Market site saved from development - but it may still close

Proposals to build a two-storey office building on a site used as a market in the North Laine, was refused by Brighton and Hove's planners this week.

The Brighton and Hove Independent understands however, the market is set to close on Sunday, despite councillors turning down the application.

A market trader at Diplocks Yard, who did not want to be named, said: ''They will still go ahead with it. It will be empty for goodness knows how long.''

He said traders were packing up - and the market would be closed by Sunday.

This comes after 10 out of 11 councillors went against officers' advice, and voted to reject the plans for an office building.

The historic barrow yard at 73 North Road had been used as a market, without planning permission, since 2009.

The market comprises of fruit and vegetable stalls, bric-a-brac stalls and a cafe.

Councillor Lizzie Deane (Green) spoke in support of the market and called it ''a hidden gem'', and Phelim Mac Cafferty (Green), said it was ''peculiar spaces'' like the flea market, which make the North Laine so popular.

But Councillor Joe Miller (Conservative), the only committee member to support the application, said the applicant, Sussex Property Investments, would probably succeed in an appeal.

The agent for the applicant said no decision had been made on whether to appeal. The applicant could not be reached for comment.