Plans to build four holiday lets on the site of a demolished community hall have been scrapped in favour of permanent homes.

The derelict Bowery Hall in Dymchurch – long described by residents as an "eyesore" – was knocked down after plans were approved by Folkestone and Hythe District Council (FHDC) last March.

But instead of holiday accommodation, applicant Mark Lilly, who owns the neighbouring Ship Inn pub, now intends to build four “modest” houses on the site.

He purchased the hall in 2022 and was originally granted permission to build four self-contained Airbnb-style units.

But a new application submitted to FHDC now seeks to amend the approved scheme to deliver permanent housing instead.

The decision, Mr Lilly says, follows advice from estate agents and discussions with Dymchurch Parish Council.

“Property agents have reported a strong demand for homes of this size in the village,” he states in the application.

“There has also been a noticeable decline in the holiday rental market since Covid.

“The parish council confirmed a greater need locally for two-bedroom dwellings rather than more holiday lets.”

The revised plan proposes a row of four terraced cottages, each featuring two bedrooms.

At one-and-a-half storeys high, Mr Lilly says the homes are only slightly larger than the previously approved holiday units, with a 275mm increase in width per property.

While the homes are not aimed at families, they are expected to appeal to young couples or retired people looking to downsize and stay close to local amenities and the seaside.

Nearby resident, Wayne Hick, told KentOnline this week that he welcomes the changes to the proposal.

“We have people in Airbnbs on the other side of our property, and they do make quite a lot of noise,” he said.

“I think it’s a better idea to have them as permanent homes. I’m excited to see what they look like once it’s all complete.”

The original proposals sparked controversy when first submitted, despite widespread support from neighbours for the demolition of the run-down hall.

Many residents described the building as dangerous and unsightly, with asbestos reportedly visible and pieces of the structure falling off.

The initial holiday let plan drew objections from Dymchurch Parish Council, which raised concerns over increased traffic and parking pressure.

A previous application to replace the hall with five residential homes was rejected in 2019, but Mr Lilly says this latest scheme has been revised to reflect local housing needs.

Although demolition has been completed, no further construction has taken place.

FHDC is expected to make a decision on the revised plans by June 12.