The decrepit remains of an arcade are set to be scrubbed from the landscape, as a bid to flatten the eyesore has been green-lit.

Developers want to tear down the old Neptune’s Amusements site in Central Parade, Herne Bay, before the start of June to ensure tourists do not lay eyes on the derelict building.

The site has sat empty for years, becoming a target for fly-tippers and louts who have broken into the property and even started fires inside.

The owner of the site, Mile Property Group, believes flattening the unsightly structure will “make it safe” and put an end to the crime it has attracted.

Company director Michael Keckes explained: “We’ve had anti-social behaviour and bits of the roof falling off, which was posing a bit of a risk to the public.

“With the building gone, this won’t be the case any more.

“We want to demolish it as soon as possible. I’m hoping it’ll be down by June 1.”

Mr Keckes previously revealed he is considering making the plot ready for an outdoor food vendor to move onto once the building has been removed.

He will confirm whether these plans will go ahead “within the next few weeks”, having already spoken to one business owner interested in running an outlet at the site.

As they waved through the plans to demolish the amusements this week, Canterbury City Council officers said the project was acceptable in part due to “the condition of the site”.

“While there would be some temporary noise and disturbance during the demolition process, this is not a reason to refuse the application,” they added.

A scheme to flatten the arcade and replace it with high-end flats and ground-floor shops had been unveiled by Mr Keckes two years ago.

However, it has suffered long hold-ups following the discovery of high levels of nitrogen and phosphorous at the Stodmarsh nature reserve near Canterbury.

The developer hoped the addition of a sewage treatment facility beneath the new block would help him overcome the issue, which has halted major projects across the district.

He remains uncertain when he will be allowed to begin the multi-million-pound venture, despite council officers admitting this week it is “likely to be approved”.

“We’re not really moving along with the building project, are we? We’re just clearing the site,” he continued.

“The demolition is more of a necessity to make the site safe really.

“I’ve been in contact with a planning officer, who’s been very helpful, but as far as I know there isn’t a solution to the Stodmarsh issue yet.

“I hope it will be soon, but we don’t know.”