Three years is how long it will take a council to cover the costs of new railings which are aimed at shutting out late night revellers.

After years of debate and planning, heritage style gates and railings costing just over £16,000 have been installed around the Undercroft at Deal Town Hall.

But after regularly spending out on cleaning costs when people use the market space as a toilet, the council claims it will not take long to cover the cost.

Mayor, Cllr David Cronk said: "The gates will have paid for themselves in three years due to savings made on specialist cleaning costs.

"We ensured that major savings were achieved in the purchase of the gates and funds have already been allocated for this so there will be no rise in the precept.

"Now, we are keen to add new planters, displays and possibly additional seating in the Undercroft and the gates will allow us to do this.

“This will also create a new attractive space suitable for special events and activities.”

Provider, Clima Gate Railings & Fencing Ltd in Ramsgate Road, Sandwich, have already installed the new features - which will only be closed at night.

Some consider the Grade II listed building has now been restored to its former glory with the new gates and railings replacing ones that were removed for salvage during the Second World War.

Others feel that it is taking shelter away from the vulnerable, particularly one homeless man who has frequented the space in recent months.

Cllr Cronk said: "The council has been working with Dover District Council - the local authority responsible for housing in this area - to assist anyone using the Undercroft as a shelter during the night as it is felt that the Undercroft is not a safe or suitable place for anyone to sleep in."

The decision to install gates was first discussed in 2015 when the Conservative group controlled the council. The decision was supported by the Labour group after it took control in 2016.