Residents in Sandwich have expressed concerns that opening up the tower at St Peter’s church to the public could breach their privacy.

Dr Chris and Carol Adlam, of the High Street, addressed Sandwich town councillors at a meeting.

Plans to open up the tower as a viewing platform has been proposed by the Churches Conservation Trust to try to draw in more tourists.

The couple claim this would mean visitors would be overlooking their home.

Mrs Adlam said: “At present we have a beautiful, private walled garden but if plans for the tower go ahead our house and garden will be totally exposed to one side of the viewing area.

“We’re not the only people affected but we are the worst affected.

“We stand to lose our privacy and worry about issues of security for ourselves and grandchildren playing in our garden.”

She said she would like to see the plans rejected or at the very least restricted so it does not impact on residents.

The plans also include new balustrading and floor decking, an outbuilding to accommodate toilet and storage facilities in the garden and the re-opening of the historic doorway.

Cllr Paul Carter called the proposal “wonderful” and fully supported the venture. This was also echoed by the rest of the council.

He said: “It would be nice to see St Peter’s actually used for people and tourism and have toilet facilities.

“We’re not the only people affected but we are the worst affected" - Carol Adlam

“I would take into consideration Dr and Mrs Adlam’s views on this. I would strongly support this plan but with conditions that the view to the rear to the private houses are blocked off.”

He said this side of the tower would not be of interest to tourists anyway.

Sandwich Town Council will make this suggestion to Dover District Council which will then have the final say.

DDCs website has received lots of comments of support for the proposals from residents in Sandwich.