A V-shaped block of flats rising nine storeys will form the centrepiece of a landmark development in Newhaven.

The building is part of phase two of the West Quay development, which has just been given the go-ahead by planners.

Land between the waterfront and Fort Road, which includes the Russell Simpson Marine boat park, a scuba diving centre and various vacant buildings, is set to be transformed with new homes and marina facilities all accessed by an upgraded and realigned riverside road.

Lewes district councillors have given provisional permission for 92 flats in three blocks - including 52 in a V-shaped "gateway" building - and the rest in two marina buildings, up to six storeys.

The development will also include six new shop units, with 13 flats above at the Fort Road/Riverside junction, opposite the Sheffield Arms.

The application split the town, with the council receiving 71 letters of objection, citing concerns about the buildings' height and design and the effect on the local infrastructure.

The council also received 55 letters of support from people believing the proposal would transform the area and provide positive regeneration.

Both views were expressed at a public meeting in March, attended by about 120 residents.

Planning officers recommended approval, saying the site was presently under used and in need of improvement. They said the V-shaped building next to the river - 26m at its highest point - was acceptable in a "gateway" location, concluding the proposal would be a "further significant progression in the regeneration of the town".

Wednesday July 30, 2003