Controversial plans to revitalise a rundown part of a historic town and improve a dangerous road junction are set to be approved - despite objections from conservationists.

The scheme to build 296 flats in four blocks near Star Hill in Rochester has been back to the drawing board several times over the years.

Plans have now significantly downsized, but concerns that it will impact views of landmarks and buildings such as the cathedral and castle remain.

Permission had initially been granted for 374 homes in the area previously known as Bardell Wharf, now renamed Ironmonger Yard. It has been reworked to provide a 26% smaller development, more in keeping with the character of the surroundings.

Members of the City of Rochester Society are unhappy that it will “disrupt key views” and have criticised the design for being “bland” and “modernist” .

Concerns have been raised by Historic England that the stretch between Star Hill and Sun Pier in Chatham is on the edge of a key conservation area.

Rochester Independent College, which has taken over a neighbouring block for student accommodation, complained about the lack of parking spaces.

The re-worked plan comprises 199 one-bedroom and 97 two-bedroom apartments.

A public garden is proposed and transport experts have been engaged by the developers Donard Living to improve pedestrian safety between the High Street and the Chatham Intra section.

By narrowing the highway, it is thought it will be possible to create a new four-way crossing point at the busy junction.

In the past the substantial brownfield site, which has remained derelict for decades, was home to the now defunct Bourne and Hillier dairy along with a collection of warehouse and industrial buildings.

According to Belfast-based Donard Living, Ironmonger Yard will provide a sustainable “urban centre solution” to help Medway meet its significant need for new homes in an area with a lack of deliverable land.

Its promotional literature said: “Landscaping will open up the area, offering high-quality public realm with low-level planting and urban trees, including a pedestrian link between the historic High Street and the emerging residential development of Rochester Riverside.”

The scheme is expected to be given the go-ahead at Medway Council’s planning meeting on Wednesday (November 20).