A controversial plan to build a B&Q store at a prestigious marina complex has been thrown out.

A special planning committee of Eastbourne Borough Council last night rejected the proposals for the development at Sovereign Harbour.

The retail giant had wanted to build a 90,000 sq ft warehouse, garden centre and builders' yard at the harbour.

Homeowners said Eastbourne was already well-served by DIY stores such as Wickes, Focus and Homebase and said the application should be refused.

More than 400 people stood up, cheered and applauded as committee members voted unanimously to reject the application.

B&Q had a bid to build a bigger store on the same site rejected three years ago.

A representative from B&Q said the latest application would give Eastbourne an economic boost.

But more than 20 speakers opposed the application, including Eastbourne MP Nigel Waterson, East Sussex county councillors and Eastbourne borough councillors not on the committee.

Objections raised included the impact of the store at the entrance to the harbour and the extra traffic and noise it would generate.

After the meeting jubilant campaigner John Henry said: "This was the only proper decision that could have been made. The application should never have been made in the first place."

Celia Gilbert, from the Sovereign Harbour Residents Association, said: "It is a great victory and I am delighted that the committee has seen sense.

"They have listened to the views of the people of Eastbourne and said no to B&Q for the second time. I hope they get the message now."

Liberal Democrat parliamentary spokesman Stephen Lloyd said: "It is important we keep the pressure up. B&Q are likely to appeal and we need to be prepared."

There had been more than 250 letters of objection to the plans and just two in favour.

Friday October 14, 2005