Planners are being asked to give the go-ahead for the redevelopment of the St James’ area of Dover.

The scheme would involve the demolition of buildings including the Burlington House office block.

It would provide more than 10,000 square metres of new shops in three main blocks, plus other business and residential development.

The site is between Townwall Street, Woolcomber Street, Castle Street, King Street and Russell Street and includes land at Flying Horse Lane.

Councillors, who will consider the latest plan on Thursday, August 8, are being told that the difference between this application and the last one is an increase of 68 square metres in the floor space of one of the main shopping units and five fewer car parking spaces.

“While the changes are modest, they are nevertheless material and require re-advertising and re-appraisal,” said the council’s case worker Peter Wallace.

There will be a “pocket park” on the corner of King Street and Flying Horse Lane, the character of Flying Horse Lane will be enhanced by a single-storey, timber, painted kiosk on the north side, the riverside walk will be improved and a new pedestrian route will be created to the A20.

“The application seeks to transform the commercial offer in Dover,” said Mr Wallace.

Describing the condition of the site, Mr Wallace said it had a run-down appearance.

He said: “This negative impact is accentuated by the architectural form of the remaining buildings and in particular Burlington House which is now widely recognised as an eyesore.”

Full story and public comments in the Dover Mercury, August 1.