A bid to flatten a car restoration workshop and build a row of houses has been approved despite fears the project will be a "disaster".

Developer George Bowra believes his vision for the Westcliff Works site in Addington Place, Ramsgate, would create four "high-quality" three-bedroom homes.

Thanet District Council gave the scheme the green light earlier this month, after its planners noted the project "will not result in a significant impact" on neighbours.

This came after two objections were lodged urging the authority to refuse the proposals.

Resident Patricia Jones argued: "The plan to build the properties with off-street parking would be a disaster.

"Addington Place is a narrow back lane, unsuitable for a steady flow of traffic.

"The properties that back onto the route were built in the 1790s when cars didn't exist.

"The lane cannot be made wider, and it would cause many problems and disputes."

The Ramsgate Heritage and Design Forum also said its members had "concerns of over-development" in the area, noting this "could be a site for much-needed studio or live-work space".

In papers submitted to the local authority, Mr Bowra insisted his project would "complement the historic character" of the town.

Drawings show each of the properties will have one off-road parking space.

And district council officers noted they had "no highway safety concerns" about the scheme as the bays will be served by an existing access into the site, which is currently home to V Werks Bodyshop.

"The site is sustainably located, and there is no principle objection to the loss of the existing garage workshop use," they added.

"The proposed development are in keeping with the area and will not result in a significant impact upon neighbouring amenity.

"There are no highway safety concerns as the proposed parking spaces will be served via an existing access into the site."