Ambitious plans for a £10 million tower designed to bring Newhaven into the 21st century collapsed last night

Developers Sign of Four had hoped the 240ft landmark building, made of glass and steel, would breathe new life into the port.

But last night councillors at a meeting of Lewes District Council's planning committee rejected the proposal. One described it as "laughable".

The 18-storey cylindrical tower, earmarked for Bridge Street, would have been nine times higher than surrounding buildings and one of the tallest in Sussex.

A bar-restaurant and shops would have been on the ground and first-floor levels, with offices and 22 flats occupying the rest of the building.

Its visual impact was one of the main points of objection raised at the meeting at Denton Island Training and Business Centre, Newhaven.

Councillor David Fritton, who tabled the motion against the application, said the tower would be overbearing and an eyesore in an area of outstanding natural beauty.

Conservation watchdog English Heritage wrote to the council expressing concern about the startling impact it would have on the town.

Councillor Roger Frost agreed: "The tower is so entirely out of keeping as to be laughable. Until Newhaven makes up its mind whether it wants to be a quiet, historic town with a fishing port or a bustling access to the Continent I'm afraid this will have to be put on hold."

Concerns were also raised about the allocation of 22 car parking spaces in the basement of the tower which planning officers said was up to 176 spaces short.

Sheila Lovebridge was the only Newhaven resident to speak at the meeting, although more than 300 signed a petition opposing the scheme.

She said: "The tower is completely unsuitable for a fishing port . The parking allocation is ludicrous and the idea of people taking buses and trains is just wishful thinking."

She added: "How are small businesses going to pay the rent when we already have lots of shopkeepers in Newhaven who can't?"

Councillor Gilly Cowdrey was in favour. She said: "I think this is the best thing that has been suggested for Newhaven for a long time."

Councillors voted six to two in favour of the motion to refuse outline planning permission.