A prominent pub on the Isle of Sheppey dating back to the 1860s could be knocked down and turned into flats if plans are approved.

An application sent to Swale council outlines proposals for The Old House at Home in Sheerness High Street, which is at least 150 years-old.

If given the green light it would see the venue demolished and replaced with a three and four storey building with commercial space on the ground floor.

The applicants explained the pub, which was permanently closed last summer, “has had a change of landlord at least five times in the last eight to 10 years”.

Planning documents said the pub had repeatedly come to the attention of the authorities due to “anti-social behaviour, substance abuse and numerous other infringements of the licensing regulations.”

It continued: “There has been a gradual decline in the number of pubs in Sheerness partly due to a shift in culture, the introduction of national chains such as Wetherspoons and a move away from Sheerness’ association as a naval town.”

The plans for the redevelopment include five one-bedroom and seven two-bedroom flats.

The site would also have six parking spaces for cars and 12 for bicycles. There would be four apartments on each floor.

However, Sheerness Town Council chairman Matthew Brown says he is completely against the scheme.

He said: “I would be strongly opposed to the destruction of this landmark building as it goes against the town’s character and long term aims.

“It’s become a bit of an eyesore in this area but there needs to be a very strong argument put forward before any consideration is given to demolishing a building with so much character.”

To view the application visit click here with reference 21/500204/FULL

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