Plans have been approved to redevelop an “unattractive” site in Rodmersham.

Industrial buildings are to be demolished at Oak Tree Farm to make way for two ‘live/work’ units, a traditional farmhouse and a barn.

For the past 40 years, the Bottles Lane premises has been used to manufacture and distribute fencing.

It is anticipated the new buildings, which will contain nine bedrooms in total and house business and workshop areas, will create a number of jobs.

The application was given the go ahead at a meeting of Swale council’s planning committee.

John Collins, who represents the applicant, a Mr D. Ferret, said the development would fit in well with the countrysides.

He said: “There has been a lot of work done in respect of this site – trying to find a future for it. The proposal, we believe, presents good quality buildings that will fit into the rural area.

“The most important factor is the landscape enhancements and there will not be huge vehicles going to the site on a frequent and regular basis.”

He praised the feedback given by local people, the local councillor and the parish.

He said: “They have spent time looking at the application documents and we have been pleased that in a large part it’s been very positive.”

A paddock has been earmarked for the rear of the property.

Rodmersham Parish Council raised no objection but, during the consultation, asked that an adequate sewerage system be put in place.

One resident opposed the plan over concerns the new buildings could lead to increased traffic in Bottles Lane.

In his report, area planning officer Graham Thomas said the development would remove “an unattractive haphazard collection of poorly designed and maintained buildings.”

Cllr Monique Bonney (Ind) who represents West Downs ward, said: “With much consultation with the parish and local residents, I think the whole community is pleased with what has been presented in terms of something they are happy to live with.”