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Angry residents fear plans to demolish a derelict former seaside nursing home could see their road dominated by an unsightly block of flats.
Developer Perry Kang wants to flatten St Benedict’s residential home in St George’s Terrace, Herne Bay, after three times failing to sell it at auction.
He had been given the green light to convert the building into 10 flats three years ago, but now claims the scheme is “economically unviable”.
But neighbours have criticised the latest set of proposals, which are for 12 homes, arguing that the building should be saved.
Frank Gormley, 73, said: “It could easily be repaired. It’ll be a loss of the character of Herne Bay.
“The planned facade is modern, yet its front was really lovely. Three storeys is far too high – it should be two.
“It would make this part of the street ugly; it just wouldn’t sit right and be in-keeping.
“To a man and woman, our neighbours and people in Oxenden Street and Avenue Road share these views. It’s got widespread opposition.”
The building has not been used since 2014 and is now known for attracting squatters and anti-social behaviour.
Residents told the KentOnline last year that they were being “terrorised” by gangs of youths repeatedly breaking in and vandalising the property.
Drawings show that Mr Kang is planning to equip the block of flats with 10 parking spaces – but neighbours believe there should be more.
St George’s Terrace resident Hubert Whyte says the scheme will create congestion.
“Parking is a big issue, particularly in the summer as people like to park here because they have to pay on the front,” said the 68-year-old.
“It’s going to be gridlocked.
“My fear is there will be another four years of this nightmare ahead of us.”
Documents show Mr Kang is expecting to turn a profit of about £205,000, after paying about £2.7m to purchase the land and develop the site.
But his earnings will be squeezed to about £19,000 should “a number of the apartments be... [sold] to the affordable market”.
Mr Kang was unavailable for comment.
