An ambitious plan to turn Herne Bay's King’s Hall into a casino has been unveiled by regeneration bosses.

Councillors are to discuss the proposal at a meeting tonight (Wednesday) as a way of generating income in the district.

They said the hall, on Beacon Hill, could be converted into a casino as part of a mixed-used redevelopment of the area.

The working group of councillors wrote in tonight's agenda: “Historically this has been investigated and, after a long process of engaging with the community, there was a rejection of the idea of a casino within the district – has public perception changed?

“The only town where support was apparent was Herne Bay.”

Herne Bay Town Partners chairman Gideon Scott welcomed the plans.

He said: “I know the King’s Hall is a much under-used facility, which is unfortunate because it is a valuable venue.

“I think the casino would boost the night-time economy – that’s the main point.

“People suggest that Herne Bay shuts at 5pm and there’s not a lot to do in the evening.

“We have health centres, a cinema and an arcade, but there could be other things to attract people to the town.”

Mr Scott, who has also been involved with plans to build a public square on Wimereux Gardens, said Herne Bay was on the up.

He added: “The whole thing about Herne Bay is we are trying to make it a destination town – not just a place for people to come to in an afternoon.

“People are talking about Herne Bay and have been for some years now. Margate and Ramsgate has a casino – why can’t Herne Bay have one?

“The King’s Hall is obviously the large gig venue in the town and there are a lot of concerts, but it’s generally an under-used facility.”