A bakery chain has its sights set on an abandoned eyesore on the outskirts of the city centre.

Warrens Bakery, which claims to be the world's oldest Cornish pasty maker, hopes to set up shop in the former NatWest bank in St Dunstan's.

If given the go-ahead, the West Country firm would be just metres away from the long-standing Supreme Bake store on the opposite side of the road.

With two similar businesses in such close proximity, competition and rivalry is bound to be created.

The impact on the nearby business, however, is not the main topic on the minds of concerned residents.

Instead, the choice to opt for a vibrant sign on the side of the grade II-listed building have drawn the main criticism.

Commenting on Canterbury City Council planning website, Mary-Anne Preston said: "I object to application to the erection of that huge vertical signage on the corner of this listed building.

"It is completely awful and is not suitable for this corner of our historic residential street."

Dubbed a "billboard" by another objector, Jill De Paolis is also wary of the plans.

She said: "It is completely out of keeping in a Conservation area which contains many listed buildings, including a grade II-listed national monument and would doubtless mean that other businesses would seek to increase their signage.

"The council must seek to protect this ancient road into Canterbury."

Ever since the NatWest's closure in 2014, Domino's Pizza has continuously tried to bag permission to transform the much-sought-after site into a takeaway.

But after suffering a number of failed attempts, the chain may be beaten to the premises by Warrens Bakery, which was founded in 1860.

Mrs Preston added: "I also object on the grounds that this bakery will attract more people parking up, blocking the junction, plus the inevitable additional litter.

"How will the effects of this business differ from the previous attempts to open a Dominos Pizza takeaway?"

The proposals are to be considered for approval by the city council.

Shopkeepers at Supreme Bake did not want to speak to the Gazette when approached for a comment.