A scheme to convert the first and second floors of a former pub into a house of multiple occupancy (HMO) has been given the green light.

Charity Al-Haqq Academy submitted plans to convert the existing four-bedroom flat of The Peacock in Peacock Street, Gravesend, into a five-bedroom HMO with two bathrooms and a kitchen.

The organisation, based in nearby Queen Street, is a charity which offers services such as a food bank, counselling, prayer sessions, and a youth club for everyone and hopes to change the use of The Peacock pub area into a religious academy with community services.

The flats proposal for the upper floors was discussed at a planning meeting yesterday (Wednesday, September 25) at the Civic Centre, in Windmill Street, Gravesend, and was approved subject to conditions including a sound insulation test on the building and confirmation of what the bin area for the property will look like and include.

The plans had overwhelming support with 26 letters of support suggesting the flats would help the charity/proposed mosque be more sustainable and self-sufficient, would offer a great solution to the housing problem and provide a more affordable housing option.

Two letters of objection claimed parking is already limited in the area and this could add to the problem. Other concerns included fears the historical landmark could lose its local design and rich history, and an increase in anti-social behaviour which is already an issue.

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A decision is yet to be made on the religious academy plans for the ground floor and basement.