THE transformation of a former brewery in Lewes into a major arts venue – with a cinema, restaurant and education facilities – has won a regional planning award.

The venue, known as Depot, Lewes Community Screen, is on the site of the former Harvey’s brewery depot, close to Lewes Station.

It was crowned the overall winner at the Royal Town Planning Institute South East Awards for Planning Excellence.

The redevelopment – undertaken by Burrell Foley Fischer and the South Downs National Park Authority – also includes an orchard, wild flower garden and landscaping.