An investigation is underway to determine if Sandwich Historical Boatyard on the Quay is adhering to planning conditions.

The building, opened by The Lord Warden of the Cinque Ports Lord Boyce in June, is the result of three years of hard work and dedication by a not-for-profit trust led by Bob Martin and Bob Hill.

Its aim is to attract more tourists to Sandwich and give two young apprentices the chance to learn the traditional boat building trade.

But before this has begun, complaints that it is not medieval enough have prompted Dover District Council to investigate.

Council press officer Andy Steele confirmed this.

He said: “We are aware of this matter, and as a result we are currently investigating whether the planning conditions are being adhered to.”

Mr Martin, a former teacher and trustee of Sandwich Historical Boatyard Trust, said the original plan was to build something much more medieval to tie in with Sandwich’s history as an ancient cinque port.

The Mayor of Sandwich, Cllr Paul Graeme, said: “As far as I’m aware it was going to be a working boatyard with apprentices, with access to the public.

“The town council are certainly interested in whether the planning conditions are being met and legalities have taken place. We’re waiting to hear from Dover District Council and if necessary we will have discussions with Mr Hill.”