Town hall bosses have finally approved plans to build 71 flats after four years.

The £18 million project has been given the go-ahead for one to three-bedroom flats at the former Bellerby’s College site in Park House, in Old Shoreham Road, Hove.

Almost 50 neighbours opposed the scheme saying the proposed building was too big for the space and raised concerns about the impact on the local environment.

But it was narrowly approved by Brighton and Hove City Council’s planning committee yesterday by six votes to four.

The plans by housing association The Hyde Group were refused twice in 2008 and 2009.

However after changes Councillor Phelim MacCafferty, chair of the planning committee, said he welcomed the project.

He said: “It’s great to get a real breakthrough for this site, which has been a concern for residents for many years. I welcome this sustainable scheme which fits the location and which will provide vital homes and jobs for local people.”

The project includes 26 one bedroom, 29 two bedroom and 16 three bedroom flats and 71 parking spaces.

Each property will either have a balcony or a garden and Brighton’s Chelsea Flower Show award-winner Nicholas Dexter will landscape the gardens.

During yesterday’s meeting councillor’s raised concerns about badgers on the site, that has been empty since 2007, and the height of the building.