Councillors have blocked the demolition of a bonfire society's historic base, with one calling the plan the worst he had ever seen.

Lewes Council's planning committee unanimously rejected proposals to build three town houses on the site of the building in St Johns Terrace, Lewes.

Councillor Michael Chartier said: "This is the most appalling scheme I have seen since I have been on this committee."

The building, home to the Commercial Square Bonfire Society for more than 150 years, could have been bulldozed if the plans were approved.

But councillors were adamant, despite their officers' recommendation that planning permission be granted.

Rod Taylor, owner of the building, said he was disappointed and surprised.

He said: "The bonfire society uses the building very infrequently. Prior to our application, we were in negotiations with the society for a period of 18 months.

"Agreement for a new tenancy was reached and put in the hands of solicitors but no further action from their solicitor was forthcoming.

"I feel disappointed because we have been working on this scheme for nearly a year and it's quite clear we achieved all the requirements of the planners."

Councillors raised concerns about the impact of the development on the surrounding conservation area and on the Elephant and Castle pub next door.