Residents fear a harbour will be turned into a concrete jungle if plans to introduce more than 70 flats and houses are approved.

Members of the Sovereign Harbour Residents Association (Shra) say the plan for 24 town houses, 54 apartments and parking for 120 cars would effectively cut the harbour in half.

They believe the area needs bars, cafes and restaurants and not more homes.

The proposal, made by David Wilson Homes, was due to be discussed by members of the Eastbourne Borough Council planning and licensing committee this evening.

Resident David Hitchcock wrote to the council on behalf of Shra, saying: "The application fails in that it does not promote the harbour at all.

"The housing will in fact sever the harbour north from south.

"We want the council to put pressure on the developer to amend the plan for leisure facilities."

Head of planning Tim Cookson summarised 15 points of objection, including the fear of creating a concrete jungle, lack of parking spaces, lack of facilities for tourists and restriction of views for residents.

The site was given outline consent in 1997 to be developed for housing.

Planning officers have recommended the application for approval with several conditions.