Plans to replace a clubhouse destroyed by fire with a pub and flats have been given the green light.

Planning committee councillors approved the scheme at their latest meeting, paving the way for the new boozer and 21 flats over three storeys at Burgess Road in Aylesham, near Canterbury and Dover.

They will replace the former Aylesham Sports Club, which was destroyed in a suspected arson attack in 2020.

The plans were voted through despite there being 27 public comments opposing the development, and only three in support.

Those against said it would increase traffic parking pressures in the area and raised concerns about noise and disruption from the pub.

Neighbour Pamela Barrow wrote: “I object to the size of this building with too many flats/people. Noise would increase in this residential area.

“I object also to the proposed bar as people congregating from both the village and nearby areas would make the safety of property and cars vulnerable to damage by drink affected.”

Another neighbour, Jennifer Evans, added: “The building of three storeys is not in keeping with the existing low level houses.

“The increase in traffic and associated pollution with impact greatly on an already congested area.

“The bar area will also impact on traffic and parking is already a problem on this road.”

Kent County Council said enough parking spaces were planned so they did not expect unacceptable increases in parking pressures.

District planning officers had recommended approval of the scheme, to create 14 one-bedroom flats and seven two-bedroom flats.

They say the project will contribute towards the authority’s five-year housing target and that the design is in keeping with the area.

Planning permission had been given for 19 flats in August 2018 but work was never carried out before fire struck the original building two years ago.

Police suspected arson and the building had to be demolished.