Plans to bring a run-down hotel back into operation have been approved.

Members of Wealden District Council's development control sub-committee have approved the scheme.

The George Hotel in George Street, Hailsham, was closed last year after falling into decline.

Owners of the Grade II-listed building, Pennant Inns, applied to build a three-storey block of flats in the pub grounds and convert outbuildings into offices and shops.

A council spokeswoman said: "The plan was approved but there were a number of conditions attached to it."

The proposals had attracted criticism from town councillors and conservation groups concerned about the height and presence of the flats in a conservation area.