PLANS to create a visitor centre at the home of one of England's most popular writers is proving to be the subject of a cliffhanger.

Plans to demolish Gads Hill School at Higham, near Rochester, to erect a new junior and secondary school were submitted to Gravesham council in March last year.

Also within the application was the idea to convert the listed manor house, formerly Charles Dickens' home, into a visitor centre on the lower ground and ground floor, with four self-contained one-bedroom flats on first and second floors.

The proposal has now been sent off to the Government Office for the South East who may transfer the case to a public enquiry or hand responsibility back to Gravesham council to decide.

Residents' concerns

The plans were discussed at a recent GBC regulatory board meeting during which Cllr Pat Oakeshott spoke on behalf of Higham Parish Council following concerns from nearby residents in Providence Cottages, Crutches Lane.

Cllr Oakeshott said: "It's my duty to protect the residents of Higham. It's purely about defending the cottages."

It is thought the proposed changes could cause loss of light to these cottages. The flats, proposed to be used for teaching staff, have also caused debate.

Cllr Oakeshott added: "The flats are a contentious issue, inviting visitors to see Charles Dickens' house and shutting off two floors by way of four flats - it's ridiculous."

Head teacher of Gads Hill, David Craggs, suggested the financial viability of the visitors centre could be guaranteed by providing it with income by the letting of the upper floors.