Plans to transform a Grade II-listed derelict former care home into flats have been given the green light.

Elliott House in Reculver Road, Herne Bay, was shut down in 2021, after the Care Quality Commission (CQC) found a catalogue of failures.

It has sat empty since, but will now be turned into 27 flats and duplexes, with three new bungalows built in its two-acre grounds.

The plans include formal gardens, parking with EV charging stations, a mind and body studio, and a residents’ BBQ area.

Grifo Developments, which is undertaking the project, said: “The development will be carried out in accordance with the highest standards of sustainability and energy efficiency, ensuring that the homes are both environmentally friendly and economical to run.

“The restoration project will be carried out with the utmost care and attention to detail, ensuring that the building’s historic fabric is preserved and enhanced for future generations.”

Elliott House dates back to 1899 and was originally a convalescent home for railway workers.

It was designed by architect Saxon Snell and funded by philanthropist Passmore Edwards.

A planning officer at Canterbury City Council approved the bid last week.

In a report, they stated: “The conversion of Elliott House to residential units has limited exterior alteration, and the principal elevation remains unchanged.

“The proposal includes new doors and windows, but the alterations are confined to the side and rear elevations and, as such, are considered to be sympathetic to the listed building overall.

“The application site is located within the urban area of Herne Bay, and as such, the principle of converting the care home into residential development in this location is considered acceptable.”

The report points out that no affordable housing will be provided at the site, despite the district’s usual requirement being 30%.

However, it states: “An independent assessment shows that the site cannot provide any affordable units, as the costs arising from refurbishment of the listed building have resulted in the scheme being unviable.

“As a result, it is not possible to deliver affordable housing on the site or make contributions towards the delivery of affordable housing off-site.”

It is hoped the new homes will be completed by the end of 2026.

Matthew Bates, Grifo Developments managing director, added: “This planning approval marks an important milestone in both the history and the future preservation of Elliott House.

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“Everyone who visits the building is captivated by its charm, and our team are excited to once again make Elliott House a beautiful place to call home.

“I’d like to pay tribute to the local community who have supported our plans, with particular thanks to The Seaside Museum in Herne Bay, who helped us understand the full history.

“Staying true to our word, we will now explore whether there is a possibility of renaming the building to something more deserving of its origins and locality”.

Elliott House care home shut down just four days after a CQC visit.

The shock decision left almost 50 elderly residents with as little as 24 hours to find somewhere else to live.

Inspectors ruled the home was dirty, did not have enough competent staff and took on new employees without checking their Covid vaccine status, putting residents at risk.