Residents in Sandwich have expressed concern that the Guildhall Forecourt cobbles could vanish under asphalt.

The idea to cover the historic-looking cobbles outside the town hall has not been welcomed by residents who posted their reaction on Facebook.

Among more than 32 comments was Sue Wallis, who said: “What on earth for? It would ruin the character, surely?”

Other comments said that if this happened then the Barbican might as well be turned into a McDonald’s drive-thru.

Those who commented on the post were advised to make their complaints to the town clerk.

"It would ruin the character" Sue Wallis, Sandwich resident

Laura Fidler, Sandwich town clerk, confirmed this idea has been suggested by Cllr Jeff Sneller and Cllr Joe Trussler, from Sandwich Town Council.

She explained that the cobbles are becoming damaged with the number of vehicles, buses and events on the Guildhall Forecourt.

She said: “The cobbles are becoming loose and could be a danger. At the moment there are ad-hoc repairs but councillors think this could be a more long-term solution.”

She also explained that rather than the cobbles being a historic feature of the forecourt, they were actually placed there during the 1970s.

The town clerk assured the Mercury and residents that no decision has been made yet.

It will be discussed at the next town council meeting on September 15.