In addition, 93 per cent of organisations did not back the move. A total of 2,151 responses were received.
Despite this, the government confirmed last week that East Saltdean, Telscombe and Peacehaven would become part of Brighton & Hove City Council from 2028. Only Falmer was dropped from the plan.
Councillor Zoe Nicholson (pictured), Leader of Lewes District Council, said: “The government’s decision to force through Brighton & Hove’s boundary‑expansion plan is a profound and deliberate rejection of local democracy.
“Its own consultation results show this beyond doubt - 80% of residents opposed the modifications, yet government ministers have chosen to ignore this landslide in public opinion.
“What makes this decision even more indefensible is that the government has as yet not provided a single bit of evidence to support its claims that annexing these communities is essential for economic and housing growth. Where is the analysis to support that? Where is an assessment of the impact of making such a huge change to the lives of people, to their tenancies, on social care, and essential services for children - it’s all absent.
“It’s an imposed boundary change, but not for the benefit of the people who actually live in our coastal towns.
“The decision treats residents with contempt, and as I have already stated, all options remain on the table for challenging this affront to the will of local people.”
The Government’s report shows a total of 2,026 responses were received from individuals from within the affected areas of East Sussex or Brighton.
To put that into context the total population of those four areas is almost 24,000. A further 283k live in Brighton and Hove.
Councillor Bella Sankey, Leader of Brighton & Hove City Council, said of the Government’s plan: “This is an important decision for residents that reflects the natural and practical connections between the special and unique communities in East Saltdean, Telscombe, Peacehaven and Brighton & Hove.
“We recognise that there have been strongly held views on Local Government Reorganisation, and some residents will remain sceptical.”
“As we embark on the next stage of this process, I hope that we can start from a point of shared history, deep connections, and genuine partnership.”