Lewes is runner-up in national urbanism awards

It jointly won the runner-up title with Bath in Somerset and was only beaten by first place Shrewsbury in Shropshire.

The awards recognise some of the best, most enduring or most improvement urban environments and are voted for by AoU's 1,600 members including planners, architects and conservation officers.

The AoU description in the shortlist said: "Lewes' Saxon roots and location in the South Downs National Park create an attractive town that embraces both its cultural and physical heritage.

"This in turn has made it a desirable place to live and visit, and its public transport and walkability contributes to a lower number of car commuters compared to similarly sized towns.

"Notably the Phoenix project, which was recently given planning approval, presents an opportunity for Lewes to be at the cutting edge of truly sustainable development."

Councillor Laurence O'Connor, Cabinet Member for Planning and Infrastructure, said: "It's fantastic that Lewes has received this national recognition and being a finalist is, in itself, a great achievement.

"Those of us who live and work in Lewes district know the town has so much to offer and I am delighted this view is shared by so many people from elsewhere."

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