A bid to flatten a former nursery and build dozens of students flats has been given the go-ahead - despite residents branding the scheme "frightening".

Developer Cityscape wants to build the three-storey complex after demolishing the property - which is now used as a shared house - in Old Dover Road, Canterbury.

The company believes the project will provide "much-needed" accommodation for those attending one of the area's three universities.

But locals have criticised the plans, amid claims the city is already "awash with student accommodation".

Oaten Hill and South Canterbury Association spokesman David Kemsley told KentOnline: “The place is currently an eyesore.

“There’s no doubting it needs developing, but residents have told me the planned building is too big and not sensitive to the area.

“We’re awash with student accommodation, and my understanding is student numbers are gradually declining.

“I’m amazed they are still wanting to pursue the development given the fact we’ve got student accommodation going up all over the place.”

Meanwhile, architect Tim Carlyle, who is also a member of the Oaten Hill group, says the frontage for the yet-to-be-built block - which will house 27 one-bed flats - will be "bland and monstrous".

He believes the design of the structure has "produced a schizophrenic effect, where the rear and front are not compatible".

And John Andrews, whose home neighbours the site, also lodged an objection to the proposals, as he cited noise and parking concerns.

“The proximity of a communal games room mere feet from our garden and our children's rear-facing bedroom fills us with dread," he said.

“The prospect of up to 27 students - plus friends and acquaintances - partying and socialising noisily until late, just a few arm's lengths from our property is frightening.”

However, in papers lodged with the city council the developer insists the site is "ideally situated for student accommodation".

Despite conceding the number of 18-year-olds in the UK has recently dropped, the firm says "there be will be a significant increase" in the next couple of years.

"There is nothing to suggest student numbers will not increase again in the medium to long term," Cityscape argues.

"The transfer of students to purpose-built accommodation will free up houses in the private rented sector and that will contribute towards Canterbury City Council achieving its housing numbers.

"We’re awash with student accommodation, and my understanding is student numbers are gradually declining..."

"The site was formerly used as a children’s nursery and was most recently a shared house for the last 13 years.

"It is ideally situated for student accommodation. It will be a positive addition to the area, conserving and enhancing its character and appearance."

As they gave the project the green light, local authority planners noted the complex will "respect the rhythm and massing" of its surroundings.

The officials also said they were "satisfied the layout and design ensure the proposal has an acceptable impact upon the living conditions of" neighbours.

Two similar schemes were given the green light for the plot in 2013 and 2015.