A town centre car park is to close for a few weeks as part of proposals to transform the area.

Gravesend’s Market Square car park is to close temporarily from Monday for archaeological investigation works.

A number of excavations will happen across the site as part of the work needed ahead of the determination of a planning application for the redevelopment of the area.

An application has been submitted to the council to transform this part of town.

The digs are expected to be completed by mid to late May. The car park will be restored and reopened before a similar exercise takes place in neighbouring Horn Yard car park.

Gravesham council leader Cllr John Burden said: “Market Square and Horn Yard car parks are part of the area earmarked for the major regeneration of Gravesend town centre.

“Developers Reef Group, working in partnership with ourselves and our trading companies, have submitted a planning application for 242 residential apartments on the site of the car parks and these archaeological investigations are connected with that.

“However, the fact these works are taking place does not mean a decision on the application has already been made. On proposed major projects such as this, it is perfectly normal for developers to get ahead with discharging what they know will be pre-commencement conditions should permission be granted.

“The planning application is going through a thorough examination by our officers and will go before members for a decision in due course.”

While Market Square car park is closed, alternative parking is available in Horn Yard, West Street, St George’s, Rathmore Road, and Parrock Street car parks, which are all operating at well under capacity due to the current coronavirus restrictions.

Parking is free in all Gravesham council operated car parks while those restrictions are in place.

Cllr Burden added: “The contractors carrying out the work are clear that all those working on site will do so in accordance with all government and Public Health England regulations and guidelines covering construction work during the coronavirus restrictions.

“By carrying out the work now, we hope disruption will be minimised when the government does decide to start easing the measures in place and people start returning to the town centre.”

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