Plans for a new secondary school previously deferred by Maidstone Borough Council will be subject to a public inquiry later this year.

Valley Invicta Academies Trust had hoped to open Maidstone School of Science and Technology in September this year, but delays in gaining planning approval have seen those hopes dashed.

Following a deferral, the trust launched an appeal in October to "take the matter out of the council's hands," according to co-CEO of the trust, Vic Ashdown.

The appeal meant secretary of state for housing, communities and local Government Sajid Javid will have the final say on the site, based just off New Cut Road.

A public inquiry into the school's future has been scheduled for May 21 and could last up to six days.

Valley Invicta Academies Trust hopes the school will in September 2019.