THESE are the first pictures of how the site of a former private school which closed in 2014 could look.

Jaynic Properties Limited, based in Berkshire, wants to build up to 238 homes on the site of the former Newlands Independent School, off Eastbourne Road, Seaford.

The school shut at short notice in July 2014.

It closed three weeks ahead of schedule with security staff turning up unannounced.

Staff had been told it was due to close on August 31 of that year.

Their employers, Newlands Schools Limited, had ceased trading and was insolvent.

Now the property company has submitted an outline planning application to Lewes District Council to build on what is now a vacant site.

Managing director Nic Rumsey said: "Our proposals provide an opportunity to create an extremely attractive residential scheme in a wonderful setting.

"The site is one of the only major sites available in Seaford, with any expansion of the town constrained both by the sea and the surrounding South Downs National Park.

"Our planning application was first prepared, then refined, following extensive discussions with council planning officers, district and town councillors.

"It follows a public consultation event at the end of last year where there was a broad consensus in support of the residential development of the site."

Properties range from starter homes to larger family houses, and there will be up to 40 per cent affordable homes.

The Newlands School building on the site was constructed in the early 20th century and will be retained, having been recognised for its local importance. It will be converted into apartments.

Around 50 per cent of the site is likely to remain green, as public open space with a new equipped children’s play area and garden space.

The proposals also include a new tree-lined boulevard leading up to the former school building, which will provide enhanced views from Eastbourne Road.

If the plans go ahead, the developer will make a financial contribution to local services in Seaford under Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) payments.

Local councils will decide exactly how the financial contributions will be distributed to existing and new facilities.