Developers hoping to build a block of apartments next to a train line in Faversham have failed to win the support of Network Rail - despite shrinking the size of the scheme.

The rail company originally lodged an objection against the Station Road project amid a host of concerns, including fears a train could crash into the homes.

Despite “vehemently disagreeing” with the claims, George Wilson Developments has decreased the number of proposed flats from 45 to 30.

It has also introduced 246 sq m of commercial space for businesses to set up shop at the old rail yard, located between Beaumont Terrace and Eurocenter Business Park.

However, the changes have done little to appease Network Rail. The government-owned firm still believes the scheme “presents a significant risk in its ability to deliver a safe operational railway”.

“While we welcome the fact that what was previously residential units has now been replaced with commercial space, the unit still lies in a direct line behind the buffers of a siding which keeps the risk of the buffers being breached in the case of an accident,” the objection states.

The company also reiterates that it will potentially fall foul of civil claims over noise complaints from disgruntled apartment residents when it has to carry out repair works overnight. It says its workers will be blocked from gaining 24/7 access to the tracks due to parked cars.

Josh Wilson, from George Wilson Developments, says Network Rail will still be able to gain access at any time of the day, and stresses the complex will “not cause any nuisance” to the firm.

“It’s frustrating as we think the development is entirely reasonable,” Mr Wilson said.

“We’re not trying to disrupt Network Rail.

“By reducing the apartments, the level of open space has increased and the biodiversity net gain for the site is now 18%, which is very significant for a brownfield site.”

In a letter responding to the rail firm, Mr Wilson says: “Although we vehemently disagree with this hypothetical assertion that a train could come off the rails and crash into the buildings on site, we listened to Network Rail and have now changed the use of these buildings to commercial rather than residential.

“Purchasers of the apartments will not only be physically aware they are buying an apartment next to a working railway line, but they will also be aware of the rights Network Rail has to access the point as it will come up in their legal searches.

“Indeed, part of the attractiveness of the site for residential use is its excellent sustainable location next to the railway station.”

Two semi-detached cottages are planned, while 30 apartments will be housed in one block.

The old yard earmarked for development is a long, thin stretch of redundant land located at the junction of the old Faversham Creek branch line.

A pedestrian access route linking Faversham Recreation Ground with the railway station would be formed to shorten walking times. rec with the railway station would be formed to shorten walking times.