A historic former pub has been saved from demolition - but will still be converted into flats.

Developers had hoped to knock down the 19th century Old Alma in Chilham, near Canterbury, and build the new homes in its place.

But after ditching their original plans in the face of a public backlash, they have now been given the go-ahead to transform the building into flats.

Two more apartments will also be constructed on the site, with outbuildings making way.

The former pub, which stands facing the A28 and is driven past by thousands each day, was built in the mid-1800s.

It was turned into a B&B 25 years ago but business is now said to have dried up.

Owner Anthony McNamara, who took over the reins of the site in 2019, devised plans to flatten the Victorian inn and replace it with eight flats.

Proposals were submitted to Ashford Borough Council but withdrawn following objections from villagers wanting to protect the premises.

A revised scheme was then put forward at the end of last year after developers conceded they could not demolish the pub - which was originally built by the London, Chatham and Dover Railway company.

In submitting the second bid, planners said: "The existing Old Alma building has no architectural merit but, during the consultation period of the previous submission, it became apparent residents felt it had significant historical interest and should be retained."

While the decision to ditch the demolition plans was welcomed by Chilham parish council and other residents, objections were lodged against the scheme for being "completely out of place in the area".

But the council's planning department has rubber-stamped the proposals.

They said: "The Alma is not a listed building but is of historic interest in so far as its function on a historic routeway.

"The scheme would result in the demolition of some outbuildings and development within an area of archaeological interest. "Subject to conditions however, it is considered this would be acceptable and this view is in line with that of Kent County Council Heritage."

The nearby A28 and A252 junction is an accident blackspot, yet in making its decision on the project, the borough council said it will "not result in a significant impact on the local highway network".

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