An Italian restaurant voted one of the best in the country could be made bigger with a new extension at the back with views out to sea.

Owners of Posillipo in Broadstairs, Vincenzo Esposito and Espedito Tammaro, who opened the seaside dining spot almost 26 years ago, want to demolish the existing extension at the back, which is in need of repair, and replace it with a slightly larger area, with steps leading down to the outside decked area on the cliff top.

The restaurant in Albion Street, which was named fourth best in the country by godfather of Italian gastronomy Antonio Carluccio, was opened by the friends in 1994 and serves traditional Neapoletan cuisine.

In a planning statement, Mr Esposito's sets out the proposals in an application to Thanet District Council.

"The existing extension is in a poor state of repair," he said.

"The existing extension would be removed and the proposed extension would extend forward in line with the extension of the adjoining property Prezzos.

"The proposed demolition of the existing structure will allow the repair and refurbishment of the existing elevation and the 'open' structure of the proposed extension will allow the features of the existing building to be more visible."

He says while the "lightweight" aluminium construction would not emulate the character of the Grade II listed building, it would be characteristic of the use of the building and others within the area.

The back area of the restaurant would be increased by an additional 12 square metres.

Mr Esposito and Mr Tammaro also have Posillipo restaurants in Faversham and Canterbury.

To see the full plans click here.

Read more:All the latest news from Thanet