Dozens of complaints have been made against plans to build a storage yard in a beauty spot.

Almost 70 people have objected to the plans for the former car park of the now-demolished Upper Bell pub in Blue Bell Hill.

The plot, off Common Road, has been unused since 2004 but under a new proposal it would be home to a business open 24 hours a day.

Resident Jackie Crittenden said: “We moved to this area for what it is – a quiet village with beautiful views of the Downs. It should not become an industrial estate.”

Susan Jones added: “The roads are not suitable for large vehicles and an increase in traffic. This is an area of outstanding natural beauty and this would be an eyesore.”

Retrospective planning permission is sought for a two metre high chainlink fence around the boundary, with close to half a metre of razor wire above.

Aylesford Parish Council is opposed to the application and argue it is not in keeping with the local area.

Council officers have recommended the proposal for refusal.

It is due to be discussed by Tonbridge and Malling Council’s planning committee tonight (Thursday).

The council also claims the landowner has already completed unauthorised engineering works on the site because deposited soil and rubble has raised the level of land.