A prominent Georgian building which has been derelict for 20 years has been brought back into use by Maidstone Borough Council.

The borough acquired Lenworth House on the corner of King Street and Wat Tyler Way in December 2017.

The building has now been transformed into 14 apartments, which are being let to private tenants through Sibley Pares.

The flats are a mix of one, two and three bedroom units, each fully fitted with kitchen appliances. Eight of them come with a parking space.

Already 13 of the units have been let.

It is the first development to be completed under the council's five-year Housing Development and Investment Plan.

Director of regeneration William Cornall said: “Lenworth House was a key priority for the council, as it signals a statement of intent in respect of continuing to grow its market rented portfolio within Maidstone Property Holdings, and create new sources of income to support core services.

“The regeneration of Lenworth House is not just about growing our housing stock, it’s about place-making and enhancing the town centre for the local community.”

Eight flats have been created within the existing building and a further six in a three-storey block added to the rear.

Prices range from £725 to £1,000 a month.

Two other housing projects are in the pipeline, the council is building 47 apartments on part of the Union Street car park and another 47 on Brunswick Street's car park. When completed they will include a mix of affordable, rented and private sale homes.