Councillors have unanimously refused a controversial application for a development at Sheerness Docks.

Planners had recommended the scheme for approval but members of the Swale council planning committee voted against it last night.

The plan was put forward by George Demetriou, director of Dockyard Buildings.

The revised application included plans to restore and convert various properties within the yard into 23 residential units as well as building a new development of 40 flats with 76 parking bays and landscaping.

One of the most controversial aspects proved to be the idea of closing the existing vehicle and pedestrian access from Garrison Road to create a new access onto High Street, Blue Town, through the listed dockyard wall.

The proposal had attracted opposition from residents as well as local and national heritage groups.

• For the full story and reaction, see next week’s Sheerness Times Guardian.