Proposals for the conversion of a 16th-century pub in Darenth are on the verge of a decision by Dartford Council.

In January 2023, Dartford-based Llamedos Properties first submitted its propositions to the council for The Ship, situated in Green Street, Green Road.

Plans by Llamedos Properties involve the partial demolition of existing extensions and the erection of a new single-storey extension, conversions, and house builds.

The company proposed to partially knock down the two extensions of the pub, remove all seven outbuildings and construct in their place a single-storey "garden room" extension.

Plans also involved turning the upper floor into two one-bedroom flats and building two five-bed homes with basements.

The Ship, having experienced various licence arrangements, officially closed in August 2019 and has remained vacant since.

This notable pub, styled with a mock-Tudor exterior, has since been neglected and has drawn the attention of fly-tippers and anti-social behaviour - according to Kent Online.

Original aspirations also contained a proposal for a three-bed bungalow, but this was withdrawn from the projected scheme to minimize building numbers.

Further components to the proposal included providing two car parking spaces for each new property and the addition of one for each flat, another for visitors, and three for the pub.

If approved, the foundations of the building are intended to remain as a public house, transforming into a "micropub".

Mixed opinions about the proposals have been shared via comments on the council’s website.

One comment says: “There is no reason why this building should not be run as before, ie by ie as a public house and restaurant serving the needs of the local community and passing traffic.

“We have surely seen enough pubs in the rural areas of Dartford disappear in recent years.

“The idea of a micropub is superficially attractive, but how long before the developers submit a further application deeming it unprofitable after failing to make a proper go of it?”

Another says: "I am in full support of this development, as the pub has been closed down for some time and is an eyesore. Any additional dwellings in the area is also a benefit.

“The area needs to be improved with investment into both residential and commercial buildings.”

One more comment from a neighbour says: “I believe the plans can only benefit the area and am concerned at the amount of time and money that has been spent while this is still with planning. The area continues to deteriorate, the surrounding areas has become popular with fly tippers.

“There have been break ins and people pulling over to do laughing gas.”