Kent County Cricket Club’s bid to revamp its stadium has been given the green light - despite fears the scheme will “obliterate” the site's history.

The Canterbury side unveiled its proposals to expand the Spitfire Ground's stands, redevelop its entrance and relocate its war memorial towards the end of last year.

Club bosses stressed their vision would "enhance" the arena - but residents raised concerns it would instead be "bland and characterless".

However, city council officials have this week approved the plans, as they argue the changes would be in keeping with the rest of the area.

"The proposal is considered to have sufficient regard for the character, setting and context of the application site and shall preserve the character and appearance of the conservation area," an officer said.

"Given its separation distance from the nearest residential properties, it is considered that it would not result in any unacceptable loss of light, privacy or have an overbearing impact for neighbours."

In use since 1847, the Old Dover Road venue has had many updates over the years - the most recent being the construction of a block of retirement flats on the edge of the site.

Documents lodged with the local authority by the club also say the project will create a better-looking pedestrian way in into the arena.

Despite this resident Peter Mickleburgh objected to the project, amid concerns it would encourage loitering and littering.

“The redevelopment area is directly accessible to anyone making an off-premises alcohol purchase from the Sainsbury's Local, situated at the ground," he reasoned.

“My genuine concern about these plans is that they incorporate several elements that will both further encourage loitering and drinking.

“Why else would you provide seating? At best, this will encourage the further generation of litter."

The Canterbury Heritage Design Forum also branded the scheme "bland and characterless", adding: "It would be good if the ground could attempt to work with the little heritage that it still has at the front, rather than further obliterate it."

KCCC also plans to extend its coaches' boxes and expand the Frank Woolley Stand’s viewing room.

These works will add three additional coaches' boxes, two officials' boxes and new bathroom facilities with showers.

Papers submitted to the local authority by the club say: "The development seeks to enhance the sense of arrival, presence and overall security of the site.

“The proposals focus on a reconfiguring of two spaces and are intended to provide safer access to pedestrians."