DERELICT buildings may be demolished to make way for a 72-bedroom hotel, restaurant and conference suite next to Manston airport.

Planning permission has been approved for the Manston Road site is occupied by two vacant properties, one a former house and another previously used as a car sales and repair garage.

The plot is one of the first to be tackled under Thanet Council's empty properties initiative.

Cllr Paul Rollins, cabinet member for regeneration, said: "The scheme aims to bring derelict sites like this one back into use and improve the overall appearance of the area. These proposals for a hotel, if implemented, will create new employment opportunities and will help the regeneration of Thanet."

Cllr Ken Gregory, cabinet member for planning, said: "I look forward to seeing detailed plans being brought forward and work starting on the site at the earliest opportunity."