Kent County Council (KCC) is considering running tours to attract more visitors to its historic County Hall HQ.

The authority is exploring putting on events, guided excursions and improving public access to the building, which is more than 100 years old and based near Maidstone East railway station.

Ongoing talks are taking place on the proposals.

KCC opposition leader, Cllr Anthony Hook (Lib Dem) has suggested guided tours be arranged using audio devices.

He said: “What makes me sad is that there is no visitor centre in County Hall, or a reason for residents, children and their parents to come in.

“I have been to the Houses of Parliament and buildings all over the world.

“It’s quite often you will have a visitor centre, shown around with an audio guide and talk about the history of the building.”

It comes as KCC looks to explore alternative uses for parts of the building, in County Road, and how to better use its estate in the future.

Some parts are being marketed to be let or for sale, however two blocks, including the council chamber, are expected to remain.

On County Hall’s future, a KCC spokesman added: “County Hall has been the home of KCC since 1888 and has served the authority well.

“Plans for the future are still subject to formal decision, but it’s hoped will include retaining a County Hall civic campus within the County Town of Kent, and creating a constructive and sustainable heritage asset, which will be a space and place for everyone in the county to benefit from in the future.”