Plans are afoot for a new care home next to Darent Valley.

It is hoped the 90-bed facility will help relieve pressure on the Dartford hospital by providing extra care for the elderly.

Proposals for the site along Watling Street have been revised following public consultation in July 2018.

The updated plans will see a decked car park added to the scheme in place of a hotel, increasing parking provision to 389 spaces.

Developers at real estate company Bostall Group hope this will free up room in Darent Valley's busy car park and address issues with on-street parking in surrounding areas, such as the Fleet Estate.

The organisation, based in Bexley, also plans to build a coffee shop with drive-thru facility which can be used by the local community and hospital visitors.

The proposals benefit from direct access to public transport, charging bays for electric vehicles, links to pedestrian and cycle routes and improved landscaping to enhance the look and feel of the area.

Changes to the project have arisen through feedback from nearby residents, councillors and stakeholders.

It is set to create up to 150 new full-time and part-time employment opportunities.

Bostall Group spokesman, Richard Harris, commented: "Within Kent, and the Dartford area specifically, there is a clear issue with demand for hospital beds.

"Our plans will address at least part of the issue through the provision of a new 90-bed care home, further complemented by a coffee shop and more parking for all users.

"I would like to thank local people for their responses during consultation, which have led to us improving the plans and increasing parking provision."