A house in multiple occupation (HMO) where a fatal fire broke out could now be demolished - so new homes can be built.

Much-loved local busker James Ronayne, known as Punky Jim, died in the devastating blaze at Mill House in Salters Lane, Faversham, last year.

New pictures from inside the building show the extent of the damage caused by the inferno, believed to have been sparked by an electric scooter.

A bid to knock down the 23-bed property has now been lodged. Planning documents say the aim is to “free up the site for future residential development of an improved quality for the conservation area”.

West One chartered surveyors, submitting the bid on behalf of Leah Reiner’s firm LREIN Ltd, write: “The works will include demolition of the main building and retention of part of the flank wall to form a new boundary wall.

“The remainder of the property is considered structurally unsafe and requires demolition.”

The plans submitted to Swale Borough Council include harrowing images from inside the HMO following the blaze on August 10 last year.

Ten fire engines, a command support unit, and a height vehicle were called to the scene.

An inquest held in December revealed how, when firefighters entered the building, they found Mr Ronayne lying in the corridor.

But the intense heat forced them to leave and send in a second team, who pulled him from the property.

The 44-year-old, a former pupil of the Chaucer School in Canterbury, was well-known for busking all over Kent, though he had hoped to swap performing on the streets for a full-time music career.

Following his tragic death, his sister Samantha paid tribute, writing: “His loss has left Faversham speechless. He was such a well-loved person, such an amazing character.”

A 53-year-old was arrested on suspicion of causing arson but was later released without charge.

Kent Fire and Rescue Service previously said the cause of the fire is “believed to be linked to an e-scooter".