Plans for more new council houses along a main road have been recommended for approval.

Gravesham Borough Council has submitted an application to demolish flats in St Patrick's Gardens and St Columba's Close, Gravesend.

It would see numbers 1-12 and 36-41 St Patrick's Gardens and the even numbers only between 28 and 42 St Columba's Close knocked down – totalling 26 units.

The proposed development off Valley Drive would be 46 affordable properties – a mixture of flats, maisonettes and houses.

It would also be a mix of one, two, three and four-bedroom properties.

If approved, it would include a new vehicle and pedestrian access, amenity space including an outdoor gym and communal garden, bin storage, 58 cycle spaces and 34 parking spaces – although none dedicated to visitors.

It forms the next phase of the council's regeneration strategy as it looks to redevelop its own substandard accommodation and brownfield or underused sites into affordable homes.

The design and access statement added the plans are also about improving a "sense of community and safety" within the area.

The local authority is building a similar project nearby in Valley Drive where 36 bedsits were knocked down to make way for 48 new homes.

Two public consultation were held last year where there was "overall support for new homes" as it would "improve security" as there are more people around.

According to the documents provided, people liked the idea of a play space and outdoor gym but raised concerns over car parking.

Residents also highlighted anti-social behaviour and requested increased CCTV and lighting which the council will propose during the detailed design stage.

The flats are occupied by council tenants but the local authority will be helping them to find alternative accommodation if the plans are approved.

The current properties were built in the late 1950s and early 1960s.

As the applicant is the local planning authority, council officers have referred it to the planning committee.

They have recommended it for approval subject to planning conditions and the completion of a unilateral agreement.

It will be discussed at a meeting on Wednesday, February 1.