by Joe Walker

joewalker@thekmgroup.co.uk

Plans to install a full-size replica Tardis on Herne Bay seafront are a timeshift closer to reality after the idea was given a massive thumbs-up by town councillors.

The 8ft wooden booth – which will operate as a working police box – will be sited on the entrance to the pier.

Creator Jason Onion, from Beltinge, presented the idea at a meeting this week and won a round of applause from councillors and the public.

He said the £7,000 Tardis – which will take two months to build – will acknowledge the late Anthony Coburn, who lived in Herne Bay and wrote the first ever Doctor Who episode.

It will also have a 360 degree CCTV camera on top to deter would-be vandals.

Mr Onion, 35, said: “I have approached Maidstone Police for their inclusion on this and they are favourable.

“I wish to involve all emergency services, including St John’s and the coastguard, so the item functions as was intended while serving as a new landmark for the town.

“I can see only positives for this and know it will do good for Herne Bay.”

The time-travelling machine was well-received by those at the meeting, with many claiming it will give the seafront a boost.

Town centre councillor Andrew Cook said: “I think it’s a great idea and has certainly attracted a lot of attention.

“Everyone has an interest in it so I think we should take it a step further. “It could open up some very interesting doors for Herne Bay and be another thing for us to hang our hat on.”

Heron Ward sidekick Joe Howes added: “The idea’s great, but Andrew Coburn wasn’t just Dr Who.

"He wrote lots of other things, including Poldark, so it’s important we recognise that as well.”

West Bay’s Peter Lee said: “This seems like an excellent idea with benefits to the town.

“The Herne Bay Regeneration Group Working Party has been looking at the seafront for awhile now and at areas where things can be put and developed.

“I think the best way forward is to refer this to them so they can look for a permanent site as part of the work they’re doing.”

County councillor David Hirst added: “It seems great to me - I love it. There’s definitely a use for it.”

It’s thought the Tardis could be built from reclaimed wood from the soon-to-be demolished pier pavilion.

Councillors agreed for the idea to be considered by the regeneration working group.

Kent County Council has also confirmed it is considering putting a 1963 replica in the town’s library.