A sightseeing bus could be rerouted from an historic square – after householders claimed it was damaging their homes and making streets unsafe.

The Brighton and Hove Bus and Coach Company-operated open top bus was granted a licence to drive through the Grade I listed Sussex Square and Lewes Crescent in Kemp Town, Brighton, in March.

Bosses claim they want to show off all the great sights and historic buildings the city has to offer.

But residents claim it is bringing the area down and posing a threat to people who have to cross the road to use the communal gardens in the middle of the estate.

Householder Christopher Goss, speaking on behalf of the residents, said: “The estate is a beautiful and cherished part of Brighton and we as residents want to share it with our community.

“We believe, however, that riding on a double decker bus, of up to 18 tons fully laden, which is travelling at speed through the estate is not the way to enjoy, preserve and share its beauty and atmosphere.

“We very much welcome visitors but believe strongly that the estate can best be enjoyed on foot.

“For those unable to explore it on foot, the best way to get a good viewof the buildings and gardens in their entirety is from the bus in Marine Parade or Eastern Road.”

The buses run daily at half hourly intervals from 10.35am to 6.35pm from the end of April to the end of September.

However, residents want the route to be stopped once the current permit expires this year.

Roger French, of Brighton and Hove Bus Company, said: “We have had some great feedback about our sightseeing tours. We feel Brighton and Hove is a great place and we want to show off as much of it as possible to our tourists.

“They have been fascinated by Sussex Square and we want to continue showing it to as many people as possible.”

Mr Goss said the regular trips were damaging the protected buildings.

However, he admitted it was difficult for the enlisted civil engineers to prove this.

Ian Davey , the council’s transport committee chairman, said: “Local authorities have very limited powers to force bus companies to change routes.”

However, Coun Davey said he would discuss the issue at a transport committee and look to work together with residents for a solution.