Plans have been drawn up to rebuild two houses which were gutted in a devastating blaze eight months ago.

The properties in Jubilee Crescent, Gravesend, were destroyed in the fire which was started accidentally by a discarded cigarette on June 26.

At its peak, nine fire engines, a height vehicle and the technical rescue team were involved in putting out the flames. Crews were there for around eight hours.

Three homes in a terrace were affected – two were damaged by flames and the other by water. All the houses were lived in, with some also home to pets and children.

As the fire took hold, black smoke could be seen from all over Gravesend and beyond.

Pictures and footage showed the fire tearing through the homes.

Kent Fire and Rescue said no injuries had been reported at the time.

Those who lived in the three homes were understood to be staying with family and friends.

Speaking at the time, residents described the moment the "frightening" fire broke out in the close.

Lisa Claydon said: "I looked out my window and saw flames so I ran outside. I just got all the kids out of the next door and we all stayed in my house.

"We were all crying, everyone was already out. We had to watch it all. I am so glad it did not happen late at night – I do not know what would have happened.

"It is just horrible. You could hear all the kids crying and screaming. It was like watching a film and seeing your worst nightmare but it is reality. It was awful."

Now, planning permission is being sought by housing association Clarion Housing Group to rebuild the two properties in a "like for like" application.

It is looking to replace the dwellings with new homes which would meet the latest building standards and regulations.

The plans include building a two-and-a-half-storey three-bedroom house and a two-storey two-bedroom house – the same as what was there originally.

The only difference to the properties include slight adjustments and changes to wall thickness to ensure they meet latest building regulations.

A decision on the plans is expected by Gravesham council by Thursday, March 23.