Another pub is set to be converted into flats.

Plans to turn former boozer the Darnley Arms, in Gravesend, into two, two-bedroom apartments have been given the green light by Gravesham council officers.

The public house, on the corner of Trafalgar Road and Clifton Grove, closed in 2021 as it was “no longer a financially viable business” due to “changing economic and social circumstances”, according to the planning statement submitted.

It has been vacant ever since and was bought by its new owners in December last year.

In June, applicant Mr Jagmohan Dobe of Aneesh Property Services applied to the council to convert the Victorian building into two flats on the ground and first floor.

“The development will have a positive effect on the character, economy and appearance of the surrounding area.”..

They will have two, double bedrooms, a lounge, dining and kitchen area, a bathroom, storage provided by wardrobes and a study in the bottom unit.

The planning statement states the external appearance of the building will “remain unchanged” although it will be redecorated with a new window and new door built in.

It concluded: “The development will have a positive effect on the character, economy and appearance of the surrounding area.”

During the consultation period, neighbours did raise their concerns over the lack of parking but the planning statement argued there is “ample on-street parking”.

This was disputed by residents who said the surrounding streets are already over-permitted and claimed it would cause more issues.

The council highways officer was consulted on the proposals and said the flats would “lead to less parking demand than the public house use” and did not object.

The plans were approved on July 31.

The Darnley Arms was built in 1851 and was a successful pub until 2020.