Residents have been warned to brace for a “fairly sizeable planning application” on land being offered for sale as a development site.

Cllr Neil Baker (Con) says many locals are already asking questions about what may be proposed at the presbytery (a house used by a priest from the Catholic faith) in 37 Kingsdown Park, Tankerton.

Bidwells is advertising the freehold of the 0.6-acre site with a residential development opportunity.

Its website states there is potential to refurbish the existing building or develop six detached houses on the site “based on an initial assessment with opportunity for further massing”.

Cllr Baker wrote: “With the presbytery in Kingsdown Park being offered for sale as a development site, it’s likely a fairly sizeable planning application will be submitted sooner or later.

“Given the amount of land and its location, it comes as no surprise many are already asking questions about what may be proposed.

“While that’s not yet known, the more eyes and ears that are on this, the more chance of any future proposal being something that might be more palatable than what the concerns it might be.

“After all, there have been some pretty dramatic planning applications lately in the area, including some still being considered.”

Cllr Baker says all the trees on the site are subject to the Kingsdown Park Tree Preservation Order, “so cannot just be removed”.

But he added: “A concern I share with many people I have already spoken to is the impact of any development on what is already a problematic, five-way junction.

“At the very least, it can’t be allowed to be made worse and, ideally, consideration should be given to seeking development contributions to making things safer.

“At the moment, it’s literally a case of watch this space, but I will be ensuring both the city council’s planning department and Kent Highways give any subsequent planning application detailed and comprehensive consideration so the highest quality development possible - be it design, road safety or ecologically - is achieved.”

Bidwells has invited unconditional offers. In the brochure for the site, the property consultants highlight how new-build properties in Whitstable can achieve in excess of £800 per sq ft “for a premium finish and position”, giving a £850,000 three-bed penthouse in Fitzroy Road as an example.

The advert for 37 Kingsdown Park can be viewed here.