Michael Gove has turned down plans for a 1,000-home redevelopment of Brighton Marina after concluding its “homogenous” design was not good enough for such a landmark site.

The housing secretary agreed with the inspector that the Outer Harbour scheme, designed by Squire & Partners for the Brighton Marina Company, should be turned down, arguing it “lacks the exuberance and ambition that the best of Brighton’s seaside buildings exhibit”.

Gove said the poor design would also impact on local grade I listed buildings, while the homes themselves would not provide sufficient outside space for residents.

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