A wave of investment is set to transform a long-standing industrial estate after the opening of an Aldi store “raised the profile” of the area.

Plans have been submitted to redevelop part of Pennypot Industrial Estate in Hythe, with owners hoping to replace a dated building with three modern business units.

Applicant WBA Hythe Ltd is a family-run company that has owned the site off Dymchurch Road for many years.

The business says the arrival of Aldi, which opened next door in 2019, has created an opportunity for “considerable investment”.

It says the opening of the German discount giant has added footfall and “raised the profile” of the area.

Proposals lodged to Folkestone and Hythe District Council (FHDC) would see the partial demolition of a two-storey building which once housed a plumbing shop.

Planning documents describe the current property as an “unusable and dilapidated eyesore” with extensive asbestos sheeting.

If approved, the steel frame of the building will be retained and refurbished to create three high-quality commercial units.

Each of the new spaces would feature smart new frontages, upgraded utilities, secure yards and new parking, the applicants say.

Forty parking spaces are expected to be provided across the site, including disabled bays close to every entrance.

According to estate agents Smith Woolley, there is a strong demand for smaller industrial units in the area, with the expected rental value making the investment viable for the long term.

The building sits alongside David Ian Furniture Ltd, which currently occupies part of the site and will remain alongside the new additions.

Architect KE Architecture says the proposals will create a “clear and logical” layout with improved access for vehicles and pedestrians.

The units are being described as energy-efficient “cold shell” spaces to allow future tenants to fit them out as needed.

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A decision on the application will be made by planning officers at FHDC.