Proposals to convert a once-popular Chinese eatery, which was repossessed two years ago, into flats have been given the go-ahead.

It is the third planning application to have been submitted to Gravesham council to change The Peking Chinese Restaurant, in Gravesend town centre.

Originally the applicant, Mr Singh, wanted to convert the premises into six, one-bedroom flats which would each include a bedroom, bathroom, kitchen, and living area.

However, this scheme was rejected by council officers in June last year as it would impact the architectural and historic interest of the building and provide “extremely poor living conditions for future occupiers”.

Two of the proposed flats were considered to be undersized and some rooms in three of the apartments would have received little sunlight.

Mr Singh then asked for permission to convert the vacant restaurant into three, one-bedroom and three studio units.

This was again refused in December for similar reasons.

In February, the applicant sought approval another time to create one, one-bedroom and three, two-bedroom flats each with a living and dining area, kitchen and bathroom.

The submitted heritage statement said: “The proposed use of the building as dwellings is considered to be a creative, adaptive, and sustainable reuse of the building.

“This is deemed to have a positive impact and will provide public benefit through the provision of four new dwellings.”

The latest application for four instead of six apartments has since been approved this month after planning officers’ previous concerns were addressed.

In their report, it stated the scheme would offer a “modest contribution” to the borough’s housing need.

It added: “The proposal remains acceptable as before in respect of neighbouring amenities, parking and highway safety.”

The flats will be separated between the two upper floors but the ground floor, which homes hair salon Kimoy’s Cuts and bakery Cake Box, will not be affected.

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In August 2022, two notices were posted on the door of the Chinese restaurant, in Milton Road, by Mid Kent Bailiff Services.

It read: “We have this day repossessed these premises on behalf of the landlords/managing agents W.J. Holland & Sons in forfeiture under the terms of the current lease.

“Should any person attempt entry without the express permission of the said landlord and/or their agents then any such action will be deemed a criminal act and all necessary steps will be taken to prosecute offenders.”

The Grade II listed building, which had been used as a Chinese restaurant since 1972, has been vacant since.