Developers are promising a jobs boost after they were given the go-ahead to transform a site ravaged by a 25-day fire.

The four-acre plot in the Westwood Industrial Estate off Nash Road, Margate, has stood empty since the suspected arson four years ago.

The massive blaze broke out inside an empty warehouse packed with waste - and saw hundreds of firefighters work around the clock to extinguish the flames.

Derelict remains of the building were not cleared for two years, but now it appears the site will finally be redeveloped after Thanet District Council gave plans to erect 59 commercial units the green light.

Papers lodged with the local authority by firm Nash Road Property Development say: "We are seeking to bring a well-located and derelict plot back into use.

"The scheme will deliver 59 flexible and modern units, of differing sizes, which will be appropriate for a variety of uses.

"It will generate much-needed new jobs in a range of employment types, as well as the relocation of existing firms within the district to enhanced premises.

"The project will also provide flexible units to target embryonic and start-up businesses."

The fire broke out on September 15, 2018, and could be seen from as far away as Sandwich.

The abandoned structure was packed with up to 6,000 bales of rubbish.

At its height, 80 firefighters were tackling the blaze in Continental Approach, as they worked to prevent the inferno from spreading to neighbouring buildings.

They were not stood down until October 10, 2018.

Shortly after the incident, three 12-year-olds and a girl aged 13, all from Margate, were arrested on suspicion of arson. However, they were later released without charge.

KentOnline later revealed the blaze left the fire service with a bill of more than £160,000 for extra costs. The site changed hands the following year.

"Before the fire, the plot had been vacant for a while, and had been subjected to fly-tipping which had also left a substantial amount of waste on-site," Nash Road Property Development adds.

"We, the new owners, have therefore undertaken an extensive programme of demolition and site clearance for redevelopment."

The firm says the project will "primarily support small businesses and start-ups".

It has earmarked the 6,500 m sq of floorspace to be used for offices, warehousing, industry and distribution purposes.

Drawings show the new development will be equipped with 124 parking bays.

"It will deliver much-needed employment accommodation, suitable for a range of different types of users," the company continues.

"It will bring this important part of the Westwood Industrial Estate back into use after years of lying derelict, with a scheme that will actively support start-up businesses in Thanet.

"The site is cleared for development, with the intention of an early commencement on-site once planning permission is granted."

Council officials received no objections to the proposals from locals.

Authority planners concluded the "living conditions of neighbours will be protected" by the scheme and that the design of the buildings is "appropriate".