A proposal to breathe new life into an 18th Century pub "on the verge of decay" has been turned down.

The plans included adding a roof terrace, a neon sign and two holiday lets via a third floor to the former Shakespeare Hotel in Margate.

Developers claim the project would "restore the existing but derelict shell to its former glory as a high-quality pub with rooms", after being closed for six years.

But officers at Thanet District Council believe the development "appears incongruous and unduly prominent in long views within the Conservation Area" based on its scale and design.

The report said: "It's a design that fails to reflect or be sympathetic to the existing architectural rhythm and proportions of the building.

"It would also result in an unacceptable degree of mutual overlooking and loss of privacy to the neighbouring occupiers."

Developer Richard Hanson argues the renovation of the building on Canterbury Road would improve the appearance of the surrounding area.

Planning documents said: "The design and proposed materials will be of a high standard, whilst also being sympathetic to the existing architecture and the context of the site, with it being part of a conservation area.

"The proposed additions of this rundown building will improve the outlook of this area which is a crucial part of Margate’s seafront.

"For too long the building has been a missed amenity in a prominent part of Margate's seafront.

"There is the opportunity to bring a vacant building back into use, which will bring added value to Margate, whilst protecting and enhancing the history of The Shakespeare and this area of town."

The Inn is thought to date back to 1760, and was originally known as The British Tar.

The new revamp would have included two holiday lets on a brand-new floor, with "expansive views of the Margate seascape and breath-taking sunsets".

Mr Hanson wished to add a roof terrace made from slatted steelwork and accessed by a pair of French doors.