The architect behind a huge new student accommodation block has defended the designs amid claims the prominent building is a “monstrosity”.

Scores of critics have this week voiced their dismay upon seeing the finished five-storey structure called Currus Court, in Rhodaus Town, Canterbury, following two years of construction.

The “towering” building opposite the city wall, which stands on the site of the former St Mary Bredin School and Peugeot garage, was granted permission in 2020 via an appeal process.

The city council’s planning committee sided with campaigners in concluding the project would be “overbearing and oppressive”.

However, architect Guy Hollaway successfully overturned the authority’s refusal and gained the planning inspector’s go-ahead for the 146-bed block.

Work on the building, which is passed by thousands on the ring-road each day, is now almost complete and the removal of covers has unveiled the design.

Unimpressed residents took to the Canterbury Remembering It As It Was Facebook page to share their opinions on the development - labelling it “hideously ugly”, a “monstrosity” and a “carbuncle”.

Angela Griffiths wrote: “I really can not find the words.”

Meanwhile Jim Titheridge noted “the drawings looked hideous, and the actual buildings are even worse”.

But Mr Hollaway insists its form is “consistent” to the neighbouring Palamon Court, and will “stand the test of time by virtue of its quality of architecture”.

During the planning process, the Oaten Hill and South Canterbury Association (OHSCA) complained how the scheme would “desecrate” the site.

Now, three years down the line with the building structurally complete, OHSCA member David Kemsley remains frustrated.

He said: “I was horrified by the height of the neighbouring Palamon Court building, and now there is another just as high. It’s equally jarring.

“To have them towering over the city wall and the Dane John Gardens is dreadful.

“It’s extremely disappointing the historic St Mary Bredin school was demolished and replaced by this.”

The bulldozing of the old school - which had stood for 160 years - was previously branded a “shameful piece of civic vandalism” by the city council’s former planning department boss Mansell Jagger.

The Victorian site is, however, no more - and architect Guy Hollaway believes its replacement “will embed itself into the fabric of Canterbury”.

“Currus Court is the final phase of Rhodaus Town, which completes the much-needed purpose-built student accommodation for the city of Canterbury,” he said.

“It is consistent in its form to its neighbour Palamon Court and its facade has been designed to the highest quality using predominantly stone and zinc cladding.

"Its architecture contrasts the horizontal emphasis of Palamon Court with vertical gables and stone surrounds, emulating architectural details that can be found in the historic context of Canterbury.

“We believe this building will embed itself into the fabric of Canterbury and stand the test of time by virtue of its quality of architecture.”

While it has come in for criticism, there are others who are not opposed to the student block’s design.

Commenting on Facebook, Beverley Paton said: “I personally find this new building far more attractive and architecturally interesting than the old schoolhouse/car dealership which was most certainly not in-keeping with the historic Canterbury architecture.”

Meanwhile, architecture lecturer and Canterbury Society member Keith Bothwell told KentOnline: “I wouldn’t say it’s one of the best buildings I’ve seen in the city - but I don’t share the same opinions as those who are vehemently against it.

“I think the colours are sympathetic to the city wall and the scale of the building is good.

“It fits at that location next to the ring-road.

“I do, however, question the need for a new building geared solely towards student accommodation.

“We don’t know what the student climate will be like in future - you could be left with lots of students flats which are difficult to convert to housing.”

“It seems mad to build new accommodation which is restricted for just student-use.”