An empty Creams dessert restaurant could be turned into a 20-bedroom HMO property.

Plans have been submitted to convert the Maidstone town centre site, which has been closed for years, into a house in multiple occupation (HMO).

If approved, the building on the junction of King Street and Church Street will see a smaller Creams return, as well as private accommodation for at least 20 people.

There would also be communal facilities, and bin and bike storage.

A design statement from the applicant Velani Corporation, which owns the building, said there is a “clear need and very high demand for such accommodation”.

It added: “The property was a bar/public house then was occupied by the Creams restaurant.

“This unfortunately did not prove commercially successful, in part due to its extensive floorspace which exceeded demand.

“It has been concluded that a much smaller Creams restaurant at the key corner ground floor frontage likely could be successful, and this is the intention - with that part of the building being retained for its established use.

“The remainder of the ground floor would be a part of the HMO proposal, including the entrance, lobby, cycle store, etc.

“The first floor would be dedicated to the proposed use – with bedrooms and extensive communal space.

“An additional mansard storey would be added, to provide further bedroom accommodation and further communal space.”

The applicant said the “underused” site will be ideal for “young people who are struggling in an inflated housing market who often may be living at home with mum and dad”, or people in poor-quality house shares.

If given the green light it says it would also be suitable for divorcees or older people who wish to downsize.

A planning document adds: “The previous, established Creams restaurant use would be retained for much of the ground storey, including at the prime corner frontage.”

To view the plans, visit the Maidstone planning portal and enter the reference 24/501639/FULL.

To see more planning applications and other public notices for your area, click here.

The building was put on the market for £1m in May last year when it was described as having “development potential for a mixed-use scheme or change of use”.

Kent Police was asked for its views on the development and raised a number of concerns.

It said it advised against including a parking lot as they can “create an opportunity for crime”, but if this is unavoidable it must be covered by “natural surveillance”.

The authorities also said any new trees should protect and enhance security without reducing surveillance opportunities. Effective lighting and CCTV should also be installed if approved.

Guidance from the police added: “Bedroom windows on the ground floor require a defensive treatment to deflect loitering, especially second bedrooms often used by children.”