CONCERNS over cliff stability and invasion of privacy have failed to halt plans for a block of 10 flats in Southbourne.

In July last year residents raised concerns about cracks appearing in cliff top paths near the proposed development site at 139-141 Southbourne Overcliff Drive, which is currently home to two bungalows.

However, the Harlequin Homes scheme, comprising a four storey block with one floor sunk below ground level, received outline planning permission as the council's geo-engineer was satisfied there was no danger.

On Monday the plan was back before the board for more detailed consideration, and was approved by nine votes to one.

A neighbour, Paul Leadbitter, told members the new block would have line of sight from its balconies into his skylight windows. He also claimed the cliff cracks had grown over the past few months.

Speaking to the Daily Echo after the meeting, he said: "As far as I am concerned, I showed them a diagram that proves that the balconies on those flats will have a clear and close view into my bathrooms, which, incidentally, are often used by our young grandchildren.

"Any reasonable person would obviously agree that that is dangerous and unacceptable."

However, at the meeting planning officer Simon Gould said: "The primary view from these balconies is clearly towards the sea. That is why they are there, that is what people will want."

He said the applicant had extended the walls past the balconies to reduce overlooking, and residents of the block would have to put themselves at risk by leaning over in order to look into the skylights.

Mr Leadbitter also told the Echo he intended to report the council's decision to the Local Government Ombudsman.

Board member Philip Stanley-Watts, who voted against the scheme, told the meeting he was still concerned about the cliff stability issue.

"To me, the cracks there at the cliff edge are very near the proposed development and seem to have some significance," he said.

However Mr Gould said cliff stability had been dealt with at the outline permission stage last year and members would have to be "very careful" if they sought to use it to oppose the bid.