A safari truck could be converted into a holiday let at a Kent animal park which welcomed more than 80,000 overnight guests last year.

Port Lympne Hotel and Reserve, near Hythe, is promising a “hybrid holiday experience” in plans submitted to Folkestone and Hythe District Council (FHDC).

Guests who book the ‘Explorer’ will be able to enjoy a private tour of the site’s safari experience before a driver attaches the lorry to a stationary trailer for the overnight stay.

The truck will feature a lounge area, with the trailer holding two bedrooms and a bathroom.

It is set to be housed on an existing storage area near Leopard Creek, a selection of cabins and wigwams, which were approved in 2018.

A cover letter submitted by planning agents Hobbs Parker states The Aspinall Foundation, the site’s owner, is keen to expand its accommodation offering after welcoming 82,000 overnight visitors last year.

It adds: “Port Lympne is a key tourist attraction within the district and is a major contributor to the local economy through a number of channels.

“The Explorer would add an additional unique experience to the reserve, being the only one in the UK.

“This would support the continued success of the business and its attractiveness in the market, as well as attracting more tourists to the reserve and the district as a whole.

“It is considered the proposal will provide a high-quality development that will encourage tourism and improve the diversity of the existing business while, at the same time, respecting the character of the countryside and the existing setting.”

Bosses say the proposed site will be secluded due to a large amount of planting around the perimeter.

An existing concrete patch is proposed to be extended by 14 sq m, with a grass-seated area and a barbeque added.

Planning documents add how the site offers a “unique opportunity to provide a hybrid holiday experience with guests getting a personal safari tour before hitching up to the trailer for a night stay within the estate”.

In recent years, Port Lympne has become a celebrity hotspot.

Former footballer Rio Ferdinand, actor Ashley Walters, and TV stars Alison Hammond and Kelly Brook all enjoyed stays at the site last year.

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Bosses say the overnight accommodation occupancy is at 81% and 96% during the high season.

No objections have been lodged on the council’s planning portal.

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