Go-ahead for flats

A bid to build 24 flats at the junction of Claremont Road and Station Approach was given the green light at a Lewes District Council planning meeting last week.

A previous bid to construct a Martello tower-style complex had fallen through due to escalating costs.

But councillors approved the new design which planning officers described as 'striking'.

Cllr Eddie Collict said residents would have easy access to the railway station and the town centre.

'It is an important site and has got great advantages for people that live there.'

He added: 'If they build it the way it is shown it would be brilliant.'

Cllr Marjorie Stanton added that the site had been an eyesore for too long and welcomed the bid.

But Cllr Les Whittle was not so sure. He said the design would be 'more suitable for the Costa Brava.' However, he conceded that it would be generally accepted in the town.

Cllr Gilly Cowdrey didn't pull any punches. She said: 'I think this is a very ugly building.'

She added: 'I thought the last design was very attractive and would have been a very good gateway to the town this looks like a block of council flats.'

A better design should be found, she said. 'I would wait until we get a design that is better for the town and the town can be proud of.'

Concern was raised that high winds could cause damage to the building's prominent gables, wood cladding and flat roof.

However, planning permission was granted subject to further negotiations between planners and the developer on the building's appearance and durability.

The proposed development will comprise 19 two-bedroom and five three-bedroom flats. It will also have a central courtyard and parking for 32 cars.