Bungling council officials unknowingly held onto a block of disused toilets for the last 12 years, after thinking the shut-down facilities had already been sold.

The revelation about the loos in Market Street, Herne Bay, was made during a meeting of Canterbury City Council's community committee.

Officials say the building will now be sold off, having remained on the authority's books by mistake since its closure in 2010.

Spokesman Rob Davies told KentOnline's sister publication, the Kentish Gazette: "A decision to close Market Street toilets was taken by the former executive in 2010 as a budget-saving measure, following public consultation.

"However, a genuine oversight at the time meant they did not go through the disposal process to be sold.

"We will now be progressing the disposal as a priority."

The blunder was only uncovered in recent months, as council officers carried out their latest review of loos across the district.

'It wouldn't be appropriate to discuss possible prices or uses at this stage as this could affect the final sum we receive.'

However, the authority is remaining tight-lipped about the price it is expecting the structure – which is located in a town centre car park – to fetch.

“A full appraisal of the site will be carried out in preparation for the sale," Mr Davies added.

“It wouldn't be appropriate to discuss possible prices or uses at this stage as this could affect the final sum we receive, but our aim is always to get the best value for the taxpayer.”