Champagne on a rooftop bar, a hotel and apartments with river views - that is one councillor’s aspirational view for the future of Chatham.

Andrew Mackness shared his dreams as plans to transform a forgotten office block in the centre of the town were revealed this week.

Mountbatten House used to be home to companies such as Scottish Widows and Lloyds, but has stood almost empty for several years.

The building, which is described by Medway Council as a “key asset that is underused”, sits on top of the Pentagon Centre next to the bus station.

New owners, Ellandi, who also own the Pentagon Centre, would like to redevelop the 13-storey red brick building and their plan is expected to involve homes and other uses.

During Medway Council’s cabinet meeting yesterday, Cllr Mackness said he welcomed the plans and would like to see a roof top bar too.

Speaking after the meeting, the River ward councillor said: “Why not? Why would we not have them when you’ve got the most wonderful view up there? There would clearly be a demand for it and people would use it.

“We need to be far more aspirational, far more ambitious and focus on the positives. If Manchester can have it’s Hilton Sky Bar, why can’t Medway have theirs?”

He also said he would also like to see a hotel on a few of the floors as well as housing.

In December 2015, the lease for both premises was taken over by Ellandi who own 29 community shopping centres across the country.

According to the company’s website, they are planning to refurbish the Penatgon Centre which has “exciting prospects” for redevelopment including a large food store, major space units and leisure facilities.

The centre currently has 330,000 sq ft of retail space on two levels with a 430 space car park.

In order for the potential development to take place, the head lease of the centre has to either be varied or surrendered/renewed by Medway Council, who own the freehold.

Councillors agreed to enter into negotiations with Ellandi at yesterday's meeting.