Flats which have been sitting empty for a decade and targeted by vandals have been refurbished in a bid to deter anti-social behaviour.

The council-funded project, which cost just shy of half a million pounds, has seen two properties at Court Wurtin in South Ashford revamped to improve a "suffering" site.

The homes are located above the One Stop in the shopping parade off Beaver Lane, which was the previous leaseholder.

The properties have sat vacant for 10 years and become a target for vandals, making them an unattractive proposition for would-be developers.

The flats were later taken on by Ashford Borough Council (ABC) and work, which was delayed due to the pandemic, began in 2023 on the overhaul.

ABC bosses were aiming to secure the stairwells, create a bin store for unsightly rubbish and improve the surrounding area to uplift the feel of the site.

At the time of the work being announced, chiefs at ABC said the focus of the project was getting the “dilapidated flats” back in use, countering any perception of anti-social behaviour and working to improve the landscaping, pavements and overall appearance of the building.

The project was expected to cost £310,000 but ended up costing £482,300 due to the state of the homes, which were described as “uninhabitable” by council bosses.

This included internal repairs and maintenance, external insulation to get an energy rating minimum of ‘C’, making the below shop water and weather-tight, as well as other external treatments.

The staircase was also improved and roof leaks and rainwater pipes were repaired. Similarly, while staff were working, there were opportunities to make improvements to the flats ABC has next door; mainly external and they have a freehold as well on the next property which has meant the external insulation extends beyond the first two flats and insulting a further two.

Cllr Bill Barrett (Ind) portfolio holder for housing and homelessness, said: “These major improvements have always been a priority for me after working last year to get the car park re-surfaced alongside ward member Cllr Lyn Suddards.

“We really wanted to see the site refurbished and brought up to a decent standard for local residents which will not just make it more aesthetically pleasing, but will hopefully reduce anti-social behaviour which has been a problem in the past.”

A council spokesperson added: “The aim is to regenerate the area we have influence over (own), hopefully, builds upon the facilities the locals use and depend upon there and uplifts the area so we can all feel proud.

“There are still other property owners within the Court Wurtin block who may follow our lead or feel there is an opportunity to improve their property because of our activities and potential increase in value.”

It is anticipated that the flats will be let this summer.