Floodlights bid fails

CONTROVERSIAL plans to upgrade floodlights at Seaford Town Football Club have been rejected.

The club's goal to gain promotion to the first division proved to be the downfall of its bid.

Its aspirations meant it was likely there would be greater noise and disturbance from a larger crowd and that light would spill into the homes of neighbours, said objectors.

The club wanted to erect eight 15-metre floodlight columns to illuminate the Crouch Gardens pitch. It argued it needed the lights to play in the first division where they are compulsory.

At a Lewes District Council planning committee meeting on Wednesday Kevin Moore, club vice-chairman, said players would be forced to play for other towns with better facilities and prospects.

But Seaford Mayor Les Whittle said: 'I have every sympathy for the club but we have to consider other people, the residents.'