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Fast food fans peckish for fried chicken are backing a bid for a new takeaway shop next to a village funeral parlour.
Some 72 people have submitted letters supporting an application to convert the former Kings Hair Stylists in Aylesham into a KFC-style joint.
Neighbouring businesses fearing a loss of trade - including a kebab takeaway and fish and chip bar - are among the objectors to the proposal.
Also opposed is Nick Davis, the director of Watson and Bell Funeral Services, which is next door to the currently empty shop.
He fears his custom and reputation could be damaged by association.
“We have families who come in who are grieving and need to feel comfortable,” he said.
“The last thing we want is the smell of fried chicken coming through the walls and people hanging around outside chucking chicken bones all over the place.
"The last thing we want is the smell of fried chicken coming through the walls and people hanging around outside chucking chicken bones all over the place" - Nick Davis
“We’re on a quiet corner of the parade, but that won’t last.
“I worry we’ll come in on a Monday morning to find discarded chicken boxes on our doorstep.
“Obviously there are people who would welcome a chicken shop and to see the building put back into use, but they need to consider the other businesses who will be affected.”
The man behind the bid, Balasubramaniam Pratheepan - who owns the Londis on the opposite side of the parade - says the facilities are needed.
His representative, Carl Stoker, of Stoker Architecture, said: “It won’t be a chain, it will be an independent shop.
“There might be some objections from other businesses, but at the end of the day, my client will be giving people jobs and helping boost the economy in Aylesham.
“The shop has been empty for quite some time and it’s a good thing if it’s brought back into use.”
Mr Stoker says if the change of use plan is approved by Dover District Council, the opening times will be in line with other takeaways along that stretch.
Residents have been commenting on the application, with many saying it will be a vast improvement on the current empty shopfront.
Thomas Johnstone said: “Aylesham is expanding enormously and will become a small town.
“It is imperative that businesses are encouraged to invest in our community.
“65 Cornwallis has been vacant for a considerable length of time and despite local businesses expressing an interest in taking over the premises there have been no concrete offers.
“The empty shop has become an eyesore.”
Louise Emery added: “It will be good for the village to have a variety of food on offer.
“Much better to have a shop occupied rather than empty.”
Aylesham Parish Council fears it will increase litter and create noise problems.
