Plans for a new £1.6million library have been given the go-ahead.

Work on the Newhaven facility will now begin with the existing collection to be moved into the former M&Co building in the High Street.

Lewes District Council’s planning committee granted permission for the facility’s change of use at a meeting last week.

The changes to the site will include a new roof, entrance and signage as well as lighting on the High Street facade and a new entrance and glazing in North Lane.

East Sussex County Council is now working with builders to complete the ground floor refurbishment by the end of the year.

Councillor Chris Dowling, the county council’s lead member for community services, said: “It will allow us to provide a better service to residents in a welcoming, modern environment right in the heart of Newhaven.

“We know from the feedback we’ve received from the public that this is an eagerly-awaited development which will help to regenerate this part of the town centre, and receiving planning permission is an important step forward.

“We’d like to reassure residents that plans are progressing fast behind the scenes and we’re very much looking forward to the new library opening its doors for the first time.”

For more details visit www.eastsussex.gov.uk.

Fuel leak at petrol station FIREFIGHTERS were called |to a fuel leak at a petrol |station.

About five litres of petrol |spilt from a car at the |East Grinstead petrol station in London Road.

Sand was used to make |the area safe following |the spill, which happened |at about 8.30pm on |Thursday.