Neighbours raise banner to oppose depot bid

Visitors and commuters coming from Lewes Station are now confronted with the message: 'Enjoy the view...it's your last chance'.

Lansdown Place residents Ursula and Peter Appleton came up with the idea and with a little help from their neighbours were able to hang the banner from the back of their home.

Last month Lewes-based developer Rees Elliott unveiled plans to build flats, offices, shops, a cafe and a restaurant on the site.

The proposal has generated fierce criticism with many residents saying it would be too big for the site.

Ursula Appleton told the Express: 'The buildings proposed will be facing the station and will be the first thing people see when they come into the town by train.

'It's totally inappropriate, it looks like a shopping mall and I don't think it's Lewes at all.

'To propose to build that behind a Grade 2 listed terrace shows a disregard for the residents of jaw-dropping proportions.'

Robert Clark, owner of Academy Music in Lansdown Place has also spoken out against the proposed development

He said: 'It's totally inappropriate for the area.

'I think Lewes would be far better off as part of the South Downs National Park and I'm absolutely sure that would help to retain its identity as a county town, and not agree a horrendous development like this.

'We all want sensible development in the right places and in the right time but I think the council is not listening to the people of Lewes.'

Developer Rees Elliott, has held two consultation evenings with residents and Martin Elliott, a partner in the company, has pledged to take the opinions and comments into account before he submits a planning application to the district council.