A glamping site described as "quirky" by supporters will operate for up to seven months a year - despite fears it would spark parking "pandemonium".

Brook Farm in Denstroude Lane, between Canterbury and Faversham, had been running under a temporary 56-day provision introduced by the government following lockdown.

Owner Jason Paton-Smith launched a bid two years ago to expand the operation by allowing it to welcome holidaymakers to the Dunkirk plot between March and September, and from December 1 to January 5.

And last Tuesday councillors voted to approve the plan, in the face of concerns the campsite will be "a disgusting abuse of agricultural land".

Neighbour Tim Harrison argued: "It's an assault to the senses when viewed from any angle with random structures, plastic rubbish, parked vehicles and poorly constructed roadways wandering randomly across the land.

"This is a stark contrast to the natural beauty of the surroundings."

Papers show Mr Paton-Smith will also extend the existing stable block to include an office, showers and toilets.

Liz Clark, who lives nearby, noted 13 cars parked by the side of the road when Arby's Café was located off the lane, causing "pandemonium".

Meanwhile in a letter written to the city council, resident Kam Mitchell accused Mr Paton-Smith of seeming "hellbent on destroying what is left of this reasonably unspoilt valley".

She added: "This is a disgusting abuse of agricultural land, especially given the placement with it being in such an environmentally sensitive area situated bang in the middle of nature reserves."

Documents state there will be no changes made to the capacity of the site, which accommodates people in a shepherd’s hut, up to five campers or caravans, and as many as 15 grass pitches.

The project gained the support of Swale Borough Council's economy and community services manager, Lyn Newton, who said it will provide an "unusual and quirky" place for visitors to stay.

The proposal divided locals, attracting 14 objections and 16 letters of support.

One of those who backed the scheme described the campsite as "a wonderful opportunity for the people who will come and enjoy the countryside and all it offers".

Mr Paton-Smith also told members of the council's planning committee last week: "We’ve been using composting toilets and showers, and have no outside lighting to prevent any disturbance to the surrounding wildlife.

“This will ensure we have a viable small business, providing local employment and in turn supporting the rural economy.”

Councillors overwhelmingly supported the plan, with Sturry Conservative Louise Harvey-Quirke calling it "a fantastic idea".

The politicians also dismissed the traffic worries, as Kent County Council’s highways department raised no concerns.

The application was unanimously supported by the committee.