THE race is on to save Swaylands Estate, in Penshurst, once an important private house and estate and latterly a boys' residential home. The property has lain empty and decaying for more than seven years and a report suggests it could be lost in only a few years without attention.

Geoff Everard, a chartered surveyor, has recently concluded that the building - which dates back to the 18th century - will have deteriorated to such an extent that it will effectively be a shell. If this were to be allowed to happen restoration would no longer be possible.

Mr Everard, who is based in Maidstone, has been involved with Swaylands since the site was acquired by Honeygrove Properties and he says: "There is little doubt in my mind that at the present rate of decay, the building will soon be beyond economic repair. It is my opinion that if the current rate of decay is not halted and this would mean significant removal and repair of the existing structure, the point at which repairs no longer become viable will be reached quite soon."

Honeygrove has recently submitted plans to Sevenoaks District Council to prevent this from happening. The company proposes to carry out an extensive restoration, conservation and construction project in the form of a low-density residential luxury housing scheme. The proposals have been the subject of much discussion with English Heritage, the Garden History Society and the Victorian Society. Part of the proposals include a conservation management scheme that will manage the estate for future generations.

Honeygrove can be contacted on 01732 700888.