An online petition has been drawn up to save the former Sittingbourne Magistrates’ Court from demolition.

A total of 175 people have added their name to the appeal, which aims to prevent a building “of character being lost” to the town.

The old courthouse, which stands at the corner of Park Road, was bought by Bailey Partners Investment in December. Plans have been submitted to knock it down and build eight houses and two flats.

The petition site says: “We call on Swale council to do everything within their power to preserve the Sittingbourne Magistrates’ Court building and demand that developers maintain the current look of the building rather than demolish it to clear the site.”

Former Mayor of Swale, Peter Morgan, a leading voice in the anti-demolition campaign, said: “I didn't initiate this petition, but I’m so pleased many people have taken up the baton. I would urge as many people to sign it as possible.”

See www.ipetitions.com/petition/save-sittingbourne-magistrates-court