A prominent building on a busy route into Ramsgate is to be flattened to make way for state-of-the-art offices for an amusements firm.

Lord of the Manor, on Canterbury Road East, is a familiar sight to people travelling in and out of Thanet on the A299 - it was previously a pub, then a residential property with stables, and in recent years has been only partially occupied.

Since 1993 it has been the focus of several planning proposals including one for a lorry and car park, visitor and "archaeological interpretation centre" as well as a car wash, both of which were refused by Thanet council.

But the building, named after Marquis Conyngham - the Lord of the Manor - who owned the land in the 18th century, is now due to be demolished to make way for offices and storage space for Ivor Thomas Amusements.

The company, which hires out fruit machines and gaming equipment to pubs and clubs across the South East, is based in Grange Road in Ramsgate but it has outgrown the premises.

Boss Paul Thomas drafted in architect firm Guy Hollaway to draw up a contemporary design for a new headquarters, including a two-bed flat for a caretaker, and the plan has now been approved by Thanet council.

In a planning statement, consultant Hobbs Parker, on behalf of Mr Parker, says Ivor Thomas Amusements, which opened in 1976, needs a location which is easily accessible and due to the nature of the business, with its frequent delivery and pick-up of machinery, is better away from a residential area.

The need for security, due to stock being stored there, is also being made possible with the caretaker flat.

In a statement to the council, the firm said: "The redevelopment of the site makes the most efficient use of a previously developed brownfield site, which has deteriorated over time.

"The site is well located to the highway network, in a sustainable location which is well-placed to serve Thanet, Kent and the South East.

"The proposal is a perfect fit for this vacant site - a viable commercial use."

Guy Hollaway Architects, which is behind a number of major developments in the county, says the Lord of the Manor site is ideally positioned for Ivor Thomas Amusements.

"The new development will allow the business to sustainably grow and at the same time to remain locally based.

"The shape and location of the proposed building was influenced by a number of external factors, mainly providing a buffer to the road frontages and maximising far-reaching views towards the sea.

"The simple, organic shape sits comfortably on this isolated site and the proposed materials helps soften and reduce even further the impact of the building."

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