Maidstone could soon boast the county's first five-star spa hotel.

Owner of Week Street bar Mu Mu, Ciaran O’Quigley, has submitted plans for the £5.7 million development which would transform the town centre.

It would turn two historic buildings and an area of unused land into a 36-room boutique hotel, with bar, restaurant and spa.

The businessman has submitted plans for the development, which would be called Hotel Mu Mu, to Maidstone council.

It would be built behind the existing Mu Mu bar off Week Street, to allow easy access to Maidstone East railway station and the town centre.

Mr O'Quigley, who has run the upmarket bar for 24 years, hopes the project will drive the regeneration of the County Town. He said: "The brief is Claridge's meets Willy Wonka.

"I want to create a luxurious hotel for the town that will challenge some of the world’s best, but will also put Maidstone back on the map.

"We want to be able to offer something a little bit different and add a bit more excitement to the town. It will be five-star luxury at three-star prices.

"We’re using dilapidated buildings, that at the moment are a complete eyesore and embarrassment, and turning them into something wonderful."

The 48-year-old, who lives in Barming, is working with architect Simon Judd and former Rolling Stones set designer Jeff Meades to deliver the project.

A 1930s speakeasy theme is planned, with two library-style lounge areas and a retro cinema. The spa will feature a swimming pool, jacuzzi, steam rooms, mud chambers and 10 treatment rooms.

Andy Davy, chairman of One Maidstone and manager of The Mall, said: "One Maidstone feels this development would deliver much-needed enhancement to the area. The proposal makes good use of disused and derelict properties but also brings something to Maidstone that is not currently available.

"We are satisfied that the development would be of high calibre and drive up footfall to the area."

Work would involve knocking down the derelict St Francis' School building and replacing it with a new building. Money would be donated to St Francis' Church to build a new hall.

The proposal will be discussed by Maidstone Borough Council over the next few months, before a decision is made. If approved, construction is expected to take 18 months.

View and comment on the application here.