Bus service operations to end at Lewes bus station as developer terminates licence.
The Generator Group, which owns the site and plans to redevelop it, served notice to East Sussex County Council on Tuesday (17 August).
Bus operations there must now cease by September 16th, despite no alternative location for the bus station having been agreed. Temporary bus stops will be put in place on School Hill and at Friars Walk.
Councillors say the termination of the council’s licence to use the site is unexpected as planning permission for the new development is yet to be granted, and no 'operationally satisfactory and accessible' new location has been identified - a planning requirement under the South Downs Nation Park Local Plan.
Cllr Dr Janet Baah said:
“The Generator Group has jumped the gun by evicting the bus companies without a suitable alternative arrangement being in place. And, with no planning permission, why the haste?
“The central, flat location of the bus station on Eastgate Street is vital for people to access local businesses and services in Lewes, with space and shelter for waiting and boarding. The options put on the table by the Generator Group would see passengers queueing in the wind and rain on Phoenix Causeway.”
Cllr Merlin Milner said:
“Liberal Democrats are insisting that Policy SD57 is enforced; either the bus station remains or a suitable site is delivered before the application is approved. Brighton and Hove Bus Company has sent an objection to the proposals, suggesting the demolition of the bus station could even lead to the loss of some bus services.”
Nearly 600 objections have been submitted to the Generator Group’s plans for a four storey development of houses, flats and commercial space, with no affordable housing.
The developers have given notice to local cafés and the bus companies that they plan to demolish the site. An attempt by campaigners to gain listed building status for Lewes bus station failed last week.
Councillors have asked the South Downs National Park Authority, who will decide on the application, to hold the meeting and make a decision in Lewes so local residents can make their voices heard.
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