Two dilapidated old shops in a town centre are set to be demolished to make way for a three-storey block of flats.

The former Varley Electrical business, in Chatham, is thought to be the only remaining weatherboarded property in the High Street.

In the past, planners have been reluctant to allow it to be destroyed because of its historic significance.

It is now Tulip Fruit and Veg, a Mediterranean produce outlet.

The neighbouring former AF Smith hardware store, which opened in 1906 and traded for more than 100 years, has remained unoccupied in recent years.

The architects behind the scheme earmarked for 302-308 High Street say the buildings are a fire hazard, weak in structure with rotting timbers and wall cracks.

In its submission documents, Simplicity Design UK says getting rid of them would be the best and safest option.

The plans include 18 self-contained apartments with a commercial unit, which could be a shop, restaurant or office on the ground floor.

There would also be 25 bicycle spaces but no car parking provision.

While in a conservation area, neither is listed and therefore is not subject to detailed planning regulations.

In its paperwork to Medway Council’s planning department, the designers say: “The council had an issue with the demolition of the building, and particularly the loss of the weatherboarding, however at one point or another, the weatherboarding was hidden by a large billboard that covered it up.

“Furthermore, the building is in such a bad condition that any extensions or alterations to the building would be impossible as the building is in no state to be used for anything else.”

Feedback from residents has shown concern that the area had deteriorated over the years and needed an immediate upgrade.

Varleys, thought to date back to the early 19th century, was home to one of the oldest surviving family businesses in the Towns, selling a range of products in-store and online.

• To see more planning applications and other public notices for your area, click here.

The adjoining property is more modern and Georgian, although no exact date can be found for its origins.

The application is due to be considered by the council’s planning committee.