More than 150 landmarks in a borough have made it onto a new list of important heritage sites.

For the first time, a comprehensive record of buildings, structures and green spaces across Swale has been published.

It is the result of a collaboration between the borough council and its residents.

The authority asked people to suggest places to be included and more than 300 nominations were received.

In Sittingbourne, the art deco New Century Cinema building on the High Street and the Wesleyan Methodist Chapel, which dates back to 1862, have been included.

Also on the list is a First World War pillbox near Bobbing, which formed an important part of the local defence network, and the Hartlip Endowed C of E Primary School which is believed to be one of the oldest existing voluntary aided schools in the country founded in 1678.

Sheerness' Victorian water tower in Trinity Road, currently on the market for £500,000, and the Bethel Congregational Church, established in 1801, have also met the criteria.

Initial nominations were assessed and the council considered their age and integrity, as well as their historic and architectural interest, with a particular local emphasis.

The Pavilion Building, which serves as an information centre on the Island, an Arts Award centre and a community radio station, has also received recognition.

Faversham’s pool, the post office – with its unique copper roofing – and the Edwardian red brick-built police station are recognised as being amongst the town’s important landmarks.

Finally, the remains of the entry to the Oare Gunpowder Works, now a country park, have been added.

They have all been given the status of a non-designated heritage asset, which means their conservation must be seen as a material consideration in any future planning applications.

Heritage champion Cllr Mike Baldock said the list highlighted the positive contribution they make to the unique and special character of Swale.

He added: “We are fortunate to live in a borough that boasts a unique combination of historically and architecturally important buildings, landmarks and green spaces.

“They might not reach the nationally set benchmark for Grade I or II listing, but they have special interest or value to our local area. These sites are integral to what makes Swale, Swale.

“We want to make sure we protect our diverse range of heritage assets and creating this list is a way for us to keep them safe from irresponsible and harmful development.

“Being on the list will not only be taken into account when considering planning applications but will also – for the first time – create an accurate record of our heritage assets.

“We are very grateful to our residents who have helped us make this list. We needed to hear from you what local sites are important to you and now we can formally recognise their importance to the borough.”