A developer has launched a fresh bid to demolish a derelict former nursing home that has attracted vandalism and crime since it closed.

Plans to tear down St Benedict’s residential home in St George’s Terrace, Herne Bay, and replace it with a block of flats have stalled since proposals were submitted to Canterbury City Council 12 months ago.

Perry Kang, who owns the site, attributes the delays to water-quality issues in Stodmarsh, outside Canterbury.

The developer is now proposing to flatten the structure, which is scarred by smashed and boarded-up windows, while he awaits permission for the 12-home scheme.

Papers submitted to the local authority on his behalf say: “This pending application has unfortunately been delayed by the Natural England issues with Stodmarsh.

“A pragmatic solution appears to be that works are undertaken now to commence a careful demolition leaving the site in a tidy state awaiting planning permission for future redevelopment.”

Natural England says the wetlands at Stodmarsh are suffering from high levels of nitrate and phosphate, caused by waste discharges from existing housing developments into the village's lakes and the River Stour's catchment area.

Experts have compiled evidence that shows the nutrients are causing eutrophication - a process which causes pollution and promotes excessive algae growth.

It has forced councils across east Kent to put decisions on housing projects on hold, while the best course of action to tackle the reserve’s deteriorating water quality is decided upon.

Mr Kang also says the city council has been attempting to make him tidy up the site, which has fallen into disrepair since the property was vacated in 2014.

The documents add: “The local planning authority are also seeking to take enforcement action to tidy up the site despite the clear intention of the developer to develop the site.

“The applicant would like to work closely and proactively with the council throughout the process in order to provide any further information required.”

"We are now beginning to get terrorised by these kids. We feel vulnerable."

Residents are expected to object to Mr Kang's latest plans, after urging him last year not to knock the building down for fear of damaging the character of the area.

Over the seven years it has sat empty, the site has become known for attracting squatters and anti-social behaviour.

A neighbour told KentOnline in 2019: "Every couple of months someone is breaking in there.

"We are now beginning to get terrorised by these kids. We feel vulnerable."

The year before, four fire engines were sent to the building to tackle a blaze.

The city council has been approached for comment.

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