by Alan Watkins

awatkins@thekmgroup.co.uk

A former nuclear bunker is about to become a day care centre for the elderly.
A private company plans to put a glass roof over the top of the bunker, and turn it into a place for residents to relax.
It is included in proposals for turning the Municipal Buildings in Gillingham into a massive care home.
Charing Healthcare bought the complex from Medway Council after a successful bid thought to be in excess of £2 million.
They will replace the former planning offices known as the Pagoda with a two storey building housing 32 residents.
It will be built alongside the former Gillingham council offices which will become home for 148 residents.
The entrance to the bunker stands in the former staff car park.
It was built during the Cold War as a place to maintain services in the event of a nuclear attack.
Links to other councils and government offices were by telex and a private phone system, but was never used for any emergencies. It eventually became a store for the council’s election material.
Charing Healthcare proposes to remove the bunker’s roof, put in modern toilets and turn the area into a day centre with offices and a glass balcony at ground level.
The Municipal Buildings will retain its appearance but will be provided with a ridged roof.
The company says it intends to provide community areas for residents, including a physiotherapy suite, libraries, quadrangle, meeting areas and dining facilities.