A derelict warehouse can be converted into flats, a government inspector has ruled.

Despite officer Rob Bailey recommending it be approved, Swale council’s planning committee turned down the proposal.

The plan, which concerns the former kitchen showroom at 2-4 William Street, Sittingbourne, came before members on May 9 last year.

The application on behalf of Brian Wisbey, of Harrow Court, Stockbury, was to transform the two-storey building into homes for three families.

Work had already started to revamp the property, which was also once home to a weight-lifting club and a health studio, with a view to creating five upstairs bedrooms and a reception room or bedroom on the ground floor.

Ward members said they were keen for the site to be redeveloped, but spoke against this proposal.

Concerns raised about the fact the proposal was for multiple occupancy; possible over-
intensification; the interests of existing residents; and parking and amenity issues.

Cllr Roger Truelove (Lab) moved a motion for refusal on the grounds that the proposal was over-intensive and harmful to existing residents’ amenity.

This was seconded by Cllr Ghlin Whelan (Lab). On being put to the vote, the motion was agreed.

Unhappy with the decision, Mr Wisbey lodged an appeal with the planning inspectorate, which found in his favour.

The report said: “The proposal would not be over-intensive use of the property, and would not give rise to unacceptable noise and disturbance to occupiers of nearby residential properties.”