A London developer’s divisive bid to build a seven-storey block of flats likened to Canary Wharf is back on the table.

David Andrew has successfully launched an appeal after his plans for 52 flats and 10 parking spaces in Dover were thrown out by the district council.

The scheme was snubbed last May after neighbours argued the proposed site was out of keeping with the area, with one likening the block to a part of London’s business district.

But the proposals have, in part, been revived recently after the Secretary of State wrote to Dover District Council (DDC) stating Mr Andrew’s “appeal is valid”.

The grounds on which the planning appeal was lodged are currently unclear.

But the government body says it is “now waiting for a suitable planning inspector to become available” and a “site visit or hearing will take place”.

Last year, the proposals offered only 10 parking spaces when neighbours said the wider estate it would be in, Clarendon and Westbury, was already overcrowded with parked cars.

The application was made last February and resident Matthew Vine, of nearby Clarendon Street, then said: “We do not need a tower block. This is Clarendon, not Canary Wharf.

"And a proposal for 52 flats requiring only 10 parking spots is fantasy land."

All 43 residents making comments on DDC’s planning portal objected to the development, with council officers rejecting the scheme last May.

They felt the scale, form and design of the block appeared to be dominant, not in keeping with the area and not visually attractive.

They also feared it would overlook neighbouring properties, resulting in a loss of privacy.

Mr Andrew argued that most of the new tenants would not need cars because of the flats’ proximity to public transport and the town centre. Dover Priory Station is just a few minutes’ walk away.

All representations concerning the appeal must be made before March 4 and they should quote reference number 23/00145.

To make comments, or modify/withdraw your previous representation, you can do so online at https://acp.planninginspectorate.gov.uk .

Otherwise write to Planning Inspectorate at Temple Quay House, 2 The Square, Temple Quay, Bristol BS1 6PN,