Decision on 18-Storey Port Tower Postponed Again

A resolution concerning proposals for a substantial apartment complex, which includes an 18-storey tower block situated near the entrance to an East Sussex port, has been deferred once more. On Wednesday, Lewes District Council’s planning committee reviewed the plans for 126 flats and duplexes on land located in Beach Road in Newhaven. Council meetings scheduled to discuss this project had already been postponed on two prior occasions, following requests from the applicant, KSD Support Services. KSD Support Services had requested final comments from East Sussex Highways for the application, along with specific details addressing concerns about noise. The Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS) indicated that council planning officers had recommended the scheme for approval. The report submitted to the committee stated that the proposed development would “deliver significant social, environmental and economic benefit”. It further specified that this would be achieved through the provision of much-needed smaller housing units, high-quality buildings, as well as landscaping and biodiversity enhancements. The site had previously been granted planning permission for a mixed-use development, including an 80-bedroom hotel, which was never constructed. The LDRS reports that the 18-storey tower has proven particularly contentious among local residents. The council has received 197 letters of objection, in addition to a petition signed by 187 individuals. The petition, which was submitted by Newhaven’s Liberal Democrat group, stated: “The 18-storey high tower will be higher than Nelson’s Column, and will completely change not just the local street scene but the whole of Newhaven.” Objections have also been raised by Newhaven Port and Properties Ltd. Committee members voted six to two to defer the decision to a future meeting, pending further discussion with the developer. For updates, follow BBC Sussex on Facebook, on X, and on Instagram. Story ideas can be sent to southeasttoday@bbc.co.uk or via WhatsApp at 08081 002250. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites. Read about our approach to external linking.