A councillor has described Herne Bay as “diabolical”, calling for a greater mix of shops.

Cllr Ron Flaherty, the only Liberal Democrat representing in the town, says there are too many charity shops and cafes.

His comments came at a heated Herne Bay Area Member Panel meeting on Tuesday at the Salvation Army Hall.

Yet other councillors defended the town, calling on people to “stop knocking Herne Bay”.

Cllr Flaherty said: “The mix of businesses in Herne Bay is diabolical.

“We are stuck with charity shops and tea rooms. We have not got the mix right.

“People describe Herne Bay as the charity shop capital of the county.

“We can’t wave a magic wand. We are not getting it right. It is not exciting.”

Leaping to the town’s defence, Cllr Jennie Edwards said: “Herne Bay is not as diabolical as you make out.

“It has lots of lovely shops like local butchers, vintage shops and beautiful local cafes.

“There is so much more going on for us and I love popping up into town.

“There is a real community spirit which you don’t get in Canterbury or Whitstable.

“I think you are being very mean on the town.”

Cllr Peter Vickery-Jones added: “Diabolical? Come on, let’s stop knocking Herne Bay.

“Diabolical? Come on, let’s stop knocking Herne Bay..." - Cllr Peter Vickery-Jones

“Margate is a bit like Herne Bay in that it has so much potential but people keep knocking it.”

The meeting also saw proposals for a Diamond Jubilee Coastal Park from Hampton to Reculver recommended to the council executive.

Members also awarded money from the panel’s opportunities fund, with £3,000 going to the Duchamp Festival organisers and £2,000 going towards Herne and Broomfield parish council’s plans to build 62 allotments.

There were also discussions on how to avoid the same problems which blighted last year’s Christmas lights in the town.

More in this week’s Herne Bay Gazette.