A former bank in Worthing may be saved from demolition after conservation watchdogs intervened.

Developers Roffey Homes want to knock down the distinctive Barclays Bank building at the junction of Heene Road and Rowlands Road.

After bulldozing it and a neighbouring former nursing home, the company wants to build 24 flats on the site, in the shadow of Manor Lea apartment block.

The developers argue the vacant nursing home is a rambling and much-altered structure, while the bank is disused.

But, despite nine letters supporting the scheme, councillors meeting on Tuesday are being urged to refuse permission.

The Worthing Society conservation group said the yellow brick bank, with its unusual spire, added much needed character to the town.

A report to the planners concludes: "There is no objection in principle to the residential redevelopment of the site.

"However, given the design quality of the existing buildings on the site, it is important a similar quality of development is built."