'We don't want Pelham House'

The council says that the denial was prompted by a rumour that the authority was interested in buying the historic building from East Sussex County Council.

The county council's cabinet decided last week to sell the valuable asset and move those staff who work there into County Hall. A new council chamber will be created at County Hall.

The Lewes District Council press statement said the county council's decision over Pelham House one of the town's most historic and attractive buildings 'has resulted in speculation that Lewes District Council may be interested in purchasing the property.'

The statement declared: 'Lewes District Council have no intention whatsoever of acquiring Pelham House.'

Cllr Ann De Vecchi, Leader of the district council, said: 'There is no truth in the rumour circulating at the present time. I can confirm that Lewes District Council is not considering purchasing Pelham House, although it may be of interest to new businesses who are considering coming to Lewes in the future.'

It is thought that Pelham House would have appeal as offices for the professions, although views have been expressed in the past that it could be converted to a prestige hotel, helping boost the local tourist business.