An application to demolish the former Lord Nelson pub in Broadstairs and build a block of six apartments in its place has been rejected by Thanet council.
Sequest Properties Ltd lodged the application in February.
The Lord Nelson pub shut in 2014. The same year an application was made to retain the existing three-storey building and alter and extend the single and two storey structures. The proposal involved converting the existing building to two duplex apartments. The application also proposed extending the building over three floors to include a three storey, two bedroom dwelling with courtyard garden, a two storey two bedroom duplex and a two bedroom apartment.
This application was refused by Thanet council but subsequently allowed on appeal.
The latest application says the building is structurally unsound and requests permission to flatten the former pub to make way for a ‘bespoke’ new build.
The applicant adds: “The ethos of the new layout is very much to protect and add to the quirkiness of the built form in this area that has been identified as one of its main strengths.
“In many ways this proposal can be compared to the extension and remodelling of the Rose Public House in Albion Street Broadstairs, implemented by the same architects for the same client. In that development the implemented proposal has introduced an exciting and high quality new development into a historic street in a form that complements and adds to the character of the Conservation Area.
“That development maintains the form and character of the existing building, but introduces modern, high quality materials and features that are a positive enhancement, this proposal will achieve the same positive benefits to Nelson Place.”
But Thanet council has refused permission for the development saying the authority has a duty to preserve the conservation area that the site lies within.
The decision notice adds: “The proposal involves the demolition of a building and boundary wall incorporating architectural features and materials which add interest and variety to the built form and pattern of development within the street.”
Thanet council also say the development would be obtrusive and result in overlooking into a private garden.
