A multi-million pound complex could become the new neighbour of Sussex's most famous art deco building.

Ahrends, Burton and Koralek Architects (ABK) beat off competition from two other teams of architects to build the striking design next door to the De La Warr Pavilion on Bexhill seafront.

All three contenders were given a brief to submit plans for a high- quality, mixed-use development comprising a 60-bedroom hotel, office space, apartments and ground-level shops.

ABK's design features two interlocking curves which accommodate a slope-roofed hotel in a grand arc facing the sea.

It also plans a new railway booking hall fronting Devonshire Square in the nearby town centre, restoration of railway buildings and an L-shaped gallery space at the pavilion.

The proposals aim to revive Bexhill by creating 500 jobs in five years, attracting business, enterprise and tourists and giving young people a reason to stay in the town.

John Shaw, director of regeneration group Sea Space, which was on the panel, said: "I would stress that we have appointed an architectural team, not selected a final design.

"The challenge now is to review all development proposals and take on board the wide range of views expressed and reconcile these with the shared objective of creating a vibrant town centre for Bexhill."

Peter Ahrends, of ABK, said: "This is a great opportunity for our design team to create important 21st Century architecture complementary to the De La Warr Pavilion, one of the rare Thirties icons in the UK."

However, opposition to the plans is mounting.

Almost 800 people have signed petitions against the ideas and business leaders have said the putting green next to the pavilion is the wrong site.

Members of Bexhill Chamber of Commerce also said the public consultation process was too short.

A silent protest rally is being held on the seafront tomorrow at 2.30pm.

Six months will now be given to ABK to finalise its plans before a planning application is submitted.

Building work could start at the end of next year.

Monday May 10, 2004