River-side homesplans approved

Plans were approved for five three storey homes at Bridge Point, St Margarets Terrace.

The plans also include the provision of a river-side walk which has been particularly welcomed by the planning committee.

There was initially strong opposition to the development in Rye with the Town Council claiming the original proposal for four storey homes would be too large and imposing for the site, but plans were later amended to make the homes three storeys.

Rye councillor Sam Souster said: “A complete tourist trail from the Fish Quay to Strand Quay has always been an ambition.

“This development does include the improvement of the adjacent section of the footpath which is appreciated, but part is obstructed and built on and Rother Council and East Sussex County Council should collectively address this.

“What is present in the vicinity at the moment does not sit comfortably with what is proposed on this application.

“There are two large haulage companies adjacent operating 24 hours a day, seven days a week, which together generate many HGV movements and noise.

“With the number of storeys being reduced from four to three and so reducing the height by around 1.5 metres, which was a concern to the Town Council, means I will support the application as, perhaps, the start of improving this important and historical part of Rye.

Approval was unanimous.