Conservationists are furious about plans to demolish a landmark seaside pub in Worthing to make way for housing.

A report on plans to demolish The Litten Tree pub, formerly the Wine Lodge, on Worthing seafront has been branded "nonsense" by the Worthing Society.

Applicant Maine Investments Ltd asked a Horsham architect to give an independent opinion on plans to demolish the popular pub, renowned for its Spanish-style architecture.

Roy Worskett says in his report: "The present building is clearly rather alien to the character of the seafront - rather more reminiscent of the poorer parts of Los Angeles than Worthing.

"There is sometimes a case for retaining a building that, because it is extraordinary or flamboyant, makes a lively contribution to an area when normal judgements on the character of a conservation area could be set aside.

"However, the so-called 'Spanish' character of the present building is, in my view, rather poorly done."

The Litten Tree is set to be replaced with a four-storey block of flats in a conservation area.

Robert Elleray, chairman of the Worthing Society conservation group, said he would fight the application.

He said: "This is the ideal place for a restaurant overlooking the sea, and when it was that I visited it many times.

"It began as a nursing home in the early 1850s, but was transformed into a place with a distinct Spanish flavour after damage during the war.

"We think it is one of only a few buildings on the seafront which gives it real character."

The application is expected to go before Worthing Council planners on June 12.