Plans have been put forward to build a windmill near Worthing.

It has been almost 180 years since a windmill last graced historic Highdown Hill.

There was a mill on the hill from the 14th Century until 1826, when the post mill was demolished.

Now a planning application has been submitted for a £125,000 30m-high traditional Sussex smock windmill, 250m from the site of the last Highdown Mill.

The plans have been put forward by AP McIntyre & Sons, who own McIntyre Nursery in Ferring.

They also want planning permission to build a visitor centre and shop and a car park for eight vehicles.

A planning and design statement says: "This is an opportunity for the re-establishment of a traditional Sussex smock mill, positioned almost at the historical setting.

"The traditional design and use of good materials would be in keeping with existing smock mills throughout Sussex."

The proposed location is just outside an area of outstanding natural beauty.

In the statement, McIntyre say: "The historic windmill that existed up to 1826 was sited on the top of Highdown Hill some 36m higher than that now proposed.

"This would have been a significant landmark in the area.

"The proposed windmill would have a hillside backdrop, which would subdue its impact as a local landmark."

Keith Wheway, Arun District Council's applications team leader, described the plans as unique.

He said: "I don't think we have ever had anything like it come in before."

No date has yet been set for the application to be discussed by councillors.