More than 30 campaigners protested outside Brighton Town Hall this morning at the start of a public inquiry into plans to build homes near a nature reserve.
The demonstrators were objecting to a scheme by Whitgift Homes to build 35 houses off Wilson Avenue, Whitehawk.
The proposed development was rejected by Brighton and Hove Council planners in July last year. The company is now appealing against the decision.
The 1.8-acre site at the top of Wilson Avenue is next to a designated nature reserve and has been earmarked by the council as a site of nature conservation importance.
The objectors include representatives of the Friends of Whitehawk Hill, Sussex Botanical Recording Society, allotment holders and local residents.
Dave Bangs, secretary of the Friends of Whitehawk Hill, said: "People living in the area feel very strongly about this development."
Government inspector David Fenton intends to visit the site later today. His decision will be announced at a later date.
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