An "eyesore" on Worthing seafront will be given an art deco facelift after controversial plans were given the go ahead.

The Warnes Hotel site in Worthing, which has plagued the seafront for 14 years, went under the spotlight at a public enquiry.

Now, Secretary of State Michael Meacher has given the green light to Roffey Homes Ltd's development of 72 luxury flats at Marine Parade.

He said: "It has been designed with respect for its context on all three frontages and will enhance the character and appearance of the conservation area."

The inquiry was ordered because critics feared the development would overshadow the area.

Residents have awaited redevelopment of the famous site, which has stood empty since the grade-II listed Warnes Hotel was gutted by fire, for years.

Ben Cheal, director of Worthing-based Roffey Homes, said: "We are very happy with what we think is the correct decision.

"The town wants to see the site redeveloped. We look forward to building a development we hope people will be proud of for years to come.

"It will almost be a landmark building on the seafront but will still fit in with the surrounding area."

At six-stories high, the building, overlooking Steyne Gardens, will include underground car parking spaces.

Roffey Homes is contributing £135,000 towards social housing in the area, £65,000 to the town's Greening the Borough initiative, £25,000 to improve cycling facilities, £8,000 to improve highway facilities and £5,000 towards school places for children whose families may move in.

Councillor Bob Clare, chairman of Worthing Borough Council's development control committee, said: "This is great news. The flats will fill in a nasty hole and may act as a catalyst for improving other area of the town."

At the public enquiry, critics suggested an art deco style was not in keeping with the area. But the architect Michael Warner said he chose the design because it would complement the art deco features of the town.

Worthing Society chairman Robert Elleray said today: "If the plans have been given the go ahead as they were submitted, we would have certain criticisms. We were not completely happy with repeating the art deco style."

Worthing Borough Council originally gave planning permission in March last year, subject to changes in design and discussions about including social housing units.

Development control manager James Appleton James said today: "The council is obviously pleased that this decision will enable this key site to be developed on this part of the seafront.

"The site has been an eyesore for years. However, it is clearly disappointing the Government has taken over a year to agree with the council's original decision to grant planning permission."

The firm will build nine social housing units in nearby High Street in the town centre.

Work is expected to start on the flats within the next 12 months.