Plans have been revealed to transform a rundown town centre off-licence into a four-storey block of flats and two new shops.

Willow Walk Developments has this week unveiled its proposals for the Herne Bay High Street branch of Bargain Booze.

The company is hoping to build a basement workshop and thirteen flats above the one-storey store – which it has labelled “dilapidated”. The ground-floor premises will be split in two.

Planning agent Kevin Ram, from firm London Consultants, says the owner of the plot is yet to decide whether or not Bargain Booze will remain at the site.

Mr Ram expects the flats, completed to “a high standard”, will be available for rent.

“It will be a good place for young adults or people who want to move out of their family home,” he said.

“The development will give the site a new beginning; it will have an impact.”

"The proposals will provide a new, modern building which will replace a dilapidated and rundown shop unit..."

Mr Ram also says the creation of the workshop and new stores will create more jobs in the town.

Documents submitted to the council by Willow Walk state the plans will improve the centre of town by providing an “attractive building that enhances the character of the area”.

They add: “The proposals will provide a new, modern building [which will replace] a dilapidated and rundown shop unit.

“It will respect the neighbouring properties, existing amenities and overall character of its surrounding.

“The development maximises the site’s potential while having no material effect on its neighbours.”

Mr Ram says the owner of the plot will be looking to begin the work, which he estimates will last about 12 months, immediately after he is given the green light.

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