It played a big part in the county’s history but now it could also have a role in its future too.

Wrens Cross, which is on the corner of Knightrider Street and Upper Stone Street in Maidstone, was the original headquarters of Kent County Constabulary, which was formed in 1857.

It has been boarded up and disused for years. The Constabulary moved out when the new Sutton Road headquarters came into use in 1940. It is mainly home to pigeons now and much of the roof is missing.

But a deal has now been struck to redevelop the listed building, with mixed use of fast food or a supermarket and housing.

Owners Kent County Council said: “We have agreed terms with the developer, subject to the necessary planning permissions being undertaken.”

It is not yet known when work is expected to start.