Construction of a multi-million pound project expected to completely change Herne Bay’s seafront is expected to begin next summer.

Canterbury City Council revealed its plans last November to convert the former Tivoli arcade in Central Parade into a shop, studios and 33 homes, of which 10 will be social housing.

At the time, it was hoped the authority would begin work on the site - bought for £1.1m - in June this year.

But now, with building delayed a year, the council concedes its original expectations were overly hopeful.

Spokesman Rob Davies said: “With the benefit of hindsight, this was very optimistic.

“The delay has not been caused by anything out of the ordinary, just the kind of issues that most developments face.

“It is a challenging scheme on a prime site requiring careful management.

“We must ensure we take the time we need to get it right and provide something of high quality for the town, with the minimum amount of disruption to neighbouring properties.”

The city council bought the eyesore last year for £1.1m with a view to developing it and the car parks to the rear in Beach Street.

Its plans for the site were given the green light by the planning committee in May - despite objections being raised concerning the loss of spaces.

In a letter sent to the council, resident Peter Wevill branded the plans “insane”, stating that it could deter people from visiting the town.

The scheme is for 27 flats, as well as artists’ studio spaces and six town houses, with 25 parking spaces.

The work also includes the demolition and replacement of the eyesore Tivoli site fronting onto Central Parade while the neighbouring property at number 74 will be rebuilt with a new shop front.

Mr Davies added: “Work on our plans for Beach Street is continuing behind the scenes with the full technical design due for completion before Christmas.

“We will then secure a main contractor in the new year, with work expected to start on site next summer.

“We can happily reassure people that good progress is being made.”

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