A grieving dad is transforming a prime town centre building into 27 apartments and renaming it in memory of his son.

Queens House, above the Bonmarché clothing store and neighbouring shops in Folkestone, has been boarded up for the past year.

Now new owner William Brown says it is time to regenerate the eyesore former office block, which he purchased last month.

Plans have previously been approved to convert the “underutilised and unloved” building into 27 high-quality flats, with some boasting sea views.

But last year work stopped on the site, which has garish pink weather-resistant boarding in the windows, leaving many residents worried about its future.

However, scaffolding has now gone up around the building as renovations begin.

Mr Brown has applied to name the new flats ‘Master William’s Place’ in memory of his seven-year-old son William Brown Jr, who died after being hit by a car in December.

The 35-year-old, who owns a construction company, believes it will be a “fitting tribute”.

“It's something I’m very passionate about,” Mr Brown said.

“The eyesore also isn't helpful for the shops nearby.

“With Wilko and the job centre being empty we don't need another empty unit on our high street.

“The area is becoming deserted.

“As part of a purchase agreement I have agreed that the front facade and all the scaffolding will be down in seven months, meaning all the purple bits will be gone.

“It will look really modern and lovely.”

Mr Brown, who opened a dessert parlour called Will Brown Jr’s in Sandgate Road in April, believes the redevelopment of Queens House is “essential” for the high street.

“I’ve got my shop next door which is in memory of my son and he is buried at The Church of St Mary and St Eanswythe,” he said.

“From the top floor of the building, you can see the church where William is.”

Mr Brown says he has planning permission for the project, which is set to take 18 months to complete.

The 27 apartments will comprise one- and two-bedroom properties and will be available to rent.

Mr Brown has also submitted a planning application to add an extra storey to the building.

He wants the new homes to be for “local people” and says they will be affordable due to their size and location.

He says the support from the community has been “incredible” and hopes the new development will “enhance the town centre”.

William was laid to rest on January 13 at The Church of St Mary and St Eanswythe, a place he would often go to play with his friends.

King Charles granted special permission for William to be buried at the historic graveyard which had been shut for burials since 1855.

Hundreds of mourners attended, with many lining the streets for the funeral procession through Folkestone, while 10,000 people tuned in to a live stream shared on KentOnline.

Stewart Powell was arrested in Dymchurch 24 hours after the tragedy on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving, causing death by careless driving, failing to stop at the scene of a collision and perverting the course of justice.

In July, he was spared jail when he appeared at Folkestone Magistrates Court.