A plan to build a 56-room hotel on a Victorian estate has been given the go ahead despite concerns from neighbours it will compound noise issues.

Tunbridge Wells councillors voted in favour of tearing down existing 1970s accommodation blocks on the Salomons Estate in Southborough and replacing them with a building three times the size.

At a planning meeting tonight the committee heard how residents had been plagued by explosions, gun fire and music emanating from the 36 acres of grounds off Broomhill Road.

People living in neighbouring Speldhurst Road spoke of their battle against Markerstudy Group – who own the site and operate a number of events there, including 'hazardous environment training' and last year's controversial Father Christmas World.

They said complaints had not been dealt with by council environment officers and the development of a larger hotel would likely make events of this nature more frequent.

On-site accommodation is currently limited to 47 single and double rooms which cater for people attending training courses and events at the estate.

Councillor Godfrey Bland said it was clear the estate had not been the best neighbour and expressed regret the committee's "hands were tied" as to what they could discuss.

He said: "Officers have a duty to deal with complaints expeditiously."

Other concerns were raised over the increase in construction traffic, with Rusthall Parish Council objecting to the proposal for that reason.

The hotel will provide en-suite, double bedrooms, a restaurant and bar across three floors - two of which would be below ground to comply with height limitations.

A traditional kitchen garden would also be built.

Councillors ruled the replacement of the current unattractive blocks by a glazed building bearing similarities to a 19th century glass house which once occupied the site was a positive thing for the area.

Thirteen members voted in favour, with none objecting and two abstaining. The decision had been deferred at a previous meeting.