Plans to open a new fast food restaurant at a shopping centre have been given the green light.

German Doner Kebab (GDK) will open at Hempstead Valley Shopping Centre in Gillingham.

The 103 sq m diner will replace the former Santander bank branch - which closed its doors in June 2021.

Proposals were first submitted to Medway Council last month for new signage and logo displays to be put up at the site.

The plans have now been approved by planning officials.

Information released by the application's case officer says: "The proposed change of use from financial services to a mixed-use restaurant and takeaway would not cause harm to the overall character and appearance of the wider area.

"Likewise, there would be no detrimental impacts in terms of neighbourhood amenity and highways safety.

"Additionally, there is no objection to the principle of businesses occupying otherwise vacant units at the shopping centre.

"The wider area surrounding the application site is predominantly commercial, and there are a number of restaurants and takeaways within Hempstead Valley that provide a precedent for this type of development.

"The proposal would not include any external alterations to the property."

GDK will be outside and at the East Mall entrance to the shopping centre - next to retailer Body Glow.

It will be open from 10am until 11pm from Monday to Sunday, including on bank holidays.

GDK insist they sell "game-changing" gourmet kebabs, as well as menu items including their OG kebab, doner wrap, veggie kebab and Doritos doner krunch burger.

The brand has more than 100 stores in the UK, and offers dine-in and takeaway from its Kent restaurants in Bromley, Bexley, Canterbury, Dover, Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells.

An opening date has yet to be revealed, although the restaurant is required to be built within the next three years.