Plans to replace draughty windows that “rattle, howl and shake” in the wind have sparked outrage among residents of an iconic tower block.

Some 150 letters of objection have been lodged against the proposals for Arlington House in Margate.

The management company that runs the 18-storey building wants to remove the original 1960s sliding windows and install “tilt and turn” ones with thicker frames.

Freshwater has submitted plans to Thanet District Council (TDC) for all 142 flats to have double-glazing in order to better retain heat.

But opponents claim the new windows will damage the aesthetic of the block, which is a classic example of Brutalist architecture.

One resident even claims he will try to electrocute anyone who tries to replace his windows.

Simon Pengelly, who has lived in the block for 14 years, told KentOnline: “To replace them with tilt and turn would give a totally bizarre appearance from the outside, totally out of character with the design of the building.

“It would give it different reflections from all different angles.”

A tilt-and-turn window is built as one panel which leans in or out from the rest of the frame.

In planning documents, Freshwater says these will be safer than the current design.

But Mr Pengelly, 75, added: “My windows will not be replaced. I will connect live mains to them if they try.

“They will not change these windows. So at least one flat will look different to the rest anyway.”

The pensioner recognises that the building, built in 1963 and owned by TDC, can get chilly, but suggests those complaining about the cost of heating should wear extra layers.

“It was built in the 1960s when you wore things to keep yourself warm,” he said.

“If you want to heat it like a furnace so you can go around in a t-shirt, then that will cost you.

“You could put in secondary glazing and that would have exactly the same effect as replacing the windows in terms of heat.”

Plans were first put forward for the scheme a year ago and subsequently amended several times, with Freshwater saying the building has fallen into disrepair.

They hinted at a more comprehensive revamp of the iconic tower block, saying: “The window replacement forms part of a wider repair and refurbishment scheme which when completed will help restore the prominent landmark building.”

The documents state: “The replacement windows aim to match the existing as closely as possible whilst still complying with modern regulations and standards.

“Inevitably the frame will be thicker as the windows have double-glazed units.”

Not all residents are against the plans. Lyndon Brand says it’s about time the windows are replaced as the current ones are “in disrepair”.

The 60-year-old retired ambulance worker said: “None of them fit properly and they're all draughty. The wind howls through them.

“They're just terrible. They rattle and shake.”

Mr Brand’s windows are slightly different to the sliding aluminium ones in other flats, as he is on the first floor.

However, he still finds issues with the cold coming in.

The Arlington House resident of 24 years added: “There are many windows in the block that have had seagull strikes and cracked.

“In the summer, the heat distorts the frames and cracks the glass.

“The slightly thicker frames are a small price to pay. You wouldn’t notice it.”

Matthew Murphy has lived in the building for two years and says the cost of heating his rented flat is astronomical due to the old windows.

The 37-year-old explained: “It can get seriously cold here in the winter.

“I have a storage heater but I don't use it - it's just way too expensive.

“I think, personally, I would take the hit in terms of the tilting style in order to get the double glazing with the windows.

“It's just too cold. Almost to a point where I'm sitting, thinking, is this legal?

“I should be able to heat my home without paying £2.50 an hour for an electric heater.”

However, the graphic designer can see why others may be against the idea, noting: “I'm sympathetic to the people that have paid a lot of money for a unique flat with unique windows that can afford to heat their homes and lose a lot of the heat out of the window.”

The planning application has received 150 letters of objection.

Most of those against the plan worry the windows will be out of character and not as safe as the current design.

In planning documents, Freshwater’s agent HJP addressed these concerns.

It said: “We are aware of the various objections and comments made by the residents of Arlington House.

“The tilt and turn windows are safer than sliding windows due to the fact they do not open fully on tilt function compared to sliding windows, so there is less chance that anyone or anything is possible to fall out.

“The objections also stated they are not safe in high winds.

“This is incorrect, with tilt and turn windows being designed for and being used in many modern tall buildings.

“Another common objection is regarding the heritage and legacy of the building and change the fenestration of the building.

“Whilst this proposal is removing the existing windows, the difference between the existing and new windows is minimal, with the new windows having slightly thicker frames.

“We do not believe this will change the heritage and legacy of the building.”

Furthermore, they noted residents are concerned that they will be losing space in their flats.

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“This is incorrect, as although these proposed windows are thicker, this is de minimis.” documents state.

“This will be unnoticeable for the most part and will not be causing them to lose floor space.”

Freshwater has been contacted for further comment.