Plans to build a mixed-use development including 156 flats, retail and office space have been recommended for approval by council officers.

The major proposal for Lord Street Car Park in Gravesend town centre is to be discussed at planning committee next week.

The applicant is Park Central Developments Ltd which proposes to erect four to seven-storey buildings with a 10-storey tower on the current temporary car park in Lord Street, near the junction with Parrock Street.

It would provide 156 build to rent apartments including a mix of one and two bedroom and studio flats, seven live work units.

There will be 20% sold at a discounted market rate.

The development would also provide around 2,612sqm of commercial space, including office, retail and workshops, and a new, one-way road joining onto Parrock Street, if approved.

There has been 51 car parking spaces allocated for the whole proposal of which 15 would be accessible for disabled people, 20 motorcycle spaces and 368 spaces for bikes.

Concerns from Gravesham council parking services were raised over the number of parking spaces but Kent County Council's team believed it to be acceptable for a town centre location.

In the design and access statement, the applicants said: "The site is situated in what is technically a 'sustainable location' i.e a town centre site.

"We are proposing to build on the government's ambition and policies for a modal change from cars to walking, cycling and public transport use."

The applicants hope the plans, if approved, will enhance the area and contribute to the growth of the town.

It added: "The aim is to use this building as a catalyst for change, helping to revitalise what would otherwise be an underwhelming site that currently does not provide architectural or urban significance to the town centre."

The application has received five objections and one neutral comment from the public.

Plans were approved in 2004 for the demolition of a multi-storey car park and the building of 100 flats on the land.

But the developers involved handed the site back to the council after the car park was knocked down as they couldn't afford the project.

Since then the site has been used as a temporary car park for permit holders and as a Covid testing centre.

Due to the size of the proposal, the application will have to be considered by Gravesham Borough Council planning committee.

Officers have recommend it is approved subject to the applicant agreeing to pre-commencement conditions and the completion of a section 106 agreement.

The summary report said the development is sustainable, "accords with national and local planning policy" and section 106 financial contributions will be made.

It added: "The proposed development for a net increase of 156 dwellings would offer a significant contribution towards meeting local housing need."

The application will be discussed at planning committee on Wednesday, February 1.