A MAJOR nine-storey development has been proposed for the seafront.

Residents near Kingsway, Hove, have been told there are plans for a 172-home residential development, known as Gateway Hove.

Developers are looking at the possibility of building the homes, along with office space, rooftop cafe and gym, in the area near the far end of the Western Laws.

Synergy Developments said it would be six to nine storeys high and comprise 24 studios, 65 one-bed apartments, 73 two-bed apartments and ten three-bed apartments.

It wants to build more than 1,000sqft of office space within the development.

The Argus:

In a letter to residents, the company said it was “committed to providing as much affordable housing as possible within this development”.

The scheme is designed “in two zones, allowing for uninterrupted views to the port area and sea from Derek Avenue”.

It said the proposals include the design principles of an “eco town scheme” with green spaces, energy generation technologies, enhanced recycling rates and community participation in social and local activities and events.

It added: “Synergy Developments is keen to hear the views of local residents before submitting a planning application for the proposed enhancements and new look of the scheme and will be writing to around 2,000 local homes in mid-June 2020 to seek their views.

“In these times of Covid-19, a planned public exhibition will now not take place, but residents will be able to provide their views online by completing an on-line questionnaire.

“A website is also being developed where people can access more information on the proposals.”

Councillor Robert Nemeth, Conservative representative for the area, said: “There has already been much discussion amongst residents about this scheme as Cllr Garry Peltzer Dunn and I shared details at an early stage in this pre-application process.

“Whilst it’s undoubtedly the case that many will be against, we do appreciate the opportunity to comment and look forward to much changing before a planning application is submitted.”

Its understood the planning application could be submitted in late summer or early autumn.

If approved, work could start in spring next year and be completed by late summer or autumn 2022.