Developer sent back to the drawing board

A DEVELOPER has shelved a controversial plan to build 10 flats.

A four-storey block in Albion Street, Lewes, behind the old Lewes Library was proposed.

But Rees Elliott, a Lewes-based developer, has withdrawn the planning application for the flats after being told planning officers would not give recommend approval for the development.

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The application, lodged in April, sparked outcry from neighbours in East Street and MP Norman Baker.

They argued the proposed building was out of character with the area, too tall and an 'inappropriate design'.

A spokesman for Lewes District Council confirmed the planning application has been withdrawn.

She said: 'Planning officers have been in discussion with developer and it was clear what the developer was offering wasn't going to go through for various reasons, including the scale of the design, the impact on the area, the lack of parking and lack of landscaping.

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'Following discussions with the planning people they withdrew the application.'

Cllr James MacCleary welcomed the developer's decision to withdraw the application.

He said: 'I think the residents will be very pleased.

'They are very realistic about the fact the land will have to be developed in some shape or form.

'But the general feeling was the proposed development was unsuitable for the site and wasn't welcomed by the local residents.

'I hope the developer will consult with the local residents in any future plans for the land.'