The seafront is set to be blighted by the burnt-out shell of the Bun Penny for another summer because of council red tape.

Plans for new flats and a restaurant were unveiled in January by businessman Dean Tevfik and architects from Ian Barber and Associates.

Their plans would require the demolition of the wrecked pub, which was gutted by fire in September 2011 and has been derelict since.

Officers from Canterbury City Council set a determination date for Mr Tevfik’s plans for the end of March, but the decision has been delayed until June.

Campaigner Vince McMahan believes Canterbury City Council’s planning officers are being too cautious, and putting tourism at risk.

He said: “The developers have made arrangements for the demolition so that they have a blank canvas to work with.

“The old pub has to come down, and it’s better to come down now than at the height of the season.

“The delay in the determination could mean it is July or August before it can be demolished.

“It could result in great big lorries running the demolition materials along the seafront in the height of summer. You don’t get businessmen like Dean and Ernie Tevfik coming along every day who are prepared to put money into the town to redevelop an eyesore.

“The council shouldn’t be messing developers around.”

The derelict shell has prompted campaigns from local businesses calling on the council to take urgent action to bring in new investment.

Business guru Nigel Hancock previously launched a petition to address the problem, and Shad restaurant boss Raj Miah, whose restaurant is opposite, said it was the number one concern for the town.

Architect Ian Barber said the site would be part of the regeneration of the seafront.

City Council spokesman Robert Davies says demolition can only begin on the site if planning permission is granted, as it is a locally- listed building.

He added: “There has been a delay in determining the application due to changes at national government level regarding contributions from developers.

“As a result we have to review projects so that any money collected is targeted towards ensuring they comply with the new regulations.”