THE controversial owner of Eastbourne Pier says he is thoroughly disheartened after council planners blocked his latest idea.

Sheikh Abid Gulzar has been allowed to paint the last two remaining domes gold - a colour he has used to theme the iconic site.

But an application to repaint the grey roof to the entrance of the pier white was thrown out on Tuesday evening.

Planning committee members felt this would be out of keeping with the character of the town and would make the pier look plastic.

Another concern was the upkeep and maintaining a clean appearance of such a roof.

Historic England also opposed the move saying it would “cause harm to the attractive and historic appearance of the pavilions and kiosks on the pier, and the public’s appreciation and understanding of the details and materials of their construction..”

Mr Gulzar is furious and said the decision goes against public opinion.

He said: “Hundreds of people have written congratulating me on the hard work I have done at Eastbourne Pier and I know they fully supported the application.

“The general public has commended on my hard work and I believe they appreciate me taking the responsibility of the most important asset in town.

“I cannot believe this councillors who opposed the idea did not come onto the pier to gauge public opinion.

“At the meeting there were critical mentions of the previously approved application of 11 gold painted domes.

“This was not required as the applications are not connected. “

Mr Gulzar believes the decision by councillors was personal against him.

He said: “The professional advice of the planning department recommended approval whilst giving the most importance to the public benefit which outweighs any minor harms.

“There were questions asked regarding the quality of paint, work and maintenance on the pier.

“I ask where were all these people when this pier was being allowed to sink in the sea. “None of these people took the initiative or responsibility for this most important heritage asset.

“Quite ironic how there is so much keenness to save the heritage without actually taking any responsibility or doing something for it.

“Every lamp post on the seafront is white and gold and blue which somehow does not cause any harm.

“We have used the most expensive paint specially meant for marine environment.

“The Pier is looking most magnificent and royal now.

“Whilst I am heavily investing in the pier decisions like this disheartens me.”

“I would expect everyone to work together to achieve what is best for this asset and Eastbourne as a town.

“We will make it Great Eastbourne one day!!!

Committee chairman Jim Murray said he is keen to support the pier whenever possible.