A run-down historic building unlawfully turned into bedsits is to be transformed into a 'high-end' hotel.

Planners at Thanet District Council nodded though the plans for the venture in Market Place in Margate, which is also home to the Wig & Pen pub and Ralph's restaurant.

In documents submitted to the local authority, Archway Design Services, representing the building's owner, says the Old Market House has suffered due to "long-term abuse and neglect".

"It is in need of structural repair and full refurbishment to bring this historic asset back to its former glory," the firm says.

"It is proposed to bring the building back to a serviceable condition by creating a high-end, short stay hotel with features commiserate to its age, history and status as a Grade II-listed building."

The historic property was originally a single dwelling and last given permission for use as three bedsits and one flat in 1989.

But planners at Thanet council state that at some time between 2011 and 2012 the building was converted into eight bedsits, which are small and in a poor condition.

It was then discovered the works had been carried out unlawfully and a change of use had never been authorised.

Archway Design Services says this current layout as individual units would not be an acceptable use of the property.

"Given the extent of the damage to the historic asset caused in the past there are few original features left," they add.

"The proposed plans (for a hotel) bring the property closer to a layout that would be considered as representable of the original building, especially as the building must be usable and contain suitable facilities for modern day living.

"Returning to a simpler layout, keeping the rooms as large as possible whilst accommodating the desired facilities required for a high-end hotel can therefore be considered as enhancing the listed building in a conservation area to the benefit of the public."

Thanet council's planning team says the proposed use within Margate Old Town is encouraged and that the development would not result in harm to the character or appearance of the Margate Conservation Area or the residential amenities of nearby properties.