A building firm that was the main contractor for a multi-million pound regeneration project has gone bust.

Henry Construction was selected to build The Charter, a 242-home scheme in Gravesend.

The town centre development is a key part of Gravesham council's masterplan to breathe new life into the area.

But last week it was revealed Henry Construction had collapsed into administration – and building work had ceased.

A council spokesman said: "Work has temporarily paused on The Charter development of 242 apartments and a new multi-storey car park in Gravesend town centre.

"The council has been made aware that the contractor, Henry Construction Projects Ltd, has filed for administration."

Work on The Charter, which is divided between plots on the former Market Square and Horn Yard car parks, began in March 2021 after being granted planning permission in 2020.

The buildings were meant to be complete and ready for viewing by autumn this year.

People living in the area became aware of little happening on the site at the beginning of June.

The council spokesman, who could not say how long the project might be delayed, continued: "The council has been monitoring the situation at The Charter closely and is in regular dialogue with development partners Reef Group and Rosherville Limited (the council’s wholly owned company).

"Development partners Reef Group have been proactive in taking the necessary steps to secure the site.

"Development partners are working around the clock to mitigate the impact of this news."

A Rosherville spokesman added: “Rosherville’s development partner, Reef Group, is dealing with issues currently being experienced and all parties are working proactively to get works under way again as soon as possible.

"The exciting Charter development of 242 apartments and a new multi-storey car park is an incredibly important project for Rosherville Ltd, for Reef Group and for Gravesham as a borough and we remain committed to driving the project forward."