A derelict care home in a “prime location” has hit the market for more than £1 million - and could be turned into “residential properties or holiday lets”.

Marketed by Savills Auctions, the former Grove Villa site in Mill Road, Deal, comprises four buildings, parking and gardens.

The 40-bed care home was closed in 2019 after being rated “inadequate” by the Care Quality Commission.

Three years later, in September 2022, Impact Developments Ltd sought permission from Dover District Council (DDC) to flatten the residential home off Mill Road and erect 28 homes in its place.

But that original bid divided residents, with 96 writing to DDC to back it and another 90 writing letters of objection. It was eventually voted down by the planning committee.

However, in June this year, a revised scheme for 13 dwellings received approval.

Following demolition, the scheme would be split across four two-storey buildings - one block of two semi-detached houses, one terrace of three houses, and two blocks of four terraced properties.

Each home will have its own parking space and the whole site will have an additional two visitor spaces.

Parkside, the road just next to the development, is set to get a vehicle security gate under the plans. Images show the black metal gate across the road leading into the estate.

The plot was put up for sale earlier this month, with Steve Cane of Savills Auctions saying the “substantial site” presents a “rare and exciting redevelopment opportunity”.

He added: “With planning permission already secured for the demolition of the existing structures and the creation of 13 new dwellings, the site offers a unique chance to transform a well-located plot into residential homes or holiday lets, subject to further consents.

“Its prime location on the Kent coast, combined with close proximity to independent shops, boutiques, cafés, pubs, restaurants, and the beach, makes this a highly desirable spot for both homeowners and tourists that a buyer could readily capitalise on.”

Last year, worrying pictures showed children “dicing with death” after climbing on roofs and into windows at the abandoned care home.

Groups of youths were able to access the derelict site over several months, prompting worried residents and calls to police.

Neighbours claimed youngsters had accessed the previously unsecured land, smashing windows and setting off small fires.