Work has begun to transform a former brickworks into a new housing and industrial development.

The Hammill Park site near Sandwich will become 19 homes and 24 light industrial units.

Originally the site of the Woodnesborough Colliery, the the Hammill Brick Company was formed in 1926 and in its heyday produced 180,000 bricks a week.

However the Hammill Brickworks closed in 2008.

It was connected to the East Kent Light Railway, which transported coal to the site.

The locomotive sheds still exist today and will be converted into six live and work units as part of the development by Quinn Estates and Hammill Properties.

The 24 light industrial units will provide 2,352sqm of commercial floor space.

Dover District Council leader Cllr Paul Watkins said: “It brings back into use a brown field site that combines both commercial units and new family homes.

“The site is well positioned to attract new businesses and families looking to relocate to enjoy the unique benefits of coast and countryside that the Dover District can offer.”

Quinn Estates director Mark Quinn said: “Quinn Estates would like to thank Dover District Council’s Regeneration team for their help with this scheme and look forward to working with Dover District Council to create an exemplar regeneration project that will deliver high quality housing and a much needed boost to the rural economy in terms of new jobs.”