A DEVELOPER has hit back at claims that the closure of a historic bus station will negatively affect passengers and businesses.

The Generator Group has argued that ceasing bus services from the site at Eastgate Street, Lewes, is necessary as it looks to use the site for a new, four-storey development.

The developers claim that an “operationally satisfactory location” has been identified but Lewes councillors have slammed the decision as there is no replacement site up and running.

The Argus: Lewes bus stationLewes bus station

In a statement, The Generator Group said: “After 18 months of engagement we have had to consider our options for the commercial future of the site, including the potential for alternative revenue generating uses. This regrettably necessitates securing vacant possession of the property.

“It was agreed by the owner of the site at the time that East Sussex County Council (ESCC) and the bus companies could on a temporary licence basis continue to use the tarmac areas of the bus station for dropping off and picking up passengers only.

“The site has not housed a bus station since Southdown Motor Services/ Stagecoach sold it off in 2006 when it was deemed no longer operationally necessary/viable and ceased being used as a bus station, office and bus garaging.”

The former site of the bus station is set to be used on a controversial new development including houses, flats and commercial spaces.

The Argus: The proposed development on Eastgate Street, LewesThe proposed development on Eastgate Street, Lewes

Notice was recently served by The Generator Group to stop bus services running from the area ahead of the project.

Currently, over 600 objections have been made to the proposed development.

The site had been marked as brownfield site in need of development but Lewes councillors had attempted to gain listed status for the building in order to prevent the renovations.

Alternative arrangements have been made for buses stopping in Schools Hill and Friars Walk but no permanent stops have been created.

East Sussex County Councillor Claire Dowling said: ““As a potential site has been identified, we hope [Generator] will proceed with funding its development as a matter of urgency to limit the disruption to bus passengers, businesses and residents in Lewes.”