Divisive plans to demolish a “scruffy” town centre building to make way for new homes and shops are set to be approved this week, despite concerns over the lack of parking.

The proposals, which would see the former Hutchings Motorcycles site on the corner of South Street and Middle Street in Deal transformed, include four new commercial units on the ground floor and 11 flats above.

Planning officers at Dover District Council (DDC) have recommended the scheme for approval, saying the development would bring much-needed homes to the area while also creating jobs during construction and when the new shops open.

The site sits within a designated conservation area, but the officers' report states the design has been carefully considered to fit in with the historic character of the area.

They are satisfied the plans protect surrounding buildings and maintain the visual appeal of the street.

Mark Woolls, who owns Pier View Amusements in Deal and Dymchurch Amusement Park on Romney Marsh, is behind the development.

His scheme would see the old bike shop - which shut in 2023 - demolished alongside an adjacent building currently used by The Taphouse bar.

The Taphouse would move into one of the new units once built ensuring the business can continue trading.

However, not everyone is happy with the proposals.

Residents and Deal Town Council have objected, arguing the scheme is too large for the site and expressing concerns about its “car free” nature.

In total, five objections have been added to DDC’s portal.

Neighbour Charlotte Manners said: “I already have huge problems parking in the area, at any time of day, despite having a permit.

“How much worse will this be? Parking should be planned for when erecting new homes in the town centre.”

Deal Town Council has also warned of “a severe lack of parking” in the area and described the scheme as an “over-intensive use of the site”.

But DDC’s planning officers have defended the decision not to include any parking spaces.

In their report, they say the site’s central location - close to public transport and amenities - means parking demand could be met by nearby public car parks.

These car parks are unrestricted after 6pm, which planners believe would allow residents to park overnight.

“Residents may have to find alternative parking arrangements at certain times, but this is considered reasonable given the sustainable location of the development,” the planning officer’s report adds.

The new flats will each come with at least one bicycle parking space per bedroom, and council officers say this supports sustainable transport choices.

In addition to parking, concerns were raised about the potential impact on neighbouring properties, particularly in terms of loss of light.

Planners admit there may be some effect on nearby homes but say the impact is not severe enough to justify refusing the scheme.

Officers also reviewed potential issues relating to traffic, flood risk and wildlife and are satisfied these can all be managed through planning conditions and financial contributions from the developer.

Despite the objections, the scheme has also received support, with eight public comments submitted praising the design and welcoming investment in what some describe as a “neglected” part of town.

John Jones said: “I support this project as there is high demand for new housing in Deal and I also welcome new business into the area which provides prosperity, jobs and choice.

“The current property is scruffy and unsightly.”

This is not the first time the site has been the subject of redevelopment proposals.

In 2020, previous owner Peter Hutchings secured approval for a smaller scheme including two flats, one maisonette, and two shops.

However, those plans never progressed.

Dover’s planning committee will make the final decision on the scheme on Thursday (March 13).