One of Kent's oldest pubs has been demolished, despite fierce opposition to building flats on the site.

The Orb in Ramsgate Road, Margate, is believed to have been the town's most ancient inn.

It was built in 1498 and began selling ale from 1502, during the reign of Henry VII.

But the pub, which closed in 2017, has now been flattened to make way for 12 flats and two maisonettes.

When the plans were revealed, Margate Civic Society condemned the move as an act of "wanton destruction".

In an objection lodged to Thanet District Council this summer, the group's honorary secretary Geoff Orton said: “The existing structure has graced the site for almost 200 years and deserves better than this.

“We are utterly opposed to the obliteration from the landscape of this iconic and much loved local historic landmark.

“The only motive that supports the proposal derives from maximising profit from the site at the expense of local history and this must be rejected at all costs.

“We only get one opportunity to preserve history and a rejection of this proposal would reflect the esteem in which we hold this building.”

But a Thanet council conservation officer said although the inn is of some local significance and developmental history, there is “reduced intrinsic heritage value that remains within the property”.

DHA Planning, writing on behalf of developers Grifo Development Ltd, said the building is of limited local heritage significance, which is outweighed by the benefits.

Goody Demolition is currently on the site completing the demolition of the pub, which was called the Crown and Sceptre until 1962.

The hoardings say the building will be replaced with modern apartments available for rent.

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