses are “flabbergasted” after their £16 million plans for a stadium hotel were given the red card by planning officers.

Brighton and Hove City Council's officers have advised members of the authority’s planning committee to reject plans for the 150 bedroom hotel later this month.

The Argus understands that they have objected to the aesthetics of the new design and complained that the hotel will impact on views of the stadium from Lewes.

A source close to the club said: “It’s absolutely bonkers, everybody at The Amex is absolutely flabbergasted by this.”

The new hotel has been drawn up by the same award-winning architects KSS Design Group - which were behind the American Express Community Stadium.

The club had hoped that the proposed Brighton Aloft hotel could be up and running by next summer but could be set for a major setback when the plans are discussed on February 17.

Albion bosses have said the new hotel, proposed for land between the American Express Community Stadium’s east stand and the railway line, would generate £6 million for the local economy, contribute £314,000 in business rates and provide 82 jobs for local residents.

The site would feature a restaurant, bar and gym as well as a specialist cancer unit in the basement open to NHS patients, treating up to 30 people a day.

As the land falls on the local authority boundary, Lewes District Council will also make a decision on the plans but have yet to set a date for their planning committee meeting.

Liz Costa, vice chairwoman of the official Albion supporters’ club, said: “That part of the city really needs some hotel accommodation, there is nothing in that part of Brighton.

“The council is cutting off its nose to spite its face if you think of all the money it could bring into the city from opposition supporters who would come for a match and stay for the weekend.

“We will win in the end even if we get there later rather than sooner.”

Paul Samrah, who led the Falmer For All to get the stadium built in its current location, said: “It’s very difficult to fathom, it can’t be an issue with sightlines or anything like that.

“I wouldn’t say the hotel is critical for the club’s future business model but it will certainly help revenue.

“No doubt the club will get it through eventually, it’s just a matter of time.”

A decision on the plans will be made at a planning committee meeting at 2pm on Wednesday, February 17 at Portslade Town Hall.