A CAR park is facing demolition after a piece of masonry fell from a supporting column and struck a car.

Westgate Car Park in Kent Road, Dartford, was closed immediately following the incident on August 19.

Over the last six weeks, Dartford Council has commissioned an independent consultant structural engineer to undertake a full survey of the car park structure.

The report has concluded that the multi-storey 555-space car park is now beyond economical repair and should be demolished.

Tenders are now being sought for the demolition job and the council will then arrange for parking facilities to be restored on the site.

Council leader Councillor Jeremy Kite said: “Our key priority has always been safety of local people and car park users.

“It’s clear from the report that we did exactly the right thing by closing Westgate promptly.

“It’s disappointing to face the costs of demolishing the facility but it does give us the opportunity to provide a new car park which is safer and more modern.

“Helping local shops by providing good parking facilities is my key priority.”

For other council-run car parks call parking services on 01322 343434 or visit visit dartford.gov.uk/parking