Managers planning to convert a disused bank building into a thriving pub hope to have the project up and running before Christmas.

Organisers hope to turn the former Kentish Bank, which became NatWest, in Jubilee Square in the centre of Maidstone, into a traditional pub with food, opening from 10am to 11pm.

They hope to restore the building, which has solid oak columns and panelling and a huge dome as a centrepiece, sympathetically, and have submitted an application to Maidstone council.

The Wilson family, leading the proposal, also run Strawberry Moons in Gabriels Hill.
Maidstone town centre manager Bill Moss said he understood that, subject to planning permission, it was scheduled to open in November.

He said: “I am sure that it will turn into a great success. It is a lovely building.”