RESIDENTS have claimed their privacy is being invaded by a new restaurant which overlooks their homes.

It has been claimed that diners would be able to peer through the windows or into the gardens of around 100 people.

The residents in Palmeira Square, Hove, have now launched a campaign to try and change the building's design.

One of those affected, David Keighley, said: "Diners and drinkers at the bar have a lovely view - directly into our living rooms, our gardens and our bedrooms.

"We have complained to the environmental health department about this, but they seem curiously lethargic in their response.

"It seems that although our privacy and quality of life has been seriously and brutally compromised the burden of proof is on us to prove that we are inconvenienced."

The row centres around the new restaurant, called The Square, which has been built at 79 Western Road, which is due to open later this year.

The premises used to be a printing shop but has been totally gutted, refurbished and turned into the eatery.

Councillor Paul Elgood, who represents the Brunswick and Adelaide ward, said: "The concern is that, particularly in the summer months, the people at this restaurant will be looking over them in their gardens.

"We hope that the owner of the premises will work with the residents to help resolve this."

Residents also claim that new freezer and air conditioning equipment is causing noise nuisance to them.

Brighton and Hove City Council confirmed that formal planning permission has not yet been granted for the business.

It said officers have been in negotiation with the owner to try and minimise the impact of the building and that changes have been made recently.

A spokeswoman also said it would be prepared to take enforcement action if the restaurant was found to be in breach of planning rules.

She added: "If the use actually commences without the appropriate consents then we will give very serious consideration to enforcement proceedings in order to alleviate any harm caused."

The Argus was unable to contact the owner of The Square.

Are planning laws strict enough to protect residents' privacy?