The long-awaited demolition of a derelict pub to make way for a new apartment block is set to begin soon.

Contractors have moved in at the former Prince Albert in New Street, which has sat abandoned since closing in 2008.

Scaffolding has been erected around the front of the site after councillors gave permission for it to be flattened in November last year.

Developers are to build a block of 14 two-bedroom flats over a mixed four and five-storey building on the site, which will also include a ground floor retail space.

Campaigners raised concerns about the scale of the design which was likened to an uninspiring multi-storey car park by Cllr Bernard Heyes.

He told the planning committee meeting last November: "This is nothing more than a hideous monstrosity that is totally unsympathetic to the historic Barrow Hill area.

"The dark and gloomy cladding makes the building look ominous and unattractive.

"The developer says the design is robust - I think a more appropriate adjective is ‘ugly’.”

Council leader Gerry Clarkson said last year that it had been a “derelict scar” in Ashford for too long, adding the building was de-listed because it has little merit left as a historic site as many features have been lost or damaged.

But angry nearby resident Joanna Perkin said: "Parking will remain an issue, as will the safety on this busy roundabout. I am also concerned about access to Barrow Hill while the demolition and building works are carried out.”

The plans for the apartment block - which were put forward by applicant Whitehaven Estates - were approved by 12 votes to two, with Cllr Heyes and Cllr Chris Waters voting against.

The pub was gutted by fire in 2014.

Will you be pleased or disappointed to see the Prince Albert knocked down? Comment below or email kentishexpress@thekmgroup.co.uk