Plans to replace a burned-down clubhouse with a pub and 21 flats are set to be approved – more than two years since the site was gutted in an arson attack.

Aylesham Sports Club, between Canterbury and Dover, was demolished in April 2020 after a suspicious blaze broke out during the first national lockdown.

But on Thursday councillors are to vote on an application to build a three-storey apartment block and a small pub on the site.

Bosses at GBA Designs have provided details of a scheme to create 14 one-bedroom flats and seven two-bed properties.

A total of 27 residents consulted say they are against it - some fearing there would be an increase in traffic and more parking pressures in Burgess Road.

Objectors also say too many flats are planned and the scheme would be an over-development and overbearing.

Others fear there will be noise and disruption from the pub, with some saying they would accept the homes without the drinking establishment.

Aylesham Parish Council is also against the application, believing it would lead to more parking demand and be an over-development.

But Kent County Council highway officials have raised no objection, saying enough parking spaces are planned so they do not expect unacceptable increases in parking pressures.

Dover District Council planning officers have recommended approval of the scheme.

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

The applicants had in August 2018 been given planning permission by DDC to extend the existing building into 19 flats but the work was never carried out before the fire.

The blaze broke out in the early hours of April 13, 2020 with police suspecting arson.

The original building was so badly damaged it had to be demolished so this new scheme would be a development from scratch.

The application will be discussed by the planning committee at the Dover District Council chamber at the White Cliffs Business Park, Whitfield, from 6pm on Thursday.