Campaigners have won their battle to see an East Sussex landmark continue as a centre for the arts.

Last night councillors unanimously approved plans to prepare a bid for more than £4 million of National Lottery money to save Bexhill's De La Warr Pavilion.

It follows months of pressure by supporters of the seaside venue, who were angered at Rother Council's attempts to sell the building to a private buyer.

More than 5,000 people signed a petition to keep the De La Warr in the ownership of the town as an arts venue, amid interest in the building from pub giant JD Wetherspoon.

Last night, the council's regeneration and tourism commitee voted to press ahead with lottery funding instead.

The authority will now make a submission to the Arts Heritage Lottery Fund. Councillors also agreed a business plan setting out how the De La Warr will operate in years to come.

The council wants to develop the venue to the same ideals as its founder, Earl De La Warr.

As part of its bid for cash, the council has pledged to develop the building as an arts centre and place for community gatherings and events.

Improved theatre events, a new gallery, bars and restaurants and a shop are also planned. The council forecasts the pavilion's total income by 2004-5 to be more than £1.7 million, a rise of more than 400,000.

It is hoped the extra income will ease the burden on taxpayers of maintenance at the Grade I listed building.